Top 116 Songs of 2016, #40 - 31

#116 - 101

#100 - 91

#90 - 81

#80 - 71

#70 - 61

#60 - 51

#50 - 41

#40. HOLLA

by Lanks





But our love is what you wanna see
There's hope as long as you believe.

I had pulled up 'Holla' on YouTube and kept my headphones on, waiting for it to start while I sent a text message, when it suddenly occurred to me, why is Lanks talking to me about razors and bathroom habits? How does YouTube even decide which ad to show which person with what? I'm asking questions I can't answer. Contrary to popular belief, "Holla' is not an advertistment for shaving products, nor a gansta rap song. It is, in fact, a subdued tune, making me slightly sleepy on a week night, which is a lovely thing. Much more lovely than a razor to the face or the advertisements about them, thank you Lanks. (Jo Michelmore)

Oh, Lanks. You ain’t no hollaback girl. According to a Google search of ‘hollaback girl definition’ it means one who, “responds positively to the catcalls or hollers of men.” While Lanks is no hollaback girl, he is a creative music maker that never fails to bring a smile to our faces with his music. The project of Melbourne’s Will Cuming, Lanks built up a solid collection of releases throughout the year in the lead up to the release of his Viet Rose EP. It was ‘Holla’ that sparked our imagination the most and had us celebrating the many talents of an artist who continues to work hard and better himself with each new track. The build to the closing moments of ‘Holla’, as Lanks repeats the lines, “you’re not alone,” and “reach forward, holler out to me,” is too much. And too much is never enough when it comes to Lanks. (Matt Bond) 

#39. 10 FEET TALL

by OKENYO





Never gonna be the right time
Always got your feelings on the line... 

10 feet tall is quite tall you know, for those of us who prefer to use the metric system of measurement. As in, it's like almost three and a half metres, which, if one was to be 10 feet tall, one would spend most of their day warding off inappropriate jokes about the weather up there and the rest of the day bent over slightly, in order to hear the offensive comments from so far below. Therefore, one assumes that when Okenyo speaks of being 10 Feet Tall, it is meant in the figurative way, as in, invincible, not slightly Hunchback of ND. Which is funny, because Okenyo's '10 Feet Tall' is almost minimalist and so very smooth, her vocal shining bright and her beats almost floating, nothing at all as daunting as being 10 feet tall. (Jo Michelmore)

#38. A LOVE SONG

by Ladyhawke





You've opened my eyes to the oldest tale of time...

Now THIS is what a love song sounds like. It belongs in a movie, one of those scenes in the third act where the young lovers finally find their way back to each other in the most unrealistic fashion. The ensemble cast are all standing around with those stupid grins on their faces. Emma Stone’s laughing in the way that people do in ads where they’re having the best time with their salads. ‘A Love Song’ starts playing as the image freezes for an awkward amount of time before fading to black and the credits start to roll. I’ve got some attitude here, this is true, but this make-believe movie is something I’d watch over and over again with a tub or two of ice-cream. What isn’t make-believe is the talent that is Ladyhawke, delivering again and again with tracks like this that bring a smile to your face and put a song in your heart. With songs like this, you too can feel like you’re a character in your own amazing film. (Matt Bond)  

When 'A Love Song' was first released, it had been four years since Ladyhawke's last album, which means it had been four years since I heard those charming boys at Splendour, standing next to me in a pit at the front of stage, saying something along the lines of "oi she a bit of alright". Sigh. Three years later and we've still such a long way to go. Nevertheless, 'A Love Song' is exactly what we have come to expect from one of NZ's favourites; a super catchy chorus, some magical keys, percussion that forces one to move one's feet and a message much deeper than initially expected. Perfect pop in every single way. (Jo Michelmore)

#37. SORRY

by Babaganouj





Once upon a night at home, I sat in bed all alone
Thinking of things I wanted to say and how I never meant to go away.

