Category Archives: Music

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Top 100 Songs of 2015 – Part 5 (#60-51)

60. Shy Hinges, Wild Sun

Westerly, RI’s Wild Sun has been around for a few years, and have been showcased on 95.5 WBRU’s Home BRU’d, and participated in their 2014 Rock Hunt contest. “Shy Hinges” is their single off their debut album, Little Truths. It is lively, upbeat, and refreshingly easy to sing along with. Their best work yet, and a sign that the guys of Wild Sun are more than capable of expanding their commercial success in the new year.

Do yourself a favor a check them out live. For a list of their upcoming gigs, check out their website.

59. Cool Kid, The Eeries

Not only do The Eeries look like they are straight out of the early 90’s Seattle grunge scene, they have the sound to fit right in. Tell me Kurt Cobain would not write these lyrics….

“Here comes the weekend/hanging out with my best friend/wish I was a cool kid/wish I was a cool kid…… aspartame/I like the buzzing in my brain.”

The Eeries have yet to release a full length album, but from the sound of their 5 track EP, they have potential to make some big waves on the rock charts in the coming years. This acoustic version of “Cool Kid” is fantastic (the music starts at :40), but the studio version is where it is at.

Who will love this track? 90’s rock fans, anyone that loves the weekend, cool kids, not cool kids, and of course, Kurt Cobain.

58. Hold Back the River, James Bay

In addition to his break out year in the States, James Bay found chart success in just about every country in Europe with “Hold Back the River.” Bay has also added to his best year ever by being nominated for three Grammy Award Nominations, including the dreaded “Best New Artist” category.

Bay’s gritty vocals and soulful musical style combine to create music that seems so mature that it is surprising that he is only 25 years old.

57. Waste Another Beer, Old Southern Moonshine Revival

https://youtu.be/NGSIXR36wgk

“Waste Another Beer” is a full-on break up song for the light hearted country boy. This concept is simple: the man has wasted so much time, money, emotion on his ex, and decided that he will not waste anything else on her, especially his beer.

Even country haters will likely find the track catchy and enjoy singing along. Old Southern Moonshine Revival is fun, and “Waste Another Beer” will get the party going, and keep the beers cracking all night long.

56. Nearly Forgot My Broken Heart, Chris Cornell

https://youtu.be/KhJ9IwYc5NU

At the age of 51, Chris Cornell has shown no signs of slowing down. This is most evident with “Nearly Forgot My Broken Heart”, the lead track off his fourth studio solo album, Higher Truth. 

Cornell’s voice, one of the most recognizable in rock music, is flawless. He packs so much emotion into each syllable as only he can do. Despite the fact that he has had a grimace on his face since the early 90’s, Cornell has made rock fans smile since the early 90’s. “Nearly Forgot My Broken Heart” is rock at its best, and Chris Cornell has proven why he is so great at what he does.

 

55. Don’t Wanna Fight, Alabama Shakes

Nobody mashes funk, soul and rock better than Alabama Shakes do. Lead singer, Brittany Howard is the queen front woman of modern rock. Her use of falsetto in “Don’t Wanna Fight” is downright epic.  Nominated for a Grammy for “Best Rock Song”, the rest of the field should have a hell of a steep hill to climb if they want to take the award from Brittany and the boys of Alabama Shakes.

54. Listen to the Man, George Ezra

George Ezra, the 22 year-old (!), yes that voice is coming out of a guy that was born in 1993, has found massive success in the States for his smash hit “Budapest” and more recently, “Blame It On Me“, which itself is a must hear song if you are not familiar with the track.

Ezra shows his playful side in the video for “Listen To The Man”, that is reminiscent of Paul Simon’s “You Can Call Me Al”, which insanely enough was released 4 years before Ezra was even born.

“Listen to the Man” comes across as a little “ditty”, but in true “ditty” form, is so pleasant and fun that if you don’t find Ezra to be a charming, young lad with the potential for a major music career ahead of him, you are a cold human being.

53. Angels Fall, Breaking Benjamin

“Angels Fall”, the second release off Breaking Benjamin’s fifth studio album, Dark Before Dawn, is about not giving up when all appears to be lost, says lead singer, Benjamin Burnley.

Breaking Benjamin have proven to be the kings of their genre and after 13 years and 5 albums, they are better than ever. “Angels Fall” will get your blood pumping, and your adrenaline flowing. It is pure Breaking Benjamin at the top of their brilliant game.

52. Hold On Tight, Greg Holden

Greg Holden, who co-wrote one of the best songs to come out of American Idol, Phillip Phillip’s “Home“, now has a hit of his own. “Hold on Tight” is an inspiring, uplifting track that send out the all-important message of not taking one’s life for granted.

“Why don’t you hold on tight, to what you’ve been handed. Because you just don’t know how long you will have it.”

