Top Five Local Albums of 2024

The local original music scene in Erie has been growing and evolving for generations. The amount and variation of talent in our community is deserving of our support, and is something we should all be proud of. The sheer quantity has reached such heights that in 2024, we reviewed the most local releases in our publication's history. As is now tradition, each of our regular album review contributors chose their favorite local original album to feature for our top five local albums of the year. For some local acts, this support is so important — we introduce those outside the usual circles to new music. Maybe give a listen to someone new from this list and make a local musician's day!

Smilo & the Ghost // Twang & Fire

Lacustrine harefooters making hard times and hard work sound like sweet release from the evils of this life. Lonesome enough to feel familiar, somber enough to be upbeat. Hometown anti-hero with a rapidly unfolding fan base providing uplifting tempos for the win. — Melissa Sullivan Shimek

Elle Taylor // See the Sun

Elle Taylor's sophomore album See the Sun doubles down on the instantly recognizable songwriting that made Taken Me A While such an interesting debut. Compiling reworked demos and fresh tracks, the album springs to life with contributions from local players such as Larry Wheaton and Ken Tate. Radiating a sense of bright optimism even in times of emotional crises, See the Sun continues Taylor's streak as one of the more unique singer-songwriter acts in Erie. — Aaron Mook

Common Spence // Floor Time

A debut born out of honesty and a heartfelt chance to articulate the emotions that swirl around in our heads, the six tracks of Floor Time feel intimate and immediate. A blend of folk-punk and lo-fi pop, each song leaves you with an unexpected lyrical sentiment that will likely stick with you for days.  — Nick Warren

LADDERS // February

LADDERS' February EP successfully blends influences from early 2000s emo, screamo, and metalcore acts, capturing both raw energy and nostalgic melodies. Recorded with Sam Donahue of Penny Racer, February channels the band's high-octane live energy, setting them up as a force to continue watching in the local music scene. — Aaron Mook

Machine Elvis // Dog Gods

Multi-instrumentalist Brent Knight from Cambridge Springs blends indie, prog, and psychedelic sounds to make a unique record filled with catchy lyrics and flowing melodies. Songs about life and the world we live in makes this an introspective record, worthy of several listens.
— Larry Wheaton