Milwaukee, WI

Our 20 favorite Milwaukee albums and songs from 2024

Published

2 years ago

December 16, 2024

Press Room

Our 20 favorite Milwaukee albums and songs from 2024

Halfway into the 2020s, it’s clear: This has been an incredible decade for Milwaukee music.

But you don’t need to look back at five years of releases to make that conclusion. Just this year, Milwaukee artists pushed artistic boundaries and made incredible statements that would rival artists from anywhere else in the world.

My 10 favorite local albums and 10 favorite local songs of 2024 don’t begin to scratch the surface when it comes to encapsulating the capabilities of musicians from our city. I implore you to revisit these releases or hear them for the first time.

And then keep listening to Milwaukee music — and be prepared to fall in love with endless discoveries.

10 favorite Milwaukee songs of 2024

The Palestinian-American singer has a radiant voice well suited to R&B, with a sparse and engrossing arrangement that gives it space to shimmer on this track. But the most splendid thing about “june :(” is how direct and relatable *aya is struggling with seasonal depression and looking back longingly at a more carefree and empowering time.

9. ‘RWS,’ SteveDaStoner

SteveDaStoner wins the prize for the Milwaukee music scene’s best self-promoter of the year. His irresistible “join my party” personality fueled his shows (including a Summerfest set jammed with rappers, kids and elders on stage) and his charming social media videos (including a surprise free concert stunt at 3rd Street Market Hall with none other than Ludacris). But that marketing savvy wouldn’t matter if he didn’t have fun songs to back it up, and our city’s unofficial summer anthem, “RWS,” definitely delivered that.

Exciting as it was to see Milwaukee (finally) host so many regional Mexican acts on big stages in 2024, the best part was seeing homegrown talent Klan 414 rise to the occasion with big shows and intoxicating original songs. “Enamora2” was a standout from a very good year, with tender croons from Jesus Armando Sanchez matched by Martin Flores’ glorious (but humble) acoustic guitar lines.

The punk band continues pushing itself in a poppier direction with this sleek and instantly catchy “Narcissist,” whose “na-na-na-na” vocal hooks are just as invigorating as Elizabeth Mauritz’s beautifully bitter takedowns of a terrible ex.

6. ‘Amy Come on Home,’ Ladybird

The country band’s latest album “Amy Come on Home” was a beauty, from the quiet but stirring opening track “Audrey’s Garden” to the bar-brawl-ready “Short King Shuffle.” Check out the whole album, but the title track is a knockout with it’s-impossible-to-resist climactic buildup and engaging payoff, foreshadowing even bolder directions the band might go.

5. ‘Death Is in the Air,’ Holy Pinto

Native Brit Aymen Salah has no shortage of beautiful melodies and gently devastating lyrics in his discography. But “Death Is in the Air” may be a new peak on both fronts, with a soft, Spanish guitar-kissed intro providing a disarming invitation before Salah, through his deceitfully pretty emo-seasoned voice, caps his tragic tale with a gut-punch final lyric.

Patience and meticulous craftsmanship have paid off for Jackson, who makes this list two years in a row, after releasing just three songs in that time frame. Country-flavored “China Lights” (enhanced by ghostly group vocals featuring Caley Conway and lonesome slide guitar from Will Hanson) demonstrates Jackson’s ability to raise the stakes — musically, theatrically and lyrically — without resorting to any predictable tricks.

3. ‘Maybe Hell Is a Better Place?’, Micah Emrich

Emrich made a rich, full-length album debut with “Promises,” but it was the single “Maybe Hell is a Better Place?” that demonstrated he’s a master at grandeur. The song offers a sumptuous three-course meal in under four minutes, beginning with soft guitar strums and pained vocal confessionals; moving into early Bon Iver territory with spectral falsetto; then peaking with trippy, wall-smashing, guitar-rock catharsis in which Emrich’s singing and lyrics remain the chief source of the song’s power.