The Nouj always have me thinking they could be characters in a children's story book, with such delightful names as Charles, Ruby and Harriette, I picture them in cute floral dresses and overalls, running amok amongst the gardens of the neighbours and generally getting up to no good. Alas, they are not and so we have Babaganouj and indie pop and lots of apologies and a really nice little drum break in the middle there. There's no need to be sorry Nouj, I like you in all versions of you. (Jo Michelmore)

Ruby McGregor took the lead on ‘Sorry’, the first single from Babaganouj’s second EP of 2016, Hard To Be. And so a rock star was born, but not really because Ruby, Charles Sale and Harriette Pilbeam were already stars, ‘Sorry’ just saw them shining brighter than ever before. They were like a big, grunge-loving star that shone over the universe, bringing joy to all with banging guitars and enough attitude to make Pluto take notice. Get it? Because Pluto isn’t just cool, it’s ice cold. I’m sorry, writing about 100+ songs means some of them are going to get the bad jokes and now I’ve embarrassed myself in front of Babaganouj and I’ll stop. So much love for ‘Sorry’ and our fave Brissy three-piece though. (Matt Bond)
 

#36. COME ON MESS ME UP

by Cub Sport





I found comfort
I fell in love with avoiding problems.

For Brisbane’s Cub Sport, 2016 was like their graduation year. With past releases, they maintained a fun-loving vibe that can only come from a young band at the start of their career. But now they’re a little more grown up, they’ve had time to experience life for what it is and as a result their sound has matured beautifully into the songs that made up their debut LP, This Is Our Vice. Songs like ‘Come On Mess Me Up’ that hold a vulnerability and honesty that elevate them far, far above your standard pop. Love is the central theme of most songs in the world. But very few will look at what love is in a realistic way. The ones that do will hit you hardest and this right here is one of them. This year Cub Sport went from that Brisbane band everyone bopped along to with glee to a world class indie band ready to conquer whatever comes their way. (Matt Bond) 

#35. LOST

by Ariela Jacobs





Prepare a cup of coffee for another night of sleepless times
So I can blame the caffeine, for giving me time to think.

They say it so easily, it just rolls off the tongue, as easy to say as any other, and they say it makes you do crazy things, think crazy thoughts, accept less and expect more. We are all desperately trying to find it, keep it, know it, define it, hold it up high and somehow also hold onto it. But if it's so common, if we are so entwined in the pursuit and property of it, then why is it so hard? Is it actually anything at all or is it just a fairytale, a story passed down generation by generation and really nothing at all? The answers are not the same, the thoughts are only one's own, but is it really something we can find, this love we all speak so highly of, or is it actually just a temporary way to feel a little less lost? Ariela Jacobs knows what it is and it's one and the same thing. And it's also responsible for the souvenirs of self destruct that burn up in my head. It's not the right thing to do. (Jo Michelmore)

Speaking of our favourite songwriters, here’s Ariela Jacobs with her second gem to make our 2016 countdown. Part of me wants to ask Jacobs to stop dragging my heart around like this, but then the smarter and highly aggressive part of me is like, “you right, m8?” because when music can move you in the way that ‘Lost’ will, you’re never going to want it to stop. The delivery of these thoughtfully selected words comes from a place of hurt, confusion and a love that could very well still be there. Suitably, our leading lady finds herself as lost as the title would suggest and for anyone that’s had those sleepless nights with all those thoughts running through your head you spend all day trying to keep as far away as possible, you’re going to remember the times you’ve found yourself lost too. This is an amazing song from an exceptional talent that I want to hear so much more from and hopefully sooner than later. (Matt Bond)  

#34. WILD EMOTION

by Asta





Don't tell me it's not real
Don't say it's only physical.

YESSS, ASTA. A million times Y-E-S! Like a force of mighty fine/disco-inspired nature, Asta slayed with the total jam that is ‘Wild Emotion’. Try not to put your hands in the air and wave them around like you just don’t care while you listen to it. You can’t, can you?! No. No you can’t. ‘Wild Emotion’ was pure pop perfection, ready to lift you up at a moment’s notice with its ‘against all odds’ disposition. This should have been a #1 hit on charts worldwide, but Asta’s day will come. With songs like ‘Wild Emotion’ to her name, she won’t be denied for long. (Matt Bond) 

Is it possible for this song to get any catchier? Nope. Is Asta the answer to all my dance electro pop needs? Yes. Why is it that disco seemed so lame for so many years? No one knows. With a bunch of handclaps smashed in the middle there, it's pretty much impossible for me not to love this song. It starts as suddenly as it gets stuck in your head and if anyone has the ability to sit still while it's playing, I suggest they lay off the valium. Was this song built for happiness? Yes. Yes it was. (Jo Michelmore)

#33. HIGH TIDE

by Bec Sandridge





It's high tide, I know that this will break us
It's high tide, I know that this will change us.

