The best punk albums of 2024
The best punk albums of 2024 chosen by our crew and by you through the poll
The year 2024 is over leaving us with wonderful releases like every year, so much for those who say punk is dead! In fact, despite the fact that many people have stopped listening to new records, thinking that the whole thing died out years or decades ago, we can safely prove to you with this article and the monthly Diyno Mixtapes that new and interesting albums are still coming out, both in musical contaminations and in social and political themes, offered very often by bands and labels that retain a strong DIY spirit filled with passion and dedication. In short, the spirit goes on…
This article is made up of several parts:
- Our favorite albums. You will immediately notice that they span multiple subgenres and subcultures because, as you may already know, our crew is made up of several people with different tastes, but united by the same spirit!
- The top albums voted by you in the poll. You voted in great numbers and we thank you very much! As always we chose not to make charts, just to get out of the logic of competition for the purpose of supporting bands, labels and their excellent works.
- Then we will briefly talk about our productions. We wanted to highlight records that we are very passionate about and that by virtue of the fact that we have released we think are good, but without having a conflict of interest by putting them among our favorites. Clearly if we have produced them they are undoubtedly among our favorites, but since we are not only a label but also a webzine, we were pleased to give prominence to other records produced by other labels as well.
- The last part will feature our 2024 playlist in which you can listen to, learn about, and rediscover some of the best songs selected by us from the past year.
Enjoy reading and we highly recommend you browse and listen to everything!
Our favorite albums: the best punk albums of 2024 in the opinion of Radio Punk crew
Amyl And The Sniffers – Cartoon Darkness (12” LP Rough Trade / CD B2B Records)
Let’s make one thing clear right away: we are biased, we love Amyl and the Sniffers madly and, after listening to the singles, we have been eagerly awaiting this record! “Cartoon Darkness,” recorded in Dave Grohl’s notorious 606 Studio, retains the same punk and nonconformist soul that has characterized all of the Australian band’s previous works, but changes tones slightly with the addition to the tracklist of several softer tracks such as “Big Dreams” and “Bailing On Me.” Of course, there is no shortage of songs that are real incendiary molotovs such as “It’s Mine,” “Jerkin’” and “Motorbike Song.” Overall the record is really wonderful, the rough and fuzz sound of the guitar literally blows us away and the bass and drums are also no less, with their raw and impactful mood. The alternation between fast and more chill tracks creates a really pleasant and unique path. Finally, it is impossible not to mention the unmistakable voice of Amyl whose personality bursts from all pores shaking you in the soul, this thanks also to the lyrics that once again deal with social and topical issues but with a positive and full of energy slant, which seems to tell us not to give up and to react, always. In short, we absolutely love this album, you get the picture!
Chain Cult – Harm Reduction (La Vida Es Un Mus | 12″ LP)
From chaotic and fascinating Athens Chain Cult, one of the most interesting punk bands of recent times, are back. The melancholic and anguished sounds typical of post punk meet the punk power and anger, creating a very personal blend that makes this band stand out among many in the genre. “Harm Reduction” comes after a full length and other works such as eps, demos and splits, masterpieces that had raised our expectations sky high. What can we say, we were not disappointed for a second, 8 tracks one more beautiful than the other characterized by clear and melancholic riffs – without renouncing to some more dirty and punk parts – supported by bass and drums that keep the rhythm high. The clean vocals, which manage to sit excellently between the two moods enhancing them, also play an important role in the project with introspective but at the same time social and political themes. A truly amazing work, especially suitable for those who like to get carried away by the cold autumn tones of post punk but at the same time do not want to slip into despondency and pure melancholy by reacting with determination!
The Chisel – What A Fucking Nightmare (Pure Noise Records | CD/12″ LP)
Highly anticipated record behind the scenes of Radio Punk, we planned to reserve a space in a Diyno Mixtape to talk about it, once the record came out our predictions were confirmed, in short, here we are talking about this great record! We’ve always liked Chisel for their direct, pounding, political, screaming, gas-guzzling punk… this latest work finds them in perfect shape. The tracks slide fast one after the other, a perfect mix of street punk, sweat, oi!, beer, a bit of hardcore and blood. The overall theme is well summed up by the title, a summary of what everyday life can be, a fucking nightmare!
