World Music Central Announces the Best World Music Albums of 2024

World Music Central proudly unveils its curated selection of the top world music albums for 2024. This year’s list includes splendid original works, masterful contemporary reinterpretations of roots music, dynamic cross-cultural collaborations, and timeless traditional recordings.

While the albums are presented in a numbered format, each recording stands as an equally compelling work of art, representing the rich diversity and artistry of roots music. These selections are more than just rankings; they are essential listening for anyone seeking to expand their world music collection.

Top 25 Albums of 2024

1. Diego Amador & José María Bandera – Paqueando – Toque Records
2. Ibrahim Maalouf – Trumpets Of Michel-Ange – Mister Ibe
3. Varijashree Venugopal – Vari – GroundUP Music
4. Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 – Heavier Yet (Lays The Crownless Head) – Record Kicks
5. Kiki Valera y su Son Cubano – Vacilón Santiaguero – Circle 9 Records
6. Didon – Malak – Electrofone
7. Ali Doğan Gönültaş – Keyeyî – Mapamundi Música
8. Bab L’ Bluz – Swaken – Real World Records
9. Spanish Harlem Orchestra – Swing Forever – Ovation Records
10. Afro Celt Sound System – OVA – Six Degrees Records
11. Rusan Filiztek – Exils – Accords Croisés
12. Altan – Donegal – Compass Records
13. Lúnasa – Live in Kyoto – Lúnasa Records
14. Los Cumbia Stars – La Cumbia Une a Latinoamérica – Discos Fuentes
15. Moira Smiley – The Rhizome Project – Moira Smiley
16. Heisk – Headstrong – The Bothy Society
17. Jyotsna Srikanth – Carnatic Nomad – Naxos World
18. The Zawose Queens – Maisha – Real World Records
19. Aziza Brahim – Mawja – Glitterbeat Records
20. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan – Chain of Light – Real World Records

Best Compilation

Orchestre Maquis du Zaire; Orchestre Safari Sound – Zanzibara 11, Congo in Dar: Dance No Sweat 1982-1986 – Buda Musique