Have you had a chance to listen to Bec Sandridge’s In The Fog EP yet? You haven’t? Go and listen to it now please. We can wait. You have listened to it? You’re awesome and might I say congratulations for having such a fabulous taste in music and you look lovely today. I think if someone came up to me in real life and was like, “have you heard that new Bec Sandridge EP? Isn’t it the flipping best?!” I’d be all, “yeah it is and now we are friends for life, do you enjoy espresso martinis and eating your feelings at four in the morning too?” Convoluted introductory sentences aside, I’m trying to get across how much love I have for Bec Sandridge’s music. You’ll only need one listen of ‘High Tide’ to get it. It reaches a part of your brain that’s reserved for only the finest of tunes. The ones that make you wonder how someone could possibly come up with something that captures everything you love about music. If you still haven’t gone off to listen to the In The Fog EP, do yourself a favour and do that right now please and thank you. In the meantime I’ll whip us up some caffeinated dranks and get us a bucket of fried chicken. Because we are now best friends. Yay! (Matt Bond) 

#32. COAT

by Jack Colwell





Oh, all good things
Must come to an end.

I think I will always love Jack Colwell. He has the ability to make the goosebumps wash over, ask all the hard questions, light all the lights and then provide all of the answers with every track he writes. He is pop star, he is tortured artist, he is a humble fan and he is so, so talented. With a voice from another world, 'COAT' is as dramatic as it is breathtaking and as tragically sad as it is inspiring and it is alive in a way only Jack Colwell  can bring to life. I haven't said this about anyone yet, but here's hoping we see so much more of Jack in 2017. (Jo Michelmore)

One of my favourite live music moments of 2016 was finally getting to see Jack Colwell live when he supported Sarah Blasko at The Tivoli in Brisbane. The entire audience was captivated by Colwell’s artistry as he put his heart and soul into his performance. And that’s exactly what he puts into all of his music; all of his heart and all of his soul. His background in classical music allows him to orchestrate songs that are passionate, dramatic and cinematic and those three words are perfect when describing ‘Coat’. Running a four minute emotional gauntlet that’s heavy on the type of anger that could only be caused by a broken heart, ‘Coat’ evolves from lover scorned to the quiet relief of saying goodbye. That final line, “you don’t see me,” is delivered in such a devastating way that you’ll find yourself heading back to the start to experience ‘Coat’ and all of its wonders all over again. (Matt Bond) 

#31. NOT MY FRIENDS

by Tired Lion 





Look at the people just lying around
To get you back up they just pull you back down.

I'm not much of a TV watcher, so I'm not going to pretend I understand half the references in Tired Lion's clip for 'Not My Friends', but I do understand a good rock song with a huge hook and I totally understand crunchy guitars and a big bassline. I also understand the concept of desperately needing to fit in with people who don't deserve the title 'friend' and I'm pretty lucky to now understand how pointless that need can be, which means I have actual friends that I adore and I like this track more now than I would have in some of my past existences. Also, on a side note, one of those friends of mine and I happened to wander by Tired Lion on the street as they were filming this clip late one night. If you look closely enough you can see us trying to be calm in the background. Maybe. (Jo Michelmore)

 

Top 25 - 22 November, 2016

Mark Harding + Cloves!

