It's officially the most wonderful time of the year. Here are my top 50 favorite songs of 2019.
2019 has been a great year for music. Music to cry to, music that's been captivating, music that's a fantastic digest from all the turmoil and damage that the world has been in this year. All in all, there's been so many bold and powerful statements in music. I'm here to discuss all of my favorite musical moments of 2019 now that the year has finally come to close and 2020 has finally begun. Here are my top 50 favorite songs of 2019 and my thoughts on each one of them. Enjoy and thanks for reading!
(PS: If you want to cut to the chase, you can scroll to see the full list all the way at the bottom of this page.)
50.
Anna Burch
"St. Adalbert"
Released as a split 7-inch single with bandmate Fred Thomas, "St. Adalbert" is purely Anna Burch. She sounds heartbroken and lonely once again over a sunny, acoustic-driven ballad. A cut that sounds like a b-side from last year's Quit the Curse, "St. Adalbert" has some of Burch's best vocal leads ever recorded. Anna singing a little Irish prayer at St. Adalbert instead of singing an Irish goodbye may be one of the saddest yet cutest lyrical goodbye in 2019. Seemingly everything recorded outside of her debut album so far, including this one-off single, has been worth being placed on a full length record. "St. Adalbert" is one I wish wasn't too soon of a goodbye.
49.
Lillie Mae
"You Got Other Girls for That"
2019 has been a steadily great year for country music, especially whenever fiddle queen Lillie Mae decides to come forth with new music. Off of her second album, "You Got Other Girls for That" is Lillie Mae at her most outright and forthcoming, stating that she's only in this relationship for true love and nothing else. The instrumentation is brooding with intensity from the guitars and fiddle as they continue to rise in noise. Mae's vocals are weary and longing for something lasting worthwhile. I would argue to say that this is Mae's best song to date so far. It's by far her most powerful statement yet. Country fans and critics, please keep watch.
48.
Kim Gordon
"Air BnB"
To think that the 66-year old punk veteran and icon would release solo music in 2019 would be completely unexpected. To think that Kim Gordon would be writing a song about Air BnB would be even more drastic. It's really just modern subject matter that Gordon is coming across on her first ever solo album, No Home Record, and "Air BnB" is certainly one of her most appealing songs in her career. A very pop centric hook and chorus at its core, but full of loud guitars, abrasive noise, and Gordon's signature menacing voice. That's the classic Kim Gordon we know, but with a catchier and even more intriguing style. It was hard to pick just one Kim Gordon song to put on this list (every song on No Home Record is a gem), but I think "Air BnB" is a good choice. One song that kept me wanting to hit replay after each listen. Just one more time!
47.
Mannequin Pussy
"Drunk II"
A surprising cut for me. One: I found out about this single (and album) through several publications praising it. Two: the throat-shredding shrieks and the bubblegum pop chorus that evokes 90's/2000's radio pop. Three: the band name was a head scratcher to me at first glance. All in all, "Drunk II" is surely a fantastic highlight for me in 2019 that encapsulates all the genuine joy and dreariness of punk rock, noise, and catchy lyricism about wanting someone back. It's super short (almost too short), but its quickness doesn't exactly take anything away from the powerful and moving vocal performances and the hooks that will grab you on tightly, holding on for dear life.
46.
SASAMI
"Jealousy"
Sasami Ashworth made a great solo start this year with her debut record, SASAMI, a collection of moody indie rock tunes with dark tones and sad love songs. "Jealousy" is one of these tunes and its dark atmospheric synth passages backing Sasami's quietly ethereal vocals. "Jealousy" reminds me of how great artists like Angel Deradoorian are, who can create their own unique world of beautiful balladry with atmospheric synths, murky imagery, and gorgeously sinister vocals. "Jealousy" is just one of these highlights off of her debut solo album, surrounded by many of them. It was very, very hard to pick just one highlight from Sasami. It could've been the simple yet catchy guitar-driven "Morning Comes," the eerie yet beautiful skeletal ballad "Free," or even the hypnotically brooding closer "Turned Out I Was Everyone." I picked the first song that introduced me to how unique and mesmerizing Sasami is as a songwriter and musician: "Jealousy."
45.
Keane
"The Way I Feel"
After several years on hiatus and multiple separate projects from key members, the English rock/pop quartet Keane is finally back with new music. The first single to arrive, "The Way I Feel," is a return to form for Keane with newly added synths and electronics to boot. It's really the same meat and potatoes that we all (or most of us) enjoyed back in 2012 with their last album, Strangeland. The same piano backed power pop that Keane is really known for is here. The electronic grooves and added percussion are a nice touch. They don't overpower the main sound of the song. The electronic grooves on "The Way I Feel" aren't as refreshingly vibrant or captivating as they were on Perfect Symmetry over a decade ago, but what Keane fan can say no to Tom Chaplin's powerful vocal delivery over this liberating instrumental?
44.