Greg Holden is a triple threat with his vocals, instruments, and phenomenal song-writing abilities. Look for his continued success in 2016.

 

51. Mountain At My Gates, Foals

Formed back in 2005, Oxford, England band, Foals, have had success in the UK for years. But 2015’s “Mountain At My Gates” was the first time the band found a significant amount more success for a track in the States than in their home country.

“Mountain At My Gates” is produced with intricate perfection, combining a catchy guitar hook, stellar drum beat, and spot on vocals and blending them into a modern rock gem.

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Top 100 Songs of 2015 Part 4 (70-61)

Songs 100-91     Songs 90-81     Songs 80-71

70. Love Me, The 1975

“Love Me” is the first single off The 1975’s upcoming sophomore album due out in early 2016. The 1975 gained national attention with their 2013 self-titled debut album, and found great success with their hit single, “Chocolate.”

From the guitar hook intro, “Love Me” stands out from the rest of the songs on the radio today, and continues to demand your attention throughout the rest of the track. The bands name could not be more fitting, as “Love Me” will transport you back to the 70’s with their synth-pop rock, as this track in particular sounds like something David Bowie would produce today. In fact, David Bowie will be releasing his 25th studio album in January and has already released two tracks, in the event that anyone actually cares about 2016 David Bowie.

 

69. Made For You, Alexander Cardinale

Perhaps the most romantic song of the year, “Made For You” is bound to be the first dance at many wedding receptions this coming year. For all you non-romantics out there, if the song itself isn’t enough to induce nausea, the video should do the trick. Despite the God awful acting in the video, and the fact that the bench hasn’t moved in 80 years, the idea behind the video is touching even for the most miserable Grinch.

Regardless of your romantic side, Alexander Cardinale’s impeccable vocals and the songs catchiness collide to form a song that is nearly impossible to dislike.

68. Uh Huh, RØMANS

Looking at the lyrics to this song you would think it is a track off of Adele’s new album. But, fear not, this is no sappy break up song. If you gave Sam Smith a healthy dose of speed, I would imagine that this would be the type song that he would create. In fact, I challenge you to not think of Sam Smith on speed when giving this a listen.

The song begins with a saddened RØMAN, a 29 year old British singer, songwriter who recorded this track in his parents basement. When the calypso beat kicks in around the :55 mark, you quickly realize that this is no Adele/Sam Smith protégé and is in fact a unique, up and coming bloke from the other side of the pond presumably desperate to get out of his parents basement before reaching his thirties.

67. Another Night On Mars, The Maine

The Maine is an American rock band that formed in Tempe, Arizona back in 2007, and released American Candy, their fifth studio album back in March.

Whether you are in high school, college, your thirties, sixties, or anywhere in between, “Another Night in Mars” should resonate with some group of friends you have had during your life. Hopefully, they have not been forced to hold your hair back or drag you into/out of the shower one too many times, and came to the conclusion that being your friend may not be worth all the hard work and baby-sitting.

“Another Night on Mars” is a fun track that begs for a group of friends to form a circle, drape their arms across each other’s shoulders, and sway back and forth while completely butchering the words; preferably on a high school dance floor.

66. Honey, I’m Good, Andy Grammer

Was it one of the most overplayed songs of the year? Absolutely. But, was it also one of the catchiest songs of the year? You bet. From pre schoolers to the elderly, everyone loved singing along with Andy Grammer’s “Honey, I’m Good.”

The video features couples that have been together anywhere between a few months and 70 years, singing along and holding up numbers signifying how long they have been “committed” to each other. You can’t help but wonder how many wives forced their husbands to partake in the shoot, and how many of these people would actually say “no thanks, they’re good” to a hottie in a bar that wanted to hook up with them. But, it is a lovely concept, nevertheless.

 

65. Mess Around, Cage the Elephant

The first single off Tell Me I’m Pretty, Cage the Elephant’s fourth studio album (set for a December 18 release) is “Mess Around.” The album was produced by Dan Auerback, lead singer of The Black Keys, and it does not take a music expert to see the similarities. “Mess Around” could easily pass as a Black Keys song, but Cage the Elephant has just enough uniqueness and distinction that they make the song their own.

Because of the song’s “hang ten”, surf vibe, one would expect a music video along the lines of Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon in skimpy bathing suits gyrating on the beach.  The video, however, is basically a frightening “talkie” movie from the early 1900’s, which is bound to give you nightmares if you are anything like me.

64. Home, Dotan

Born in Jerusalem in 1986, Dotan Harpenau A.K.A. Dotan, grew up in Amsterdam and it wasn’t until he reached his twenties that he taught himself how to play the guitar and sing.

