After sharing my rundown of the top 35 new albums of 2024, it’s time to dive into a companion list—my Top 35 Box Sets and Reissues of 2024.
Please watch the video above for the FULL rundown
For collectors like us, box sets and reissues offer a chance to rediscover classics, explore deep cuts, and enjoy the meticulous care put into remastering and packaging. This year’s releases have been nothing short of spectacular, showcasing a mix of timeless albums, hidden gems, and lovingly crafted collections.
Without further ado, here’s my list of the box sets and reissues that made 2024 unforgettable.
The Countdown: My Top 35 Box Sets and Reissues of 2024
35. Neat Records Anthology
Cherry Red delivers a 4-CD celebration of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, featuring iconic and lesser-known bands. Essential for NWOBHM fans.
34. Wasted – Pete Way Box Set
A brilliant retrospective of Pete Way’s career. A treasure trove for fans of UFO and British hard rock.
33. Stormy Monday: The Blues Years 1985–2008 – Chris Farlowe
This set captures Chris Farlowe’s bluesy evolution post-Colosseum. Beautifully packaged and a joy to explore.
Highlights from the Middle of the List
23. Electric Lady Studios Sessions – Jimi Hendrix
This set delivers pristine sound quality, showcasing Hendrix’s genius in a raw and intimate studio setting.
19. Bursting Out (Expanded Edition) – Jethro Tull
A reissue that sets the standard for how live albums should be revisited. The design and booklet alone make it a standout.
16. The Ox Box – John Entwistle
An expansive collection of Entwistle’s solo work, revealing his creativity and unique approach to rock.
Into the Top 10
10. Pyramid (Super Deluxe Edition) – The Alan Parsons Project
This single-album box set is a masterclass in presentation. From half-speed mastered vinyl to a wealth of extras, it’s the definitive version of Pyramid.
9. Where Is My Mind: 1967–1969 – Vanilla Fudge
Nine CDs of psychedelic brilliance from Vanilla Fudge, capturing their most experimental and iconic years.
8. All the Crazy Gift of Time: 1969–1973 – Kevin Ayers
This Harvest-era collection is a quirky, jazzy, and fascinating deep dive into Ayers’ eclectic career.
7. David Coverdale Solo Albums Box Set
A stunning remix and remaster of Coverdale’s early solo work, paired with unreleased material that showcases his versatility beyond Whitesnake.
The Final Five
5. Eternal Idol – Tony Martin Years – Black Sabbath
This long-awaited box set celebrates Sabbath’s Tony Martin era with remastered albums and a reimagined version of Forbidden.
4. Queen (Super Deluxe Edition) – Queen
An incredible celebration of Queen’s debut album, with a massive book, remastered audio, and enough extras to satisfy any fan.
3. The Faces BBC Sessions
The Faces’ live magic is captured in this beautifully presented set, which has quickly become a favorite for its rare performances and stellar sound.
2. Johnny the Fox/Jailbreak (Deluxe Edition) – Thin Lizzy
This set celebrates Thin Lizzy’s prime era with remixes, outtakes, and a gorgeous hardback book. Essential for Lizzy fans.
And Number 1…
1. Rory Gallagher Live at the BBC (Super Deluxe Edition)
With 20 discs, including 18 CDs and two Blu-rays, this set is a monumental celebration of Rory Gallagher’s live brilliance. The incredible value, exceptional content, and breathtaking quality make it my top pick of 2024.
Special Mention
While my list focused on box sets, I couldn’t ignore the reissue of Ragged Kingdom by June Tabor and the Oysterband. This folk-rock masterpiece from 2011 sent me down a rabbit hole of rediscovering English folk traditions and storytelling. It’s a gem worth exploring.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