Frankie Cosmos
"Windows"
I really do enjoy Greta Kline's observational wit, lack of confidence, doubt, and longing of love. She reminds me a lot of Courtney Barnett, but with even more youth and pep in her step. "Windows" is a sharp single for Kline, aka Frankie Cosmos. She's released a lot of strong singles in her short career, but I think "Windows" climbs near the top of her best material yet. A fully fleshed out single with plenty of air to breathe, Kline sings about looking out windows, the scenery of it all, waiting for her love to hopefully appear with the direction and guidance she needs. I also love the "spit out diamonds cough up rubies, call me when you can see through me" line. It's also one of her catchiest singles. The guitar lines and shimmeringly playful keys are joyful and captivating. Kline knows how to craft a really great indie rock tune that keeps the listener engaged with whatever Kline's ever changing thoughts are and what images are striking through her lens of vision.
43.
Aldous Harding
"Designer"
New Zealand-based singer-songwriter Aldous Harding keeps becoming more and more interesting and mysterious with each new release. "Designer," the title track off of her newest album, contains the gorgeously distinct singing that's come to be expected from Harding, along with a very pretty, infectious instrumental that's pleasantly easy to digest. The acoustic guitar, piano, and xylophone are very simple, expected and aren't necessarily crazy or different. The overall organic combination of these instruments and Harding's voice are fantastic, well put together and charmingly infectious, even though it's simple and predictable on the surface. I could've chosen "The Barrel" or "Fixture Picture," (both of which are fantastic singles), but Aldous Harding and her bandmates' charm on "Designer" really stuck with me throughout 2019.
42.
Jenny Lewis
"Red Bull & Hennessy"
Yes, Jenny Lewis's first single off of her latest album is in fact called "Red Bull & Hennessy." Take it however you like, but I'm not lying here. But take it beyond its title please, because the single overall is in fact fantastic. A hark back to some great 70's/80's radio pop rock, the song graciously digs deep and gets louder than expected with the guitars (the whole instrumentation, really). Produced by Ryan Adams, who has not had a great year, "Red Bull & Hennessy" (along with the rest of On the Line) overall sounds great. It sounds fresh, almost pristine even. It's polished, but not too squeaky clean to where it sounds disgustingly oversaturated. No, the song doesn't have the most lyrical substance either, but don't take that away from your enjoyment of the hooks, high pitched melodies from Lewis, or the massive guitar riffs near the back end.
41.
Jonas Brothers
"Sucker"
I'll tell you what, I certainly did not expect new music from the Jonas Brothers in 2019. If you told me that back in January, I would've thought you were crazy. The Jonas Brothers unexpectedly get back together after nearly a decade of silence, exploring solo efforts and various projects (both musical and entertainment). To guess that they would go for a reunion is one thing, but new music is certainly another. I was ready to cringe before listening to "Sucker," their lead single. Surprisingly, they really made an excellent pop song here. I mean, they have in the past, but I was expecting the worst modern pop tropes to be used in a horrendous way. But no, they use modern pop in a bright and colorful way that's quite tasteful. The handclaps, hooks, vocals, guitars (which are the selling point for this song personally) are all pretty great. It's one of their most well written songs too. They sound mature and each of their personalities show gracefully on the track, unlike the rest of Happiness Begins. "Sucker" is a solid pop gem that I'm grateful for.
40.
Coldplay
"Arabesque"
The final minute of "Arabesque," the first new material from Coldplay in three years, is quite the climax of sorts. Blasting horns and bass shatter your ears in pure bliss, with Chris Martin chanting inside your eardrums. It's pretty U2-like and that's no surprise. Everything else before the final minute is solid too, with Chris Martin strumming an acoustic guitar and singing about absolute togetherness and harmony. There is also a genuinely great sax solo in the latter half of the track as well. Surprisingly, the song is mostly an instrumental. Martin's lyricism is really a footnote and the steady groove-driven instrumental is the focus, which is fine. "Arabesque" is one of the very few complete, full, and fantastic moments off of Everyday Life, but it's definitely one that listeners shouldn't look over.
39.
Foals
"Sunday"
The majority of "Sunday," one of the later moments in Part 1 of their latest double album, is really gung ho about things, with Yannis Philippakis singing about having all his friends and not giving a damn about anything else. It's pretty youthful. Lyrically a little tacky, I'll admit, but the song truly has an epic feel to it, especially in the latter part of its six minute runtime. Once it breaks down into a guitar tinged dance track, though, I'm in. I'm strapped in because this is what Foals does best. They make great loud dance rock tracks and a couple minutes of "Sunday" is enough to scratch that itch.
38.
Melissa Millaseñor
"Shine"
When the SNL cast member's debut album of music arrived on my streaming service of choice, I was floored instantly. Not only by its nostalgic early 2000's pop rock influence, but Melissa Villaseñor's voice and her personality on these songs. "Shine" is one of those sunny, hopeful highlights off of Dreamer that I believe is pure bliss. It's pure sunshine. It's pure joy. It's a very cute, has a xylophone and what sounds like a recorder too. It sounds almost like it was made for a kid's TV show (which is a big compliment, I mind you). It's hopeful, bright, and positive. Although it sounds like it was made in 2006, "Shine" is lyrically something you can take true to heart, especially in such troubled times right now.
37.