Haven’t listened to it yet? Get it now!
Dead Pioneers – S/T (Hassle Records | 12” LP)
What if the first punks were Native Americans? That’s what track 2 of this incredible album claims. Released last year and now reissued via Hassle Records, it merges hardcore punk and spoken word to create something unique, complex and innovative. Gregg Deal, artistic performer and voice of the band, sings or speaks over an unmistakably punk musical backdrop words that weigh like boulders against the capitalist society that fuels racism, homophobia, transphobia, classism and ableism. Words loaded with bitter irony against prejudices about Native Americans, who are seen either as the bad guys in old Westerns or as quaint, naive, and savage: I am a “bad Indian” because my name is Gregg and not Red Eagle, I don’t speak pidgin English, and I don’t wear beadwork. Words that hit like slogans slamming undeniable truths in the face: no one is illegal on stolen land, capitalism can only exist if there is a poor class, no one owns anything and death is real. Words that once sounded like a gloomy curse but were just a long sightedness: we told you that the thirst for power and greed would destroy the world. And they are already doing so.
Goulamas’K – Sempre Aquí (DIY | CD)
It was not obvious for this new album by Goulamas’K to match the very high level of its predecessors, especially that masterpiece that is “Luna Roja”, from 2021. Nor was it easy to avoid falling into self-celebration, given that it comes out on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the standard-bearer band of Occitan punk. Yet the historic ensemble, now road-tested with recent additions to the line-up, hands down earns a place in the Olympus of the best albums of the year by staying true to itself, with its roots firmly planted in tradition and the local area, but opening up to embrace modernity and internationalism with a record that looks straight to the future. Ancient and modern instruments, and the voice that becomes an instrument with assonant words and overlapping idioms, rhythms that range from ska to hip hop, favoring this time reggae suggestions, without losing the overwhelming energy characteristic of the band that gives its best live (seen last summer in France, astonishing!). “Sempre Aquí” is a journey that inspires peace and happiness, a spirit of revolt against injustice and love for the things that make us feel good, confidence in a future we can dream of, with the knowledge that we can change the world if we know how to be the sand in the gear. A journey in warm, mellow colors to distant lands from which, however, with new sounds and new words in our pockets, we always, unfailingly, return home.
Gurs – Gerran Bizi Gara (Symphony of Destruction | 12″ LP)
For the most historically aware people, the band’s name will immediately refer to the infamous French internment camp at the foot of the Pyrenees, Gurs precisely. The band chooses this name to remember the victims of political repression and racial discrimination and decides to reinforce the anti-fascist political connotation of this record through the title, which means “We live in war” in Basque, with the themes of the songs, sung in Spanish and Basque, together with the imagery suggested by the wonderful cover art by Aritz Aranburu. Musically we are talking about 8 post-punk songs with hardcore and vaguely oi! influences reminiscent of the new French wave of bands like Syndrome 81, Bleakness, Cran but also bands like Greek Chain Cult. Direct, somber tracks with a majestic sounding bass and these guitar lines that get into your head and envelop you like an icy fog. The greatness of this record and this band is that despite the many references, they maintain a unique, original and personal style distinguishing themselves from anyone else. “Gerran Bizi Gara” as far as we are concerned is already among the records of the year!
For those who would like to learn more about the history of the band’s name we recommend this article by DIY Conspiracy.