It won’t be a mere moment for Bug Moment. The ambitious quartet — influenced by emo, certainly, but not constrained by genre limitations — emerged as a leader of Milwaukee’s exciting new generation of garage rock bands with 2023’s ambitious album “The Flying Toad Circus.” But “Purple Guy” ups the ante with even more drama and unexpected twists, an encouraging first taste of a new album that already seems poised to be a contender for the best-of-2025 list.

Zed Kenzo’s sticky flow, sharp ear for production and skill with irresistible hooks have long made her an artist in her own orbit in Milwaukee’s gifted hip-hop scene. But this year, she found a way to distill all of those talents into her boldest run of heart-bursting bangers to date — “I’m a Vibe,” “The Greatest” and “Dangerous” among them — all of which are two minutes or less. “Good Life,” with its Bollywood-gone-EDM beat, is the greatest in a great collection.

10 favorite Milwaukee albums of 2024

The Milwaukee rock band can always be counted on to deliver a delightful racket. And on their sophomore album, an improvement from a terrific full-length debut, they do just that. But there’s more to love about Scam Likely than Charlee Grider’s holler and Grider’s fellow ’90s-rock-inspired guitarist Denzel “Ducky” Dondiego (a wonderful parting statement before leaving the band to support their culinary career). Softer songs like “Nosebleed,” on which Grider’s vulnerable vocals at times resembles Billie Eilish’s elastic croon, demonstrate emotional depths that likely means greater things to come.

9. ‘Mere Survival,’ Joe Wong

The accomplished Milwaukee-born, Los Angeles-based film and TV composer — whose credits includes work for Fox’s “Krapopolis” for fellow Milwaukee native Dan Harmon — conceived and impeccably executed his own Pink Floyd-style opus on “Mere Survival.” It demonstrates, perhaps even more than his film and TV work, Wong’s ability to create cinematic-scale emotions through expansive and intimate symphonic-rock arrangements.

The singer-songwriter approaches her mid-twenties with a lot of soul searching across seven impeccably crafted songs — expressing regret for letting friendships wither, among other reasons for remorse, that are relatable regardless of your age. Mahal may have a lot to figure out in her life, but when it comes to acute and compelling lyrics about the human condition, “Allie” shows she’s an assured and commanding songwriter.

There are scores of gifted musicians in Milwaukee, but perhaps no one is as transporting as the Bush brothers Kevin and Will. Their PhD-worthy study of ’80s synthpop has paid off through their own meticulously crafted and engrossing music, which reaches new levels of emotional impact on this epic seven-song album. A-list pop stars and filmmakers would be wise to take notice and start blowing up their phones, begging for collaborations.

Not since Coo Coo Cal topped Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs chart in 2001 has a Milwaukee-based rapper had a bigger hit than J.P.’s irresistible “Bad Bitty,” which by year’s end accumulated nearly 26 million streams on Spotify alone. The album “Bad Bitty” appeared on, “Coming Out Party,” proved J.P. was no one-hit wonder, with each of the beat-slapping, fun-loving lowend tracks on the album every bit as intoxicating as the breakout song. Through some soulful vocals here, and surprising sonic detours there, J.P. illustrates that he has a whole lot to offer.

Caley Conway’s enigmatic and unpredictable tendencies shine brighter than ever on sophomore full-length “Partner,” making these seven dreamy tracks intriguing and arresting on first listen. But what makes “Partner” so powerful is the way it invites new considerations with each listen, from fresh interpretations of Conway’s mysterious vocal deliveries to a new layer of emotional resonance unearthed from an instrumental choice freshly detected after copious listens. And while my listens are so far just a handful, “Partner” really does seem like the kind of album that will provoke new revelations in perpetuity.

4. ‘Trust in Movements Made,’ Field Report

Field Report frontman Christopher Porterfield, one of Milwaukee’s finest songwriters, signed up to be artist in residence for the Lotus Legal Clinic’s Rise & Thrive program, partnering with five survivors of sexual violence, who lent their perspectives and poetry to songs about processing their grief and rediscovering their joy. The result is a moving document of human perseverance, determination and the power of empathy and healing.