1. The xx - On Hold





2. Mark Harding - Say It Too (NEW)





Jo's Pick of the Week: Look, I'm not gonna lie to you, I'm probably biased. No, let's face it, I am biased, but that's fairly irrelevant when the song I'm biased about really speaks for itself anyway; that song being 'Say It Too' by a guy called Mark Harding, who may not be a household name (yet) but after hearing this track, he's a name in my household and he's gotta start somewhere I guess. Thankfully Mark's start has been a little more interesting than my little house, because as an intergral part of Little May's lineup I am (more than) slightly biased in saying he's pretty much already one of our faves, but the beautifully smooth beats, the completely laid back sensation and his delightfully subdued vocal make this a song I actually, genuinely like and I'm not gonna lie, no bias needed, it's a song I can feel myself beginning to love very, very quickly. (Jo Michelmore)


3. Washington - Saint Lo





4. Cloves - Better Now (NEW)





Matt's Pick of the Week: I was introduced to the music of Cloves in the way I'm introduced to many of my favourite new artists... while a fictional character I had come to love more than some of my best friends was ripped away from me on one of twenty five four or five television programs I should be embarrassed to admit that I watch. Emphasis on the should be. Anyway, less about TV shows about vampires directed at people at least fifteen years younger than me and more about Cloves. Hailing from Melbourne and now living it up in the USA, Kaity Dunstan/Cloves has been working hard to build a name for herself as a singer/songwriter on the rise. 'Better Now' features a voice full of wisdom far beyond Cloves' twenty-something years, the words and music are as gorgeous as they are heartbreaking from the very beginning ("Then I hear you leave, and I'm happy, just for a moment I'm free, then it dawns on me, that no time has passed, now it won't last, and I'm getting nowhere fast, and that's a fact."), there's fire in the chorus and a hope that we'll be hearing more of this from an artist of Cloves' caliber for a long, long time to come. At the very least, I can look forward to hearing her music during some forced emotional moment between a witch and sea monster on a television show that I would actually watch and what were we talking about? (Matt Bond)


5. Tkay Maidza - Simulation





6. Holy Holy - Elevator





7. Kate Bush - And Dream of Sheep (NEW)


 


8. WAAX - Same, Same





9. Pnau - Chameleon





10. PASSERINE - Undergrowth (NEW)


 

11. Gin Wigmore - Dirty Mercy (NEW)


 


12. Katy Steele - It Ain't Me





13. Moreton - Specimen





14. Asta - Shine (NEW)


 

15. Broods - All of Your Glory





16. Iluka - Blue Jean Baby (NEW)


 

17. Bag Raiders ft. Mayer Hawthorne - Beat Me To The Punch (NEW)


 


18. Lossy - You Who's Guiding Me





19. Sarah Belkner - Cellophane





20. I Know Leopard - Rather Be Lonely





21. Alex The Astronaut - Already Home





22. Mr Little Jeans - Stitches





23. Ariela Jacobs - Leave Your Light On





24. Tired Lion - Agoraphobia





25. Alex Lahey - Let's Go Out

Top 115 Songs of 2015, #100 - 91

MKO SUN, Big Scary, Alabama Shakes + FKA Twigs!

#115 - 101

#100. SPEAK EASY

by Mansionair

Come and keep the dialogue

Will it ever be enough?

It was devastating to hear about Snakadaktal's split last year. Easing that pain was an introduction to the music of Mansionair, who create the same kind of perfectly chilled and atmospheric indie tunes that make you want to get in your car, drive to the beach and watch the waves rolling on in. Unless you live across the road from the beach and you can just walk over. Good for you. 'Speak Easy' won the Sydney trio a ton of fans the world over, with a lot of love coming from punters that got to see Mansionair supporting Chvrches on their recent European tour. Not a bad gig at all, I'd say. (Matt Bond)


This one is one of those ones that hit you right at the very beginning. Maybe it’s just me, but those first sounds make me wonder what’s coming and those words are far too relatable to let this one pass by. The massive chorus sits perfectly side by side each restrained verse and I kind of wonder how an act can come up with a song that sounds so natural, like they’ve been playing together for a hundred years. Maybe a hundred is an exaggeration. But about a hundred years is how long I could listen to these kinds of tunes. Looking forward to following Mansionair’s career for the next hundred. Maybe a hundred is an exaggeration. (Jo Michelmore)

#99. DON'T WANNA FIGHT

by Alabama Shakes

Why can't I catch my breath?

I'm gonna work myself to death.