Sturgill Simpson
"Sing Along"
Sturgill Simpson really changes with each new release and he definitely takes the risk of going full synth rock and ditching the country folk that put him on the map. The risk pays off with highlights like "Sing Along." The song drives through at full force and doesn't shy away from pulling its punches. Simpson over a loud groove and abrasive synths sounds like a futuristic robot apocalypse, which is exactly what the album is based on. The whirring synths, loud beat-driven groove, and Simpson's shouty vocal delivery definitely shows how versatile and unpredictable Sturgill Simpson is.
36.
Chance the Rapper (ft. John Legend)
"All Day Long"
2019 was definitely filled with hype for Chance the Rapper's long-awaited debut album, The Big Day. An album about love, marriage, fatherhood, and gratefulness opens up with a song about all of these things. "All Day Long," featuring John Legend on the hook, is a pretty explosive and inviting start of the album, with Chance exclaiming how grateful and excited he is for his day of marriage and love. The Big Day has several highlights in its lengthy track listing and "All Day Long" is most likely the best track on the album and my personal favorite. Chance really combines pop, hip hop and gospel into a pleasant and enjoyable fashion that is still just as colorful and playfully bombastic in its instrumentation as his previous material.
35.
Faye Webster
"Room Temperature"
Arguably the most relatable singer songwriter this year, Atlanta's very own Faye Webster pulls through with one of her best songs to date, "Room Temperature." One of the lead singles off of Atlanta Millionaires Club s shows off Faye's eagerness to socialize and get out more with sunny, swaying guitar twangs over a sunburnt instrumental. Wanting to go hang out with friends and socialize, but wanting to stay in alone is arguably the most relatable topic of not only myself, but this generation of kids. I've never related more to a single lyrically this year than "Room Temperature," and her personality and undecidedness is arguably one of her most intriguing features on record.
34.
Lambchop
"Everything for You"
Autotune and Josh simply don't mix. I've had my gripes with it in the past if you know me pretty well, but I do enjoy Lambchop's recent attempts at this on "Everything for You," one of the singles off of their most recent album (which I enjoyed favorably). Kurt Wagner's heavy usage of autotune on his vocals are certainly a sharp contrast to his normal voice, but this addition is a nice touch and treats the band's sound, on this cut specifically, as dreamy and ethereal. The hip hop inspired beats, moody piano, playful synths and sampled vocal bits enveloped around Wagner's autotune croon play together really well. It reminds me of some of the better solo songs from Damon Albarn's Everyday Robots, like "Lonely Press Play." The best song off of the new album for sure, "Everything for You" perfectly answers the questions, "what would Lambchop sound like in 2019?" and "what is the best way to create folk-tronica with autotune?"
33.
Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds
"Black Star Dancing"
Noel Gallagher goes full dance rock on "Black Star Dancing." It might sound like cringe on paper, but on record it's actually not bad. It's actually really enjoyable on this cut. The hypnotic, repeated groove that the song is built around sounds great and the hook is decent too. Not the best written song, but the backing female vocals and glistening production are nice. The gleaming guitars and drums go full on dance rock. The track itself could've easily been released ten years ago, but this still shines and sounds solid in 2019. It also doesn't sound nearly as creative or colorful as his last album, but that's ok. It would be interesting to see Noel Gallagher make a dance record though. It would be better than anything Liam has done so far solo-wise that's for sure...
32.
Avey Tare
"Saturdays (Again)"
The pivotable Animal Collective member hits once again with solo material and still is making striking work, "Saturdays (Again)" being one of them. The most compelling song he's produced this year, the song features light guitars over a hypnotic, murky groove that's pretty mesmerizing. The vocal delivery has Avey sounding like he's in a dream-like state, almost haunting the listener with his eerie, chilling voice. It's an immersive listen, especially since the acoustic guitars seem to envelope the listener. Arguably his best solo song in years, "Saturdays (Again)" is one you don't want to miss if you love Animal Collective and experimental psychedelia and folk.
31.
Lizzo
"Juice"
It's no question, but 2019 is the year for Lizzo. Her fun personality, her long-awaited rise to fame and stardom, her bombastic songs that you could not escape from. "Juice" for me is not only my personal favorite of hers, but it's easily her best single so far. It's absolutely entertaining from start to finish with her confident and funny lyrics and it also has one of my favorite lines of 2019: "somebody come get this man / I think he got lost in my DMs." Once you hear this line over the tropical drums and instrumentation, it's so colorful and nutty, how can you say no to this? Even the shredding 80's radio rock guitar is killer over Lizzo's swagger-infused delivery. "Juice" is so purely fun and exciting and it's easily one of the best pop singles of the year hands down.
30.
The New Pornographers
"Falling Down the Stairs of Your Smile"
Take The New Pornographers how you like, but this Canadian band is arguably the most consistent band during their career that currently spans over two decades. Whenever they release an album, there is always something to be excited for, especially their singles. "Falling Down the Stairs of Your Smile" is one of these singles. It's an explosive groove-driven tune that punches through the wall in its chorus of A.C. Newman and Kathryn Calder dueling vocals. It's the most modern sounding approach too, with its polished bass, keys, and drum machine claps. I love the more abrasive guitars, the perky and quirky bass and the added vocal woo's in the background. If anything, "Falling Down the Stairs of Your Smile" proves once again how well this band is at producing a great and well written song.
29.
