As 2024 comes to a close, The Guardian has revealed its list of the best albums of the year, showcasing a wide range of global music.
In a historic achievement for Pakistani music, legendary qawwali singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s posthumous album Chain of Light has secured the top spot, while Grammy-winning artist Arooj Aftab’s Night Reign has earned the sixth position.
A Legacy Rekindled: Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Even years after his passing, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan remains a monumental figure in the world of music. Chain of Light, a posthumous compilation featuring four previously unreleased tracks from 1990, highlights the timeless brilliance of his artistry. The album includes electrifying performances of qawwali classics such as Ya Allah Ya Rehman and the never-before-heard Ya Gaus Ya Meeran.
The latter, a nine-minute spiritual and musical journey, showcases Nusrat’s unmatched ability to combine intricate rhythms with soaring vocal improvisations, creating a transcendent experience for listeners. The Guardian called the album “a remarkable discovery that solidifies Khan’s status as one of music’s greatest voices.” The recordings, made during a pivotal time when Nusrat was on the brink of global recognition, offer both a tribute to and a revelation of his enduring genius.
Arooj Aftab: Continuing the Legacy
In another proud moment for Pakistan’s music scene, Arooj Aftab’s Night Reign claimed the sixth spot on the list. Known for blending classical South Asian music with modern minimalism, Aftab’s album is an evocative exploration of love, loss, and the mystery of the night.
Described as “a collection of nine songs focused on the magic and mystery of the late-night hours,” Night Reign pairs Aftab’s deep, emotive vocals with atmospheric soundscapes. A follow-up to her acclaimed 2021 album Vulture Prince, it further establishes Aftab as a leading figure in contemporary global music.
Celebrating Diversity in Music
The Guardian’s Top 10 list is a celebration of innovation and artistry from around the world. Alongside Nusrat and Arooj, the list includes albums spanning a range of genres and cultures, from Mongolian vocal experiments to lo-fi Filipino dance beats, showcasing the diversity of global music in 2024.
The full list includes:
- Poeji – Nant
- DJ Love – Budots World (Reloaded)
- Ganavya – Daughter of a Temple
- Malcolm Jiyane Tree-O – True Story
- Lord Spikeheart – The Adept
- Fabiano do Nascimento, Sam Gendel – The Room
- Milton Nascimento and Esperanza Spalding – Milton + Esperanza
