Making a top 10 list is never easy. When it comes to Vermont's exploding hip-hop scene, that calculus is harder than ever. In 2024, we've been blessed with dozens of worthy album releases, and the bar for quality control is set professionally high. The only problem? The embarrassment of riches makes it difficult for artists to stand out — and for listeners to keep up. Accurately summing up all this hustle and flow is an impossible task. In preparation for this doomed attempt, I have been picking the brains of local hip-hop artists, promoters, producers and fans for weeks. Beyond the fact that everyone feels there's too much going on to keep track of, there is very little clear consensus on the best music of the year. Certain names come up a lot, though. Established rappers Konflik, Charlie Mayne and D.FRENCH get love from every corner of the state. Breakout newbies such as Devon Dutchmaster, HAKIMXOXO, Topia and Flywlkr have made waves beyond their social circles, too. The Funky Diabetic is universally hailed as a hard worker with a great live set, and Real Ricky's upcoming debut album is a highly anticipated release. Vermont producers get a lot of respect, as well. In my conversations, Caleb Lodish's obsessive perfectionism and huge musical range were often cited. Rico James has been an undeniable force, delivering a record label's worth of output by himself this year. "I've given up on trying to get noticed," he admitted, "and I'm just cranking out beats. It's made it fun and satisfying again." While youthful energy has driven the narrative in 2024, the pillars of the scene remain in place. DJ, producer and promoter David Chief is still one of Burlington's foremost tastemakers, and nearly everyone gives props to AfterLyfe Music founder and VT Union legend Nastee. Despite formally retiring as a group, the individual members of 99 Neighbors are at the forefront of the new wave. Conswank's solo debut, Low Point Retreat, was one of 2023's finest local albums, and maari's All Is Fair in Love & War, a collaboration this year with Burlington producer Es-K, continues their unbroken winning streak. Since the glory days of Lynguistic Civilians, veteran rapper and promoter Mister Burns has never stopped working. Last month alone, he brought Talib Kweli and the Pharcyde to Vermont. If he ever retires or jumps ship to another state, it will be a…