Cage the Elephant (ft. Beck)
"Night Running"
A much more excitingly unexpected collaboration comes through with two of alternative rock's most popular names over the decade, being Cage the Elephant and Beck. "Night Running" didn't hit hard at first listen but really does with multiple listens. It's reggae influenced beat and Beck's singing-rapping is surely surprising to hear on a Cage the Elephant record. It's not really their style at all and really sounds like a Beck song more than anything. But, knowing this doesn't take away any of the fun of this track. Matt Shultz's vocal delivery on the chorus is great and so are Beck's lead and backing vocals. The shaded guitar riffs across the track are a solid detail too. "Night Running" doesn't change too much over the course of its three and a half minute runtime, but its infectious and louder than ever grooves keep me worth playing on full blast while driving at night (which the song clearly has been made for).
28.
Carly Rae Jepsen
"Now That I Found You"
It comes as no surprise that Carly Rae Jepsen's first single off of her latest album is a pure pop banger. Jepsen rides the waves off of her 80's pop influenced explosion of Emotion with lyrics of finally finding what seems to be the long awaited love you've been hoping for with an incredible chorus that will surely be in your head for days. I could've picked any song off of Dedicated honestly, but "Now That I Found You" is truly one of these powerful pop gems in her career that pull off the same amount of energy and fun as "Run Away With Me" or "Cut to the Feeling." A song that could've easily been a huge hit in the 80's seems to be a huge hit for fans Jepsen and radio pop alike.
27.
Cate le Bon
"Home to You"
"Home to You" is pure beauty from the multi-talented singer songwriter. Cate le Bon channels her inner 60's/70's rock icon while crooning over soft, melodic keys and a steady, galloping groove that just wants to take its own route. It's a dreamy, relaxed single that doesn't overstay its welcome whatsoever. Arguably one of her most engaging performance vocally, Cate le Bon invites the listener to stay in her own world of thoughts and desires. The song slowly progresses with more melodies, added harmonies, more inflections in her voice near the ending, making the single necessary for immediate replay value.
26.
The Mountain Goats
"Younger"
"Younger" is one of the many tracks off of In League With Dragons that is so satisfying instrumentally. The strumming guitars, steady drumming, plucky piano, subtle harmonies, and John Darnielle's recapping of stories in a D&D universe. The song reaches its high point once the explosion of sound hits with a stellar saxophone solo and the crashing cymbals. It's nearly six minutes in length, but "Younger" flies by as quick as a radio single does. Like "Sicilian Crest" and "Cadaver Sniffing Dog," "Younger" has an intense, brooding mood that keeps rising and rising until it finally explodes in great form.
25.
Stella Donnelly
"Tricks"
There were many, many songs off of Stella Donnelly's debut album that I could've chosen on this list. Picking one was certainly tough because she was able to provide so many cutely produced guitar-pop songs that sound playful and fun with a much cynical and funny twist to them lyrically. "Tricks" was by far the most infectious cut on Beware of the Dogs and my personal favorite of hers. She sings about acting like a pet, having to do tricks and being worn out from her owner (aka her partner). It's cute and charming with its guitars, sunny effects, and of course Stella's silly and happy mood throughout the track. "Tricks" also has my favorite line on the entire album, with Stella exclaiming "you're always one in a kiss and then you wanna get laid." It sounds like she is about to crack up throughout the song, almost about to break and laugh uncontrollably. Stella Donnelly's personality is very lovely to hear, especially on one of the most fun tracks of the year.
24.
Penguin Cafe
"At the Top of the Hill, They Stood..."
I'll say that the lead single from Penguin Cafe is the most moving and engaging piece that Arthur Jeffes has laid on record in his career. "At the Top of the Hill, They Stood..." is captivating with its subtleties and not necessarily needing to be too grand or epic. The fluttering piano over the quietly driving drum beat serve to be as peaceful as an isolated frozen mountain or a sandy desert. The rising accordion and strings playing throughout the track add enough intensity and emotion to be sincerely captivating and grows with each listen. This nearly six minute long single is a world of its own, regardless if you're listening to this on its own or in the context of the whole album. As far as classical ambient pieces go, "At the Top of the Hill, They Stood..." is the most solidifying song I've heard this year.
23.
Helado Negro
"Running"
"Running" is one of 2019's most stunning ballads from Roberto Carlos Lange. A moody piano-driven ballad which melodies keep you in a trance-like state. "You got me running, running, running, just like you" is one of the more memorable quotes on This Is How You Smile while the vocals are tender and endearing. All of his new ballads are stunningly gorgeous instrumentally and "Running" shines bright.
22.
Jay Som
"Superbike"
"Superbike" is simply quintessential indie rock. Jay Som's latest single is her biggest, most refined song in her career. Over a joyous and free wielding instrumental similar to that of any sunny and bright Cure single ("Just Like Heaven" maybe?), Jay Som sings about how freeing driving a superbike at 80 miles an hour during the late night hours can be. It's a gorgeously crafted pop song and is exactly what I want in guitar pop music. You absolutely cannot talk about this song without mentioning the massive guitar solo towards the end of the track. It's huge and mind melting. It will change you.
21.