Known for producing his all of his own music, Dotan found massive success in Europe in 2014, particularly in Holland, with his hit “Home,” an upbeat track that sounds like it could be the latest Bastille hit. The build-up from the chanting of “we are coming home, we are coming home….” from the 3:07-3:51  mark is one of the most exciting parts of any song in 2015, and the climax of the song at 3:52 satisfies all the anticipation and all expectations.

While Dotan is not big in the States yet, expect “Home” to slowly gain exposure, and introduce the country to this brilliant singer-songwriter with the potential to make some big waves in 2016.

63. Saint Cecilia, Foo Fighters

Just when you thought the Foo Fighters were taking a break and resting their ailing bodies, not only do they release an amazing EP, but they release it for FREE, and dedicate it to the victims of the terrorists attacks in Paris.

The EP, Saint Cecilia was an impromptu recording session that happened as the band was staying at Saint Cecilia luxury hotel in Austin, TX. Saint Cecilia is the patron saint of music and poetry.

One may think that “Saint Cecilia” would not have the quality we have come to expect from the band, simply because it was “thrown together” so quickly. This is not the case, as “Cecilia” is loud, gritty, passionate Foo Fighters at their best, and proves that they are one of, if not the, best band making music today.

62. Let Me Down Easy, Sheppard

Before Australian band Sheppard found great success in the States last year with their hit “Geronimo,” the band released “Let Me Down Easy,” way back in 2012 (in Australia) on their EP Sheppard. The band finally decided to release it internationally in January of 2015, and while it did  not reach the level of success as “Geronimo” here in the States, it is just as enjoyable.

Despite the fact that it is about being dumped by a girlfriend, “Let Me Down Easy” may be one of the most fun songs of the year. Easy to sing along to, and upbeat, the song is bound to help you forget about all your woes, if only for a few short minutes.

61. Roots, Imagine Dragons

In one of their darkest releases to date, Imagine Dragons proves that they can do it all. “Roots” is about the highs and lows of being successful musicians, and specifically about finding an escape and remembering where you came from during a crazy tour schedule.

It lacks some of the pop-rock that Imagine Dragons may be known for, but in its place is a rap-rock sound that works, seemingly effortlessly.

 

Songs 60-51 Friday!

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Top 100 Songs of 2015 Part 3 (80-71)

Click here for Songs 100-91       Click here for Songs 90-81

80. Cut the Cord, Shinedown

Shinedown’s second song to make the top 100 is the lead single off their 5th studio album, Threat to Survival. According to the band’s Facebook page, the song is a “statement to the world that you will not give up, you will not give in, and you refuse to fail.”

“Cut the Cord” is loud, aggressive, in your face, and the type of track one would expect from the hard rock band. Even though it is a hard rock song, it offers a positive message to its listeners. In an interview with Billboard, lead singer Brent Smith said of the song…

“It is a wake up call reminding us all that we can control our own destiny by finding the courage and tenacity to destroy whatever it is that’s holding us back.”

“Cut the Cord” is a hard rock song that any music fan can appreciate and enjoy.

79. Get Closer, Life in Film

British band Life in Film has been together nearly 5 years, but just released their first full length album, Here It Comes. Their first single, “Get Closer,” is fast, upbeat, catchy, and according to the band, was written in just a few hours. Lead singer, Samuel Fry, told Interview Magazine that the song was written in reflection of “where he has been, and where he may be going next.”

If Life in Film can continue popping out hits like this in just a few hours, they will be going very big places for sure.

78. 2 Heads, Coleman Hell

Canadian electric artist, Coleman Hell had one “hell” of a year as his debut single blew up on the charts. He writes and produces all of his own music on keyboards and programs, and his “2 Heads” features the beloved banjo sounds without even using an actual banjo.

Besides having the coolest name in the business, Coleman Hell is a go-getter, releasing the song all by himself and having the song streamed nearly 10 million times before a record label stepped in.

He describes his music as songs that people will be able to dance to, but also have meaning to them. Coleman Hell has a style of his own, and based on his determination alone, should continue to thrive as a stand alone artist, with or without a record label backing him.

77. Can’t Break me Down, Billy Idol

Kings & Queens of the Underground, Billy Idol’s first album in nearly ten years (if you don’t count his Christmas album. Yes, Billy Idol released a Christmas album in 2006. I was just as confused as you are) was released in late 2014, as was this track.

Being 60 years old does not stop Idol from releasing “Can’t Break Me Down,” one of the best pop-punk-rock tracks of the year. The “BANG, BANG, BANG” chorus is more catchy than any Taylor Swift song, and more fun to sing than just about anything else on the radio this year.

Billy Idol still being alive is impressive enough due to the amount of drugs he presumably has done in his lifetime. But, the fact that he can come out with his best work since 1990’s “Cradle of Love” is a downright miracle. Clearly he means what he says, and nothing, not even decades of alcohol and drug abuse can break this rock icon down.