High Vis – Guided Tour (Dais Records | 12” LP, CD / Flatspot Records | Tape)
The essential, British and working class artwork introduces us to what is the overall concept of the record: the world described from the High Vis’ point of view is gray, dank, reeking of stale beer and sweat but despite this it cannot suppress the urge to react. This imagery emerges crystal clear thanks to hardcore punk sounds overwhelmingly steeped in Britpop, indie rock and modern post punk, with some hints of electronics. A wholly personal mix that now distinguishes the London-based band on its third album. Screaming, angry vocals contrast with the somber combination of bass and drums, and the melancholy melody of the guitar line. There is also no shortage of musical experimentation that results in true masterpieces such as Mind’s A Lie. On this tour traced by the sequence of songs, one feels guided as if on a ship on the open sea cradled by the waves. An album imbued with anger, melancholy and a sense of defeat typical of the many who struggle daily to have a decent existence. We are in front of one of the records of the year!
the Hope Conspiracy – Tools of Oppression/Rule by Deception (Deathwish Inc. | 12″ LP, CD)
This record rushes into the monthly Diyno for ‘a few seconds’, waited for with trepidation until the last second has absolutely not disappointed our expectations. The historic Boston band have packed all the hardcore rage they can into 10 tracks and released an album that will leave you breathless, as you might have guessed from the singles already released over the past few months (‘The West is Dead’). The record opens with a few decisive chords, pounding drums, a siren starts and boom: you are sucked into the vortex! Track after track, lyrics of denunciation and anger are accompanied by top quality hardcore. Nothing is really missing. Listen on repeat!
Hot Water Music – Vows (End Hits Records (EU), Equal Vision Records (US) | CD, 12″ LP)
Hot Water Music’s new record arrives on their 30th birthday. For this record, the Florida band decided to involve many of the friendships built up over the years. Many of the tracks feature collaborations (e.g. the album’s closing track with the Interrupters). Despite the fact that many of the vocals replace Chuck Ragan’s, the spirit of the band is well present in all tracks. The band’s classic post-hardcore imprint can be recognised and heard, without ever ending up in self-celebration. An album that doesn’t bore, a very good quality product but this is not surprising, in 30 years these guys have learned a few things!
Hub City Stompers – Drinking Rage (Jump Start Records | 12″ LP/CD)
With an energetic tailspin, this 2024 gives us an album that will not struggle to rank among the best of the year and will delight those who love all kinds of ska. Because this new work by the historic New Jersey band, born more than 20 years ago from the ashes of Inspecter 7, is a small encyclopedia of ska from every era, from rocksteady to two-tone to ska-punk, with suggestions of reggae, oi!, punk rock, hardcore, hip-hop and jazz. Witty and irreverent lyrics, skinhead attitude, and great experience and mastery of musical and vocal expression help make each of the 14 tracks a potential single. From “Won’t Loose Sleep,” featuring Jenny Whiskey’s stunning vocals, usually on tenor sax, to “All the Young Droogs,” an irreverent reprise of Bowie’s “All the Young Dudes.” “The Short but Brilliant Life of Seymour Baruch,” based on the short film of the same name (video made from parts of the film here) directed by Chris Nelson, late brother of singer Travis, tells the bizarre story of a man who tries unsuccessfully several times to end his life: the paradoxical moral of the tale can be summed up in the line ”when a loser tries to lose they always win.” Masterpiece!
Invertebrates – Sick To Survive (Beach Impediment Records | 12″ LP)
Let’s make things clear right away: if you like good old 80s hardcore punk, this album will make you cry out for a miracle! The band from Richmond, Virginia comes back after a couple of small releases to pleasantly ravage our eardrums, unleashing 10 tight, very fast, ferocious tracks with best-in-class riffs and an overbearing bass both in terms of revs and sound. Thanks then to the explosive, screaming vocals that seem to shake you up and a drum kit that goes full blast then you’ll feel like you’re back in the 80s among Black Flag, Minor Threat and Circle Jerks. Absolute masterpiece!