Solange
"Almeda"
"Almeda" might be one of the more repetitive songs lyrically on When I Get Home, but her voice hits the listener in a trance with these lines. Some of my favorite lines of hers end up on the song, including "black faith can't even be washed away / not even in that Florida water." After she lists things that she describes as "black-owned things," she sings "black molasses, blackberry the masses" (another great line). It's definitely trap influenced and is an homage to southern black culture, just like the album it's on. Other solid moments on the album could've been my pick for sure, but "Almeda" seems to be the most memorable to me. Not just because of the catchy and glimmering instrumental that drew me in at first listen, but Solange's stunning performance. Her identity shines brightly all over this track.
20.
Lil Nas X (ft. Billy Ray Cyrus)
"Old Town Road (Remix)"
The biggest song and story of the year has to be Lil Nas X's "Old Town Road." Like it or not, you have to be enamored with the quick rise to fame that Lil Nas X has claimed, given that he dropped out of college and was sleeping in his sister's home prior. Buying an instrumental off from a stranger who sampled a Nine Inch Nails song, Lil Nas X created a perfect representation of country and hip hop colliding in both a polarizing and unique fashion that none of us have ever heard before. The music industry simply not categorizing it as a country song (which it clearly is) was ludicrous, leading to none other than Billy Ray Cyrus to hop on a remix to prove its credibility, propelling it to number 1 on the charts. It's a great underdog story, while the song itself is still a thrill even after hearing it a hundred times. The song itself is so entertaining and fun with its galloping trap instrumental and Lil Nas X crooning about Wrangler jeans on his booty and simple joy of riding on a horse. The first remix is arguably better than the many other remixes to come after it, with Billy Ray Cyrus singing on the hook while rhyming Fendi sports bras with Maserati sports cars. There's no question that you can't talk about 2019 without mentioning "Old Town Road." Lil Nas X proved to be the huge star that he's destined to be with simply one two minute song.
19.
Mark Ronson (feat. Lykke Li)
"Late Night Feelings"
One of the better and more glamorous disco numbers by Mark Ronson this year, "Late Night Feelings" has a fantastic vocal performance from Lykke Li. Great harmonies, swirling guitars and beats are all over the instrumental. There were some great guests appearances off of Mark Ronson's latest album like Angel Olsen on "True Blue" or Alicia Keys on "Truth," but Lykke Li's performance takes the cake for me on "Late Night Feelings." Mark Ronson turned Lykke Li into a 70's disco diva in modern romance times and I love him all the more for it.
18.
Beirut
"When I Die"
As spotty, half baked, and uninspired Gallipoli truly is, Beirut still seemed to have a select few captivating moments scattered throughout the album. "When I Die" is certainly one of these moments where the horn sections take over and become the selling point. Zachary Condon's voice sounds powerful over these ukulele strums the lonely drum beat that drives these horn sections to louder, more intense fashion really sends the song into a much higher quality than previous songs on the latest album. Condon's voice doesn't necessarily carry any lyrical chops that are all that compelling, but still carry a strong message to this intense instrumental. As early of a release as this was, "When I Die" is still a strong highlight that lingered throughout 2019 for me.
17.
Róisín Murphy
"Incapable"
The new single from the iconic Irish singer and dance pop artist is genuine and gorgeous. It's nearly eight and a half minutes in length, but don't let this intimidate you. Let Róisín Murphy fill you in on her inability to express, feel, or grasp love over a 90's dance-infused club beat that's both dazzling and intricate. Lyrically, she acts as if she is a robot, or an alien very new to the concept of love, but sounds genuine and heartfelt in her voice. The swelling synths are almost intoxicating and get more and more gorgeous with time. This song sounds like it could've easily been released back in the 90's. But in 2019, 46-year-old Murphy still sounds charming and definitely able to create strong dance numbers perfect for any club, regardless of what decade it is. Don't just listen to the much shorter three and a half minute edit either if you want to give this song the pure justice it deserves.
16.
Tyler, The Creator
"Earfquake"
A polarizing change in pace for Tyler, The Creator, "Earfquake" ditches the general rapping and goes for the heartbreaking pop song approach. With a high pitched vocal, Tyler sings about his heartbreak, personally apologizing and begging for his partner to come back. The song does have some rapping, Playboi Carti's fun guest appearance is strong. I love the powerful "don't leave it's my fault" line over fluttering synths and piano. It's a great pop song. A few years ago, if you told me Tyler was going to create this sharp of sad pop music like this I don't think I would've believed you. Regardless, I think Tyler has matured and has created music that's finally worthwhile, personal, and is only Tyler's to call it his own.
15.
Billie Eilish
"Bad Guy"
"Bad Guy" may in fact be the loudest quietest song of 2019. I know that doesn't seem to make any sense, but 18-year-old Billie Eilish has been able to create a unique sound of her own by combining loud simple beats with quiet whispers and hushed vocals. "Bad Guy" is one of the best examples of this combination of styles from her debut album. The single shows her as an intimidating villain and even sounds nightmarish in a way. Especially near the end, where the beat switches up into a darkened trap instrumental where Billie sounds like she's a demonized snake sneaking up on her prey. In a good way. There is good reason as to why this has been one of the biggest songs to come out of 2019. It's simply that infectiously enjoyable of a song, where its weirdness comes off as a charming feature within her album.
