While K-pop has been consistently above average this year, my J-pop fortunes haven’t been so bright. It’s a real turnaround from this time last year, when I was able to feature fifteen beloved tracks. The choices were more limited this time, but it’s still worth pointing out some stellar work from a few favorites.

What were your top singles and albums during the first half of 2024?

---

TOP SINGLES

---

Bullet Train (Choutokkyuu) – Steal A Kiss

I’ve been a fan of Bullet Train for nearly a decade now, but my enjoyment of their music has waxed and waned throughout the years. Steal A Kiss is a big highlight and easily the best thing their new 9-member configuration has churned out yet. (full review)

---

NCT Wish – Songbird

Blurring the lines between K-pop and J-pop, Songbird melds the strengths of both markets for an early summer standout. I love the energy. (full review)

---

One Love One Heart – Aise, Shigoku Sanzan na Bokura no Hi wo

This may be a more traditional J-pop sound for them, but still harnesses the robust melodies that make this approach so satisfying. (full review)

---

Queen Bee – Super Memorial

Screw the dull, saccharine fan songs. This is how you celebrate an anniversary! It’s alt-rock meets summer dance festival in the quirkiest way. (full review)

---

Ryugujo – Deep Wave

Ryugujo continue their run as one of the most exciting acts on the planet with this tempo-changing, genre-blending take on dance music. (full review)

---

SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:TOMORROW X TOGETHER – LeveL

I’m still flabbergasted that famed producer Sawano Hiroyuki collaborated with a big-name K-pop act. The result is a thrilling burst of anime-ready energy. (full review)

---

TOP ALBUMS

---

Bullet Train (Choutokkyuu) – Just Like Bullet Train

A collection of quirky, synth-powered bangers that keeps the energy high throughout.

---

Genic – N_G

An all killer, no filler affair that sees the group taking even more creative control than usual. So many of the b-sides are stronger than most promoted singles and the vocals are stellar throughout.

---

Miyavi – Lost In Love

What’s a “favorite albums” list without a little Miyavi? He continues his winning streak with this taut collection of powerful rock tracks.

---

One Love One Heart – Aise, Shigoku Sanzan na Bokura no Hi wo

While much lighter and fluffier than their debut (bring back the theatrical rock sound, guys!), this is still an airtight collection of classic idol material.

---

Ryugujo – Deep Wave

This album blew me away on first listen and continues to be one of my favorite things released all year. It’s a sprawling collection of sounds, held together by producer Avu-chan’s ambitious vision and Ryugujo’s go-for-broke performance. All five tracks are absolutely epic. (full album review)