3. ‘The Real Truth,’ Maximiano

It’s the “real truth,” all right — one of the most piercing and emotionally resonant collections of songs from a Milwaukee artist of the year, an even more admirable feat as a debut. From unearthing hard-fought realizations over ethereal ambiance on the jaw-dropping title track to a grand finale via “The Moment’s Gone” that slides from jazzy, piano-powered epiphanies, Maximiano turns “The Real Truth” into a towering artistic achievement.

After making this list last year with the frequently funny and infectious “Undeniably Ground-Breakingly Excellent,” James makes the list again with a very different album. “It’s Giving Healed Black Man” cuts closer to his heart as James seeks redemption and atonement, faces hard truths and seeks a healthier way of living — all while not abandoning the charisma, humor and heart-racing hooks that have made James one of the brightest talents on Milwaukee’s golden hip-hop scene.

Do life’s stressful circumstances make you want to scream? Make you feel like whimpering? Emo act Barely Civil has the perfect album for you, and for these times, throwing bitter screams against lonesome whispers, tender guitar melodies against heart-bursting rock onslaughts, grand statements against intimate emotional excavations. We may not be fine, but in tapping into such palpable anxiety with such clarity, Barely Civil has made the finest Milwaukee album of the year, and one of the finest albums to come from anywhere in 2024.

Contact Piet at (414) 223-5162 or plevy@journalsentinel.com. Follow him on X at @pietlevy or Facebook at facebook.com/PietLevyMJS.

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Milwaukee, WI

Brewers’ No. 6 prospect gives glowing review of Milwaukee’s farm system

Published

2 hours ago

June 20, 2026

Press Room

Brewers’ No. 6 prospect gives glowing review of Milwaukee’s farm system

While the Milwaukee Brewers continue their battle for NL Central supremacy, 2025 first-round selection Andrew Fischer is working his way up the minor leagues. Now the No. 6 ranked prospect in the team’s farm system, the third baseman posted a .311/.402/.446 slash line in 19 games with the High-A Wisconsin Timber Rattlers.

Fischer’s recent performance warranted a promotion to the Double-A, where he is now competing as part of the Biloxi Shuckers. The 22-year-old is turning heads around the league, leading him to join Foul Territory TV for a recent interview about his experience in the Brewers’ farm system so far:

“The talent in here is unreal. I think that’s why the Brewers do such a good job of developing their guys, is they put you in environments where you’re literally competing every day with the best of the best,” Fischer explained. “For me, it’s going to make my batting practice sharper. It’s going to make my in-game reps sharper. It’s going to make our communication on the field sharper. It’s honestly really special what they have over here.”

Before diving into the specifics of what he discussed — this was a great first impression as someone who had never seen Fischer in an interview before! He’s well-spoken, he seems passionate, and he has a good sense of the value of the opportunities around him. As the Brewers search for answers at third base, he’ll certainly be in the back of GM Matt Arnold’s mind. If he can keep producing the way he has thus far, it won’t be a hard decision down the line.

But more importantly in the short-term, Fischer pinpointed the exact winning recipe that has been driving sustainable long-term success for the Brewers all decade.

Andrew Fischer just summed up one of the hardest lessons the Brewers organization has ever learned.

When you’re considered a small market in a league like the MLB where spending can equate to success, the only way to compete is to double down on what you’re good at. For the Milwaukee Brewers, that’s become scouting and development.

From rookies to reclamation projects, the Brewers help players find the best in themselves by simplifying the game, building good habits, and having players lead by example. As Fischer discussed, surrounding talented players with other like-minded individuals is a recipe for building sustainable growth. Those incremental steps toward success stack up until eventually, you’ve got a winning ballclub on your hands.

It starts with the front office, where GM Matt Arnold and the Brewers’ elite scouting team identify players with the traits that fit on and off the field. That trickles down to the managers and coaches, who see the potential in these players and use their expertise to draw it out of them. That, along with the camaraderie these players build along the way, is the recipe for a culture that could bring success to Milwaukee for many years to come.