14.
Rozi Plain
"Conditions"
I'm so happy I found out about Rozi Plain's folk and pop songs earlier this year, especially with "Conditions." The London-based singer songwriter creates these breezy, calm songs on What a Boost that envelope over you like a warm blanket on a cold evening. "Conditions" is more of an experience than a song. Take the washing synths that slowly swarm over you like gentle waves or the swaying guitars that rock you back and forth like a rocking chair. Rozi's voice is so distinct and calm, it relaxes you to a dream-like state rather than lull you to a nothingness sleep. Near the backing end as well there are these harmonies that has Rozi bringing in her higher register that are absolutely fantastic. The song's atmospheric state is so natural and glooming it acts as an early morning sunrise. "Conditions" is not just one of the best songs from Rozi Plain, but of the year as a whole.
13.
Voyou (ft. Yelle)
"Les bruits de la ville"
I wouldn't have found out about Voyou, the French pop singer, if it wasn't for his duet with French dance trio Yelle, known as "Les bruits de la ville." I'm quite the Yelle fan myself, and I'm down for anything Yelle is a part of, especially projects with new artists I haven't heard of. Voyou is exceptionally fun, vibrant, and charming on his debut album, especially on this title track. Yelle fans shouldn't really be surprised at what you'll be hearing. It's a bass-heavy dance pop tune full of catchy hooks laid out in French with excellent trumpets circling throughout. It's colorful, bright, and purely fun. A graceful nod to some of the fantastic dance music Yelle have produced over the years, Voyou proves to be a great new addition to the French dance pop genre.
12.
The Raconteurs
"Sunday Driver"
After over a decade of absence, Jack White, Brendan Benson, and rest of the gang are back with new music as The Raconteurs. "Sunday Driver" is one of the first new singles to spring out into the public and it is a purely great rock song. It certainly has all the qualities of what makes a great Jack White tune so fun and special. Its grooves, guitar riffs, shouty vocals, and Beatles-like harmonies sound like a genuine classic rock song from the 70's. There's nothing really extremely different or experimental about the song compared to others, but there's a real pleasure and joy hearing the group rekindle the fire that was burnt out years and years ago, especially on a fantastic song like "Sunday Driver."
11.
Sharon Van Etten
"Seventeen"
"Seventeen" resonates as a classic, new wave pop song from the 80's with its driving piano lead over some blistering synths. Sharon Van Etten sounds better than ever. She is singing about if she could ever meet the seventeen-year-old who began her career singing in cafes and acting like a total hotshot, she would give her younger self the advice she's learned over the years as the matured veteran singer songwriter she's grown up to be. It's fantastic to hear her put her whole heart and soul into this track, especially once she gets into her higher register and starts shrieking that "you're just like me." It's as if she's just about to go into a mental breakdown. It's absolutely powerful and hair raising, making it one of the most emotionally captivating moments of the year.
10.
!!! (Chk Chk Chk)
"Couldn't Have Known"
The New York-based group perfectly captures the appreciation of dance punk and pop music that they've been performing for over two decades on "Couldn't Have Known." It's chaotically infectious and instrumentally sounds like it's a bright rubber ball bouncing off the walls uncontrollably. The sporadic and quirky guitars, catchy grooves, sharp melodies, glitchy sampled vocals are all here to stay. The beat switch up in the last minute of the song is insanely great, quickly turning into a hypnotic house banger. Nic Offer's boyish harmonies in the back end over this instrumental sounds like a late night sweaty dance party in a dark and isolated alleyway, just waiting to get sucked up by a massive black hole. It sounds crazy, but Nic Offer and !!! certainly do love to sound crazy.
9.
Battles (ft. Sal Principato)
"Titanium 2 Step"
Battles recently retained to a duo instead of a trio, but that doesn't stop the duo from creating bonkers music. "Titanium 2 Step," their first single in four years, perfectly incapsulates the raw, bustling New York scene. With help from Liquid Liquid's Sal Principato, Battles still sound colorful and chaotic with John Stanier's monstrous drumming and Ian Williams' sporadic looping guitars. Sal's shrieks over the track add more character and personality to the track, making this as fun as a bouncy castle on steroids. "Titanium 2 Step" is the closest thing Battles have made to sounding as exuberantly fun and wild as they did on "Ice Cream" eight years ago (which is still one of my favorite singles of the decade), while still adding enough new and exciting sounds altogether to keep things interesting and special.
8.
Black Midi
"Reggae"
Like many songs off of their debut album, Black Midi like to surprise the listener and provide twist and turns. "Reggae" isn't a single and doesn't exactly live up to the song's title, but it still is an explosive and wild performance that has some of the best vocals and guitar work on the entire album. The combination of post rock, noise, and Geordie Greep's creepy howls are pretty crazy and off the wall. Morgan Simpson's drumming is chaotic and animalistic and the added effects and noise capture the pure unpredictability that the band has. During their short existence as a group, "Reggae," like their other songs, certainly have the wildly surprising structure and stylistic shifts that the band is quickly making a name for.
7.