76. Fire and the Flood, Vance Joy

It seems that everything Vance Joy has done the past few years has been gaining the attention of an increasing amount of alt rock fans. “Rip Tide” introduced us to the 28 year old Australian singer-songwriter, 2014’s “Mess is Mine” proved that he was not a “one hit wonder,” and this years “Fire and the Flood” confirms that he has staying power, and is on the verge on becoming one of the biggest names in terms of male singer-songwriters.

While “Fire and the Flood” could easily be seen as a man creepily attempting to stalk the home of his ex-girlfriend, the pleasantness of Joy’s soothing voice makes it difficult to feel anything but sincerity and sympathy for the Aussie.

 

75. Stressed Out, Twenty One Pilots

“Stressed Out” is this years rap song for rock fans. It seems that each year there has been one “alternative hip-hop” track that makes a splash on rock stations across the country (i.e. any Eminem or Macklemore song), and Twenty One Pilots had that honor this year.

The song is about the nostalgia for childhood and the responsibilities of adulthood. While few people seriously long to be 6 years old permanently (I hope,) it is likely that many people wish they could go back in time and spend a few moments as an innocent child nestled in your mothers arms while she sings you to sleep, especially when your hectic adult life is not going so smoothly.

Twenty One Pilots are rap/hip hop/alternative rock with a pinch of pop. They have songs that will make fans of any genre turn up the radio when their music comes on, and they have fans of all ages slaughtering the lyrics to their brilliant tracks. Expect only bigger and better things from Twenty Pilots in the coming years.

 

74. Save It for a Rainy Day, Kenny Chesney

Fact: There is nothing on Earth worse than a buzzkill. Kenny Chesney is aware of this, and has written “Save It for a Rainy Day” as a reminder to all those buzzkills out there that want to ruin their friends good time. Chesney reminds us all to focus on the positive, and let your worries slip away, even if for a brief period of time, and especially if there are friends, sunshine, and beer involved.

“Why lose another beautiful day over something out of our control? Whether it is a girlfriend leaving, or a crumby boss, the reality is simple; they don’t care that they’re ruining your day. And they’re not, you are! It’s your choice how you’re going to feel… a lot more than any of us realize” says Chesney of “Save It for a Rainy Day” in a July 14, 2015 article with Rolling Stone Country.

Everyone needs more friends like Chesney, and less friends like their buzzkill friends.

73. Now or Never, Atomic Tom

Atomic Tom first burst onto the scene with 2010’s “Take Me Out,” and using just their iPhone’s performed the song on the New York Subway. The video, which should have WAY more than 1.2 million views, helped the band distinguish themselves from the rest of the alt-rick pact.

Atomic Tom has been relatively quiet since then, however, and one could have assumed that they were another alt rock one hit wonder. But, by the grace of God, Atomic Tom is back, and better than ever with their hit “Now or Never.”

The track, their debut single off their latest album ERA, which the band offered for just $1 for one week back in September as a thank you to their fans, is the epitome of modern day alt-rock. It is loud, catchy, and powerful. Atomic Tom is one of the best alt-rock bands around today, and as “Now or Never” gains more momentum, the band may finally begin to receive the recognition that they deserve.

(On a side note: If you can listen to their song “This is How We Like to End” off their debut album The Moment, and not instantly fall in love with it, you and I need to have a long conversation about what you are doing with your life.)

 

72. Like I Can, Sam Smith

“Like I Can” may be the most pop heavy song on the countdown, but it certainly has the potential to get the blood flowing and adrenaline rushing. It’s one of Sam Smith’s more upbeat songs, and in terms of meaningful lyrics, the song is as relatable as any other song of the year.

Much like Adele, Sam Smith has gone through some serious relationship heartaches, and I, for one, along with millions of other fans, couldn’t be happier about that.

The two artists have also given us the opportunity to hear every song they have ever written performed by just about every contestant that has been on any singing reality show the past 5 years. Jordan Smith and Regina Love’s performance of this song on this season’s The Voice, however, is one of the best. It took several hours to get through this episode because I rewound this performance and estimated 78 times.

https://youtu.be/hcNvyQIzE6s

71. Lampshades on Fire, Modest Mouse

And the award for the most traumatizing video of the year goes to…… Modest Mouse with “Lampshades on Fire.” Not since 1994’s “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden has a video been so shocking.

The song itself, an honest attempt at the band expressing their concern about humans destroying Earth, is surprisingly profound. If anyone can decipher the lyrics, there is a much bigger meaning to the song than just having a huge party and getting destroyed.

Goal of 2016: learn every word and sing it in karaoke without looking at the monitor once. If that doesn’t get a standing ovation from the drunk crowd (A.K.A. my friends) I don’t know what will.

Songs 70-61 Coming soon!