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Milwaukee, WI

Today’s Summerfest schedule and picks: Saturday, June 20

Published

12 hours ago

June 20, 2026

Press Room

Today’s Summerfest schedule and picks: Saturday, June 20

Every morning throughout Summerfest 2026, we’ll deliver a guide that covers the day’s entertainment and how you can get in the gate free of charge. This is where you’ll find info about the AmFam Amp headliners, eclectic picks from our knowledgeable staff and the music lineup for the day (see the full 2026 Summerfest lineup here).

Today at the AmFam Amp + Radio Milwaukee staff pick #1

Carín León, 7 p.m.

For the first time in the festival’s 58-year history, a Spanish-language artist is headlining the main amphitheater. As a Mexican, it’s super exciting to see rising stars bring our music and vibrant dancing to an entirely new crowd. Hearing live banda is a whole new world and something everyone needs to experience at least once in their life. Think of it as a taste of what Mexican Fiesta brings to the lakefront every August (coming very soon, too!). Grab a beer your boots and your tickets to witness a very special moment.

— Leslie Garcia Ramirez

Radio Milwaukee staff pick #2

The Academy Is… @ Miller Oasis, 10:30 p.m.

In the midst of the emo and screamo wave of the early to mid 2000s, this Midwest band made a name for themselves. Still, you may have missed The Academy Is… like I did.

Fortunately, I got some help after becoming a diehard fan boy of the Milwaukee indie-rock outfit Whips (RIP! 😢) and discovered that band wasn’t Milwaukee-based drummer Andy Mrotek’s first rodeo. Mrotek was with The Academy Is… almost from day one, did his own thing when the group broke up and returned when they got back together a few years back.

Since reconnecting, the band have been touring and recording, and this past March they released their most recent album — their first in nearly 20 years. Whether you’re a fan of The Academy Is… or just loved the genre, reunite with your mid-2000s self and check them out at the Miller Oasis (and come early to check out fellow emo greats Braid, which you may hear about momentarily).

— Jay Burseth

Radio Milwaukee staff pick #3

Braid @ Miller Oasis, 8:30 p.m.

Hailing from the Midwest Emo Holy Land of Champaign, Ill., Braid is the sonic personification of everything it means to grow up in the chilling plains of Middle America. The stinging lyrics and pouting guitars amalgamate to anthems that have had angsty teens in a chokehold since well before their landmark 1998 album, Frame and Canvas.

This posse of sad dads is set to take on the Miller Oasis, making their return to the Summerfest grounds for the first time since 2015, when they closed the set with their love note for our great city, “Milwaukee Sky Rocket.” Braid’s irrefutable impact on our city’s emo scene will be sure to draw in kickers and screamers from all over, and you won’t want to miss it.

— Matthew Poulton

Radio Milwaukee staff pick #4

Trapper Schoepp @ Uline Warehouse, 5:30 p.m.

It’s always a special treat to see Milwaukee bands playing Summerfest. I get excited to think about all the new fans our local artists reach when they hit the stage — something singer-songwriter Trapper Schoepp has experienced a time or two over his wonderful career.

One of Milwaukee’s true artists, Schoepp’s career in music literally started as an accident. While recuperating from a BMX-related back injury, he heard Bob Dylan’s “Hurricane” and was inspired to pick up a guitar as a “safer” hobby. He put out his first record at the age of 17 with his brother Tanner; he’s collaborated with Bob Dylan, Nicole Atkins and Wilco; and — almost two decades later — he’s still one of those musicians who seems to thrive onstage.

Schoepp’s songs are a slice of Americana with a bit of a punk-rock edge. He sings about the nostalgia of his youth on Bay Beach Amusement Park, and his journey through addiction and recovery on new album Osborne. Will he come out into the crowd and play guitar while standing on the benches with you? Check out the show this today and find out for yourself.

How to get in free today

Briggs & Stratton United Way Diaper & Wipe Drive

Help United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County provide essential diapers and wipes to families across the community. Between noon and 3 p.m., the first 1,500 patrons who donate new unopened wipes or diapers with a total minimum value of $10 per person will receive one free admission ticket, valid for the day and time of the promotion only. All donations benefit United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County’s Diaper Bank network.