Katastrophen-Kommando – Nettikettenschwindel (Dackelton Records, Broken Silence | CD/12” LP)
This title that sounds like a tongue twister is actually a fusion of the German word Ettikettenschwindel (literally label swindle), meaning misleading advertising, and netiquette, the “etiquette” of the Web. As also well illustrated by the cover artwork, a delicious cake concealing a slice cut in a manner that would shock even the faintest sense of order, this brilliant album by the Dortmund trio is thus a ruthless snapshot of contemporary capitalist society. The appearance that deceives, the packaging that deliberately and fraudulently differs from the content. Thus the 13 tracks of upbeat, light, fun punk rock that at times borders on rock’n’roll or ska, conceal lyrics that address serious and dramatic topics. Bullying and the self-blame of those who suffer it in “Kein Problem.” The suffering of farm animals in “Lasst die Sau raus,” in which the almost childish melody combined with the harshness of the lyrics creates an unsettling and heartbreaking effect. The importance of consent even in entertainment venues in “Master of Spaß”: “The three of us – on a stage as privileged male persons – see it as our particular responsibility to reflect on our role and thus also to be part of creating safe spaces,” comment Zecki, Schmalle and Dän. And we can only approve.
PET NEEDS – Intermittent Fast Living (Xtra Mile Recordings)
Now on their third album, PET NEEDS churns out another energetic record full of style changes. In fact, the British band continues to mix rock’n’roll with punk, ballads and adrenaline-fueled pieces finding its own way and a winning combination. 11 perfectly blended tracks, from the funky and bubbly beginning of How Are You? through Self-Restraint and Lucid, the two most representative tracks of the album, built on the play of vocals and the perfect synchronicity of the rhythmical part, to the melancholic Buried Together, which closes the album perfectly. In short, another great test for the Colchester band.
Riviera – Sempre (La Tempesta Dischi, To Lose La Track | 12″ LP)
It is difficult to describe in words this record and the flow of sensations that runs through you as you listen to it. The Romagnoli Riviera make us emotional again this time, with 9 tracks of emotive punk rock super personal and in their own style but still different from their previous works. “Sempre” picks you up, loads you into the passenger seat of an old Fiat from the 2000s and without a precise destination guides you on a journey through the golden landscapes of Romagna. Or maybe the destination is there, and it is hidden just inside the listener of this record. Speaking of the purely musical aspect, guitar, bass and drums manage to blend together perfectly, without overpowering each other, creating a balanced mix of melody and energy. The trumpet, a special feature of the band along with the characteristic singing, becomes the protagonist in several songs almost like a second voice. Let yourself be carried away by this album, its sounds and its introspective and poetic lyrics. For us it is already a cult!
Shooting Daggers – Love & Rage (New Heavy Sounds – 12″ LP, CD, Tape)
The queercore trio from London released “Love & Rage,” a really amazing full length: a single listen is not enough, as you don’t catch all the nuances, but listening to it again it is definitely complete and complex in terms of sound. Strong 90′ grunge influences are mixed with post hardcore, dreampop and shoegaze creating a personal and unique mix, something you definitely haven’t heard recently. Queer and skate-related imagery comes overbearingly out of all pores, and the lysergic artwork, definitely reminiscent of De Chirico’s painted world, propels you into the intricate swirl of influences and melodies offered by the band.
A particularly multifaceted and richly detailed record. Listening to it you will feel as if you were protagonists of the animated series Daria, great!
Typhoid Rosie – Last Words (DIY | 12” LP)
If you are in the mood for a boost of confidence and positivity in 90s punk rock / riot grrrl sauce, this is the album for you. The Brooklyn-based band, through the theatrical and energetic vocals of talented frontwoman Rosie Rebel, tells us stories with happy endings that invite us to rid ourselves of toxic relationships, haters and energy vampires and focus on self-esteem and love for the people (and pets) who care about us. For example, “Something to fight for,” the (true) story of the semi-paralyzed dog who walks again when he feels motivated. Or the spectacular “Cover it up (Fuck you, I’m so Beautiful),” an ode to body positivity that incites us to see beauty in the mirror in defiance of the aesthetic standards imposed by capitalist society. The witch hunt – as the remarkable vintage-style artwork suggests – is never over, but this gives us even more desire to make our voices heard, should they be our last words (hence the album title) before burning at the stake!
