The 5 Best EPs of 2024

Short and sweet, in a Sabrina Carpenter-type of way.

Dec 17, 2024

Several extended plays from 2024 ascended their short runtimes to become regular parts of my musical rotation. Let’s talk about my top 5 below, with each EP being linked at the end of each entry. Happy listening!

It’s wild to think this year was Red Velvet’s 10th anniversary. They’ve been one of k-pop’s most exciting groups for a long time, and they show no signs of slowing down on Cosmic. The six songs and bonus track stick to the same dance-pop and R&B lane they do so well, and I’d bet on them to keep being at the top of their game for a long time. LISTEN

As ubiquitous as Tove Lo has become with popular dance-pop, she hadn’t found a pairing that works in her favor quite like this EP with SG Lewis does. HEAT is nothing but that, four catchy-as-hell songs that’ll make you move and make you sweat. The intention is simple, effective and easy to return to. LISTEN

Little Simz has shown herself to be one of the best pure rappers working today, and she’s not content to sit still. Drop 7 implements a dance element that hits hard, and Simz’s raps hit hard over chunky synths and bassy percussion. It’s a great detour from her more orchestral rap overtures from the last few years. LISTEN

After years of making Bon Iver’s sound more synthetic, it only made sense for Justin Vernon to return to the cabin that made him a star. SABLE, is an acoustic-driven affair, one that harkens back to For Emma, Forever Ago and Bon Iver, Bon Iver, filled with those hearty vocals Vernon does so well. He’s as introspective as he’s ever been, looking deep within to find forgiveness and love. Hopefully a full project with this sound is imminent, but for now, this EP is a fantastic return. LISTEN

Each moment on assisted memories is a hazy moment in time you’re not sure if you remember or not. Night Tapes emulate the best dream pop groups like Beach House with emotive vocals and silky instrumentals that flow in and out of consciousness. “waterfall” and “every day is a game” follow the dream pop formula well, but it’s the more pop-influenced tracks like “drifting” and “projections” that elevate assisted memories to the top spot on this list. LISTEN

The 5 Best EPs of 2024

Short and sweet, in a Sabrina Carpenter-type of way.

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