"Everything Now" by Arcade Fire
This new track is equal parts what you would expect from Arcade Fire, and equal parts what you wouldn't expect from Arcade Fire; which as a whole, equals fantastic music.
"Run" by Foo Fighters
Foos doing what they do best.
"Wall of Glass" by Liam Gallagher
Debut solo track from ex-Oasis member Liam Gallagher. Although Liam's look is a lot more modern here, the track has such a nostalgic feel to it, because his sound (still) has 90s britpop written all over it. Also, the way he approaches the mic by tipping his head to the side, is such a classic Liam move.
"The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness" by The National
What can I say? The National were my gateway band into indie music, and ever since I first heard them, I've never turned back. They're incredibly poetic, musical and they make the kind of music that stays with you, which is a beautiful thing.
"I Don't" by Mariah Carey feat. YG
You can hate on Mimi all you want; criticize her diva-ness, look down at her warped sense of reality. And sure, she's gotten a lot of flack lately, but no matter your opinion of her, you can't deny she can sing. This track is reminiscent of old school Mimi (circa 2005,) and goes to show Mariah isn't going anywhere (although maybe her lingerie needs to throw in the towel.)
"Believer" by Imagine Dragons
Imagine Dragons released this hard-hitting track as the first single off their forthcoming 3rd studio album, hopefully due out later this year. They definitely reconnected with their rocker-selves, and just let it all out here.
"I Give You Power" by Arcade Fire
Probably one of the more poignant tracks released this year from Canadian indie darlings, Arcade Fire. It helps that it comes along with a dope beat.
"Start a Riot" by BANNERS
What a treat it is to hear a band speak so sweetly about love.
"Take it All Back" by Judah & the Lion
These guys are great because they have a huge grunge-rock sound, with a country Tennessee twist on it. A band featuring banjo/mandolin, accordion plus the usual guitars/drums, makes for non-stop entertainment. Lead singer Judah Akers has a beast of a voice, which brings everything together.
"On Hold" by The xx
The xx is one of those bands that never ceases to amaze. The way they meld vocals, instruments and beats together is truly sublime, and incredibly unique. The xx is a sound in itself. However, this new track takes them on a bit of a different journey, as they sample Hall & Oates' "I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)" Hear for yourself.
"River" by Bishop Briggs
One hypenated word to describe this track: kick-ass.
"Holy Ghost" by BØRNS
Hailing from Michigan, BØRNS (aka Garrett Borns,) brings a deeply soulful voice to this love song. Lyrically, it's pretty heavily-laden with sexual inuendo. However, his voice along with the violins, add so much romance to it, you just can't help but swoon.
"Free" by Broods
This New Zealand brother-sister duo dropped this track as the first single to their new album Conscious. It's bold, loud, musical and best of all: anthemic. Feeling down in the dumps about a break up? Play this track - you will be cured.
"Way Down We Go" by Kaleo
A gritty growling Icelandic band, resurrect some old school rock 'n roll on this track. Raw vocals, simple lyrics and oh yeah: the video was shot live inside a volcano. No big deal.
"The River" by Leon Bridges
The imagery, the music, the feelings. Bridges says so much, by saying so little. More importantly, this 26-year-old from Texas has the ability to transport our souls back to the 1950's. It's too moving not to share.
"Mountain at my Gates" by Foals
Forget the infectious nature of this tune, and pay attention to the video. At first glance it doesn't seem like much, but wait there's more. If you're watching on a desktop, use Google Chrome; take your mouse or use the AWSD keys to move around. Or check it out on your phone, and get the full 360 experience. BOOM.
"Do You Remember" by Jarryd James
Another track that seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. The beat is addictive, his voice has some sort of powerful elegance to it, such that you can feel the music through his words. Very reminiscent of James Blake, but more accessible. What's fascinating is that he looks like a big tough buy, yet he has this gentle, emotive voice. Such a treat.
"Stressed Out" by Twenty One Pilots
A couple of young guys from Ohio, put forward this track, an interesting take on fame and fortune. They're basically saying now that they're somewhat famous, they're more and more insecure about their talents. It's catchy, part rock, part hip hop, and it'll probably stay stuck in your head for a good while after listening to it.
"Downtown" by Majical Cloudz
This track kind of came out of nowhere and landed on my car radio. It's the type of track that takes you on a journey through the layers of your mind. It also has an old school sort of vintage feel to it, automatically making you feel nostalgic for reasons you can't figure out. The vocals are inviting, the lyrics are so simple, yet so so perfect. Oh and they're Canadian too.
"Delilah" by Florence + the Machine
Florence + the Machine is one of the most artistic, musical, and captivating acts out there. Don't try and understand this video, just watch, admire, and enjoy the music.