Best punk albums of 2024 poll: the most voted (in alphabetical order)
Amyl And The Sniffers – Cartoon Darkness
Apoptosi – Verso un futuro di completa anestesia
Asfixia Social – Bleeding in the sun
Autodifesa Proletaria – Autunno Caldo
The Chisel – What a Fucking Nightmare
Dog Park Dissidents – Magnificent bastards
Klasse Kriminale – Belin, dei pazzi
LeTormenta – Le Ombre Più Buie
Potere Negativo – Benvenuto all’Inferno
Wolfbrigade – Life Knife Death
Our co-productions, in order of release:
(If you’re interested in one or more of these releases you can find info and order here)
- Bobson Dugnutt – Sell Me Lies (Radio Punk, Flames Don’t Judge Records, Wrong Disk Records, Rebound Action records, Fresh Outbreak Records | 12″ LP). Bobson Dugnutt is a metalpunk band between Berlin and Emilia-Romagna, which we madly love and which comes to its second release! This record really has a great shot, in fact it’s an incredible blend of hardcore punk and metal with some rock n roll touches, all enhanced by the singer’s amazing voice, the edgy guitar riffs and the pounding and very interesting rhythmic base.
The album is released today on 12″ colored vinyl embellished with masterful artwork by Fatgomez. - Plankton – In Balia Delle Onde (NKTN Rehorz, Malammòre DIY, Valley Distro, Rumagna Sgroza, Radio Punk | CD). These nine songs come out this May 2024 in CD format embellished with artwork by Borga (Ligurian tattoo artist as well as a member of bands such as Losers Parade, Downright). Talking about the album, these nine tracks perfectly describe the band from Florence, which skillfully blends the right amount of melody and power that creates a strong impact and gives it a totally personal sound. The songs are steeped in old-school hardcore punk with a certain halo of melodic hardcore/Californian punk rock, and this hybrid can also be heard in the lyrics, which are mostly political, given the way they deal with them somewhere among anger, urgency and irony. Amazing album!
- Tenia – Anime Sconvolte (Annina Record, Entes Anomicos, Lanterna Pirata, Malammòre, Pattada Records, Poison Hearts, Radio Punk, SEDATION, Shove Records, Soundtown, Tifone Crew, Tuscia Clan, Wrong Disk Records | LP 12”). The record is a hardcore punk bomb and you can hear all the urgency from the quartet to express themselves angrily but at the same time going in different directions trying to open up to various nuances. A flooding river that comes across as original, fresh, melodic, furious, poetic, political, and seems to shake you out of the apathy of our days. Quoting the final sentence of “Opinioni Rassicuranti”( “Reassuring Opinions”), “Those who think must act.” The album “Anime Sconvolte” is a wonderful collective work with a very strong personality, and let us say that an album like this was long overdue, one of those albums that is very difficult to pin down and that in the end makes you say that it resembles nothing you have heard before. These 11 tracks also contain several guest collaborations such as with Irene and Alfredo from Narkan, speech by Angie, cello in the Outro by Matteo Bennici. While the recordings are by Rec Fast Die Young of which Tenia’s own drummer Zacca is a part, along with Riccardo Pelle Pellegrini, the mix is by Francesco Borrelli, the master by West West Side Music and the artwork, simply stunning is by Elena Mistrello.
- Gavroche / 17 Incubi – Brucia di Vita (Benefit Cassa Antirepressione delle Alpi Occidentali | 7”). 2 songs per band, both from Turin, mixed and not divided by side, fill the heart with rage and joy, as the songs in this 7” are furious yes, but also destined for the noble benefit purpose of supporting Cassa Antirepressione delle Alpi Occidentali (Western Alps Anti-Repression Fund). On the musical side we are faced with an excellent street punk oi! with strong hardcore influences and with the right melodic component as far as Gavroche’s tracks are concerned, while on the side 17 incubi, a trio with members and ex-members of Bull Brigade, Banda Del Rione, Youngang and S-Contro (to name a few), we find ourselves in front of a very fast, aggressive and unforgiving old-school hc, where the bass is devastating in its sounds and riffs.
Radio Punk Vol. 2024 Top Songs:
Our playlist with the best songs of 2024, just like our favorites, draws from the various subgenres of punk but also from your recommendations of best albums. Below you can listen and save our playlist to learn about, listen to or rediscover new bands. Share it with whomever you like and happy listening!