Summerfest schedule for Saturday, June 20

American Family Insurance Amphitheater

American Family Insurance House

4 p.m. — Weston Estate
2 p.m. — Flipturn

BMO Pavilion

9 p.m. — David Lee Roth
7:15 p.m. — Kirstie Kraus
5:30 p.m. — Substitute: Tales From The Who

Miller Lite Oasis

10:30 p.m. — The Academy Is…
8:30 p.m. — Braid
6:30 p.m. — The Juliana Theory
4:30 p.m. — Colin Bracewell
2:45 p.m. — American Progress
1:15 p.m. — IDKCONUNDRUM

T-Mobile Stage

10:15 p.m. — Nate Smith
8:15 p.m. — McCoy Moore
6:15 p.m. — Scott Wolverton
4:15 p.m. — Rhys Rutherford
2:30 p.m. — Will Terry
12:45 p.m. — Lauren Gottshall

Generac Power Stage

9:30 p.m. — Flipturn
7:30 p.m. — Penelope Road
5:30 p.m. — Winyah
3:30 p.m. — Old Mervs
2 p.m. — Tobacco Road
12:30 p.m. — The Band Solstice

Uline Warehouse

9:30 p.m. — Christopher Cross
7:30 p.m. — Don Felder
5:30 p.m. — Trapper Schoepp
3:30 p.m. — A.J. Croce
2 p.m. — Kenneth Brian Band
12:30 p.m. — Milly & The Mayhem

Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard

10 p.m. — Connor Price
8 p.m. — Weston Estate
6 p.m. — Graham
4 p.m. — SM6
2:30 p.m. — Noah Richardson
1 p.m. — Sarah Krohn

Aurora Pavilion

9 p.m. — Aspen
7 p.m. — Dexter & The Moonrocks
5:45 p.m. — Red Leather
4:30 p.m. — Altered By Mom
3:15 p.m. — Cigarettes @ Sunset
2:15 p.m. — Candy Cigarette
1:45 p.m. — Woraz
1:15 p.m. — Take Back the Sun
12:45 p.m. — White Paper Walls
12:15 p.m. — Mala Mala

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Milwaukee, WI

South Milwaukee homeowner fights city order to remove year-round skeleton display

Published

22 hours ago

June 19, 2026

Press Room

South Milwaukee homeowner fights city order to remove year-round skeleton display

SOUTH MILWAUKEE, Wis. — A South Milwaukee homeowner is pushing back after the city ordered him to take down his year-round skeleton display, calling it a violation of property maintenance codes.

Sean Oster and his wife have maintained the display — featuring skeletons named Hector and Henrietta along with other decorations— for nearly two years, dressing them up for holidays, sports events, and other occasions.

Mike Beiermeister

The display in Sean’s front yard.

The display has drawn attention from neighbors and passersby, with some saying it has become part of the neighborhood’s character.

Watch: South Milwaukee homeowner fights city order to remove year-round skeleton display

South Milwaukee homeowner fights city order to remove year-round skeleton display

“It’s like an expression of the owner’s passion… and I think it’s cool they can use their lawn that way,” neighbor Jeremy Payment said.

Last month, Oster received a letter from the city of South Milwaukee describing the skeletons as Halloween decorations being displayed outside the appropriate time of year and ordering him to remove them by July 7.

Under the city’s property maintenance code, yards must be kept free of anything considered an “unreasonable blighting influence,” which the city says can include displays left up out of season. The notice also flagged an inoperable vehicle on the property. Each violation could result in fines of up to $500 per day if not corrected by the deadline.

Oster says he understands part of the city’s concern.

“They have a few points… I’ve got a couple collector cars… I understand those shouldn’t be out,” Oster said.

He plans to move the cars into the garage and clean up the yard, but says the skeletons are staying.

“I don’t think it’s hurting anybody. It’s literally a victimless crime,” Oster said.

Oster also had a message for whoever filed the complaint.

“Live with it… more people like it than hate it. And if we’re enforcing this, then we should go around and take down Christmas lights that are up year-round,” Oster said.

The city administrator did not respond to a request for comment.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

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