Tame Impala
"Patience"
In response to the long 4 year wait of new music from Kevin Parker, "Patience" is certainly worth the wait. Its loud, grand groove along with its bass lines is the best part of the single. The bongos, glistening piano recall 80's dance pop. The overall hooks and lyrics depict how fast time flies and how often we get confused over our perception of time. Unfortunately, "Patience" isn't part of the upcoming new album to be released next year, but it will always be a large part of 2019 for fans finally awaiting new music.
6.
Holly Herndon
"Eternal"
Leave the unexpected and challenging projects for Holly Herndon. On PROTO, her third album, Holly creates her own AI baby called "Spawn," which is a robot voice she created. Voices of "Spawn" are scattered all across the album, including "Eternal." This single is definitely Holly going toward more radio pop territory than she's ever gone, giving her most accessible hooks and melodies yet. The beats, vocals effects, bass, sharp keys are all loud, in your face, and explosive. It's glitchy, spacey, futuristic aesthetic gives off an out of this world, alien vibe. There's a lot going on all at once, so I wouldn't say that "Eternal" is for everyone. If there's any hint at what the future of pop music may be, try to give "Eternal" a listen.
5.
Deerhunter
"Plains"
The Atlanta band surprisingly bring in dance grooves on "Plains." The two minute track is the group at their dreamiest and there is a youthful, almost playful tone to the instrumental. Bradford Cox sings about listening to the train at night while seeing his friend ascend from glistening light. Or at least that's what I believe he is singing about? Regardless, "Plains" has such shimmering synths, bright pop leading vocals, and colorful percussion (from drums and bongos). It's pretty dark lyrically, but sunny, bright, and fun instrumentally. I've never heard Deerhunter sound so playful and sunny in a while (since moments from Fading Frontier) and I'm completely down for it. A pure delightful highlight off of their most recent album that reaches for the stars and successfully grabs at them.
4.
Kevin Morby
"OMG Rock n Roll"
"OMG Rock n Roll" is very simple on the surface. The classic rock guitars, drums, and Kevin Morby's repetitively simplistic lyrics as if he's reading a hymnal ("oh my lord, come carry me home"). But there's something elusive about the simplicity of the single until you read into some the lyrics. "OMG Rock n Roll" is about gun control and the disastrous impact mass shootings have had in this country and how common they have been in recent years. If Morby questioning, "why all the coppers / up in their choppers flying over my head?" isn't obvious enough, hear him counting the rising number of those who were killed: "26, 49, 58 dead." These numbers aren't just random; they are in fact the resulting deaths behind three recent U.S. mass shootings. 26 were killed in First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, 49 were killed in the Orlando nightclub, Pulse, and 58 were killed at the Route 91 Harvest music festival in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Hearing the song cut off into a gospel choir harmoniously singing this traditional hymnal Morby was reciting earlier sounded heavenly and gorgeous at first. But when taken into context of these shooting references, it's chilling and haunting rather than stunning, as if the choir is sending the listener to heaven. The song's peppy rock style suddenly cutting off sounds like one's life ending in a flash. It's shocking really, but just as shocking as hearing these deadly events in the news almost constantly in today's modern climate. "OMG Rock n Roll" is an excellent tune, regardless of context, having Kevin Morby push these religious themes to great lengths like he did on the rest of his latest record. But "OMG Rock n Roll" is an even more powerful testament as a whole; the message to take action on gun control, save lives, and make certainty that an event like these countless mass shootings would never happen again. If that doesn't stick with you, then I don't know what will.
3.
The Chemical Brothers
"Got to Keep On"
In a world full of problems, disaster, and hopelessness, The Chemical Brothers still know how to create songs that help one cope with all the madness. No Geography is an angry and loud record, but the duo knows to remind the listeners (and even themselves) to keep fighting, take action, and stay strong. And most of all, keep dancing. "Got to Keep On" is certainly one of the most blissful dance bangers the duo to be released this year. Based on a disco sample that repeatedly chants "got to keep on making you high," the single brightly leads one in the right direction with jabbing synthesizers, pulsating rhythms, and lush backing vocals from guest singer AURORA.
The glistening bells, driving percussion, and guitars perfectly embody the album's cover: a cloud in the shape of a happy face persevering no matter what is in front of it (in this case, it's an army tank ready to attack on full blast). The most striking moment in the track is the ringing noise over someone repeating "when the rain falls down like tears" that gradually envelopes the listener, becoming louder and louder and louder. It's pretty insane to hear every time you listen and it might have already bursted my eardrums at one point, but that's the risk I'm willing to take. "Got to Keep On" perfectly embodies the positivity and strength that we all need to keep in these tough times. Keep dancing, people.
2.
Anna Meredith
"Paramour"
The Scottish composer has outdone herself once again on "Paramour." The lead single off of her newest record is fantastically large and embodying, to say the very least. Anna Meredith has gradually gained an audience with her vibrant electronics and compositions. Her new record especially opens up to collaboration and performances as one cohesive band of people. "Paramour" is an excellent example of bringing in more instrumentation, more instruments, and more excitement. "Paramour" isn't necessarily as atmospheric or spacey as much of her previous material. She gracefully takes influences from post rock and math rock to heart, taking in these intense and odd time signatures to climactic measures.
