As 2024 draws to a close, the music scene has been defined by a powerful resurgence of rave culture, with Jungle and Hardcore music leading the charge. From new releases that pay homage to the past to a fresh wave of artists and labels propelling these genres to new heights, this year has seen an unforgettable revival of underground sounds. Followed by our 'Hall of Fame 2024', this roundup, by the words of Strictly Nuskool Blog's GLOWKID and TARIQ ZIYAD reflect on the highlights of the year.
GLOWKiD says:
" As the scintillating year 2024 comes to an end, we have plenty to celebrate on the musical front, particularly with the resurgence of Jungle music, a genre that emerged 30 years ago and now stands proudly at the forefront of high quality raves and events. Thanks to the tireless work of dedicated crews, community radios and labels (especially in pioneering cities like London and Bristol) this sound is going out strong. The keyholders of this movement are the young stalwarts, who carry a fresh energy pushing the scene to unparalleled heights.
The UK's vibrant core continues to deliver the vibe to the rest of the world. A shining example is Gustav Ejstes of the Swedish psychedelic rock band Dungen, who broke the barriers and under the Dungen moniker, debuted a groundbreaking Hardcore Jungle record on Tim Reaper's Future Retro label. Massive parties across the UK and everywhere and the dedication of heroes like Tim Reaper, Pete Cannon, Distant Planet, and Calling the Hardcore have kept the Hardcore and Jungle scene thriving. In the meantime, the Kniteforce Records kingdom remains powerful in everywhere around Hardcore.
Last but not least, for fans of Oldskool legends, the ultimate bundle from Messiah through Kniteforce Records, offered a 'temple of dreams,' packed with everything you could imagine and more. Meanwhile, Nexus 21 unveiled their long-awaited second album - a gem of previously unreleased tunes and more."
TARIQ ZIYAD says:
" The post pandemic rave revival continued throughout 2024, fueled by a growing movement of artists and labels, new and returning legends. I recorded my contribution to the Strictly Nuskool Blog yearly tradition back in October. Since then, there has been a ton of really good releases on labels like Warehouse Wax, Future Retro London, Hardcore Energy and of course, Kniteforce. I propose an additional list of tracks I love from late 2024 in no particular order:
mSdoS - Take Me Away
Cinthie - Rave Baby
Brian Brainstorm - My Love
SYNTAX, Arkyn (UK-Lovin' That You're Givin'
Retron One - Project Five
Time || Dance - I Need Your Desire
Simon Holmes - Reflections
mSdoS - Inner Groove
Lucas - Pull The Strings
Jimmy J & Cru-l-t - Take Control (T-Cuts remix)