I can clearly hear the gargantuan horns, drums, and synths colliding in the most fun and exciting way I've heard this year. The loud finish of abrasive guitars and heavy drumming remind me clearly of bands like Battles. The intensity of the machine-like grooves definitely give off the comparison. That band's crazy sound is taken into account in the best way, having Anna Meredith be able to put her unique spin on this style that she confidently owns. I swear, these climactic grooves and riffs sound as fantastically fresh and exciting as the first listen. I certainly didn't expect Meredith to go in this direction, but I'm so glad she did. She seems to be very glad too. It clearly shows on "Paramour."
1.
Vampire Weekend
"Harmony Hall"
Initially released in the middle of January this past year, "Harmony Hall" felt like an event to me more than just a song. The first song in six long-awaited years from New York-based Vampire Weekend absolutely lives up to the massive hype. Simply listening to the hypnotic dueling acoustic guitars that open the song up is an event of sorts. They sound organic and like they have a mind of their own, as if they are swirling up like a flower readying for Springtime. The single is pure sunshine. The snow has melted, the grass is appearing left and right. The single is ready to burst with joy and cheer (instrumentally, that is). "Harmony Hall" is a blissful piano-driven tune that certainly amplifies the rough times we are living in currently matched with the romantic mishaps of frontman Ezra Koenig.
It comes as no surprise that ex-member Rostam Batmanglij has a hand in the production. It sounds gorgeous and full of life. It's also no surprise about the faithful contributions from Mark Ronson and Dirty Projectors' David Longstreth on this song either. It's very Rolling Stones with the bright galloping piano and the shiny "ooh's" in its chorus, but also keep it modern with the lyricism. "I don't wanna live like this, but I don't wanna die" is arguably the best lyric of 2019. Yes, it was initially used in "Finger Back" in 2013, but I think the quote makes so much more sense bringing it back in 2019. I should also mention the swirling guitars that fly over its solo, the lively drumming, and the harmonious backing choir vocals throughout the track. The many uncertainties and certainties of the song matched with its grand, sunny beauty make "Harmony Hall" the biggest highlight of the year. Being one of the best written songs in the band's career, the group sounds much more mature and tightly knit than ever. Six years was a very long time in today's music industry, but I think it was necessary for their sound to blossom. "Harmony Hall" is the best example of their growth.
The Full List:
1. Vampire Weekend - “Harmony Hall”
2. Anna Meredith - “Paramour”
3. The Chemical Brothers - “Got to Keep On”
4. Kevin Morby - “OMG Rock n Roll”
5. Deerhunter - “Plains”
6. Holly Herndon - “Eternal”
7. Tame Impala - “Patience”
8. Black Midi - “Reggae”
9. Battles ft. Sal Principato - “Titanium 2 Step”
10. !!! (Chk Chk Chk) - “Couldn’t Have Known”
11. Sharon Van Etten - “Seventeen”
12. The Raconteurs - “Sunday Driver”
13. Voyou ft. Yelle - “Les bruits de la ville”
14. Rozi Plain - “Conditions”
15. Billie Eilish - “Bad Guy”
16. Tyler, The Creator - “Earfquake”
17. Róisín Murphy - “Incapable”
18. Beirut - “When I Die”
19. Mark Ronson ft. Lykke Li - “Late Night Feelings”
20. Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus - “Old Town Road (Remix)”
21. Solange - “Almeda”
22. Jay Som - “Superbike”
23. Held Negro - “Running”
24. Penguin Cafe - “At the Top of the Hill, They Stood…”
25. Stella Donnelly - “Tricks”
26. The Mountain Goats - “Younger”
27. Cate le Bon - “Home to You”
28. Carly Rae Jepsen - “Now That I Found You”
29. Cage the Elephant ft. Beck - “Night Running”
30. The New Pornographers - “Falling Down the Stairs of Your Smile”
31. Lizzo - “Juice”
32. Avey Tare - “Saturdays (Again)”
33. Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds - “Black Star Dancing”
34. Lambchop - “Everything for You”
35. Faye Webster - “Room Temperature”
36. Chance the Rapper ft. John Legend - “All Day Long”
37. Sturgill Simpson - “Sing Along”
38. Melissa Villaseñor - “Shine”
39. Foals - “Sunday”
40. Coldplay - “Arabesque”
41. Jonas Brothers - “Sucker”
42. Jenny Lewis - “Red Bull & Hennessy”
43. Aldous Harding - “Designer”
44. Frankie Cosmos - “Windows”
45. Keane - “The Way I Feel”
46. SASAMI - “Jealousy”
47. Mannequin Pussy - “Drunk II”
48. Kim Gordon - “Air BnB”
49. Lillie Mae - “You Got Other Girls for That”
50. Anna Burch - “St. Adalbert”
Honorable Mentions:
Cassius - “Calliope”
Chicano Batman - “Corazón De Roca”
Danny Brown - “Dirty Laundry”
The Highwomen - “The Chain”
Jenny Hval - “Ashes to Ashes”
Karen O & Danger Mouse - “Turn the Light”
M. Ward - “Migration of Souls”
Mountain Brews - “Mountain Brews”
Ra Ra Riot - “Flowers”
Rodrigo y Gabriela - “Echoes”
You can also listen to a Spotify playlist including the best songs of 2019 here:
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