I love this band. They’re not one of the ones that I scream from the rooftops about, but they are one that I am always excited about, one that make me rush to download whatever it is they’ve released, one that I wait for the next project from, one that make me stop in my tracks whenever I hear their incredible sounds. They are a band that defy the norms of the craziness that the music industry seems to be, because they just play their rocky blues in the heartfelt way rocky blues should be played and they keep on doing their thing (not literally) quietly, while the crazy world of all the others rushes by them. I love them because they are here for the music. How do I know that? There’s only one way to tell; press play. (Jo Michelmore)


Alabama Shakes launched their second LP Sound and Colour with their funkiest jam yet, 'Don't Wanna Fight'. It would take the album straight to the top of the US Billboard 200 and it only takes one listen to understand why. Brittany Howard kills it with a vocal performance that falls somewhere between Stevie Wonder, Erykah Badu and latter-day Prince. But we already knew Howard had one of the best voices in the business going in, right? While listing off all the reasons she doesn't believe she can fight anymore, it's the performance from Howard and the rest of Alabama Shakes that shows they've still got a few more rounds in them. (Matt Bond)

#98. HEAD IN THE SAND

by Bright Spark

All around

They're all the same and we've got no one to trust.

Stepping into the solo spotlight in 2015 was Melbourne's Steven Clifford. Best known for his work as the front for The Hello Morning, he emerged under the moniker Bright Spark and released a couple of tracks he collaborated on with producer Oscar Dawson. Dawson's done wonders with artists like Holy Holy and Ali Barter over the past couple of years and he continues the trend with Bright Spark. 'Head In The Sand' is like an Australian reinvention of that classic Americana sound and there isn't a better dude for the job than Steven Clifford. We were only treated to two tracks this year from Bright Spark. Hopefully there'll be a whole lot more coming soon. (Matt Bond)


So this guy that is Bright Spark has one of my very favourite voices in all of Australian music. Seriously. You know those people that just have voices made for music? He has it. Who is he? Steven Clifford, who also happens to be the vocalist for a band I fell in love with a couple of years ago; The Hello Morning. And ever since I found them, I have declared Mr Clifford to have the voice of a gravelly voiced angel. With his solo project, Bright Spark, he explores a slightly lighter side to his musical journey but that voice is what holds it all together. Just awesome and yep, still one of my favourites in all of this big country of ours. (Jo Michelmore)

#97. DYNAMITE

by Asta ft. Allday

Been taking my time not thinking about you

Just walking my mind, walking my mind.

Now, I don’t mean to turn this all around and focus on us for a minute, but you know what makes me happy about this little blog of ours? The teeny tiny part we’ve played in hearing artists like Asta, whether that is through an email we’ve received or (more often than not) trawling the internets in search of magic, and then writing about them and therefore making other people hear them too. Asta was always going to be popular, that voice of hers was destined for pop greatness and her ability to make stand out super catchy tracks like ‘Dynamite’ means she has a long, fabulous career ahead of her. When this blog is long gone, it’ll be nice to leave a little electronic footprint of loving artists like Asta along the way. (Jo Michelmore)
 

Love a bit of Asta. And I say a bit, because it feels like 'Dynamite' came out seventy-five years ago (March 2015) and I'm dying to hear more from her and I know she's been busy recording new material but I want to hear it nowww. What? I'm a product of the world we live in now and it's not my fault I'm impatient. Part of the problem is, Asta's music is really, really good. Music like 'Dynamite'. And I want to hear more music like 'Dynamite' and more music from Asta. Now. Please? At least I'm polite, jerks. (Matt Bond)

#96. FIGURE 8

by FKA Twigs

You're so fucking fake that it's hurting me

I'm just jealous cause you're more alive than what I'll ever be.

I love songs that make me slightly uncomfortable, that make me want to explore them and figure them out like a good little mystery. FKA Twigs ‘Figure 8’ was one that required commitment, but that’s kind of what I liked about it, it’s sparse production and un-natural twists and turns made it one I liked to get inside and claw my way out of, not what I was expecting from her but not surprising either. She’s one of those artists who is always going to get my attention with tracks like this and moves like that, because I always like the artists who push the boundaries, but only just slightly.  (Jo Michelmore)

FKA Twigs might get written off for being a bit of a weirdo, but who would she be if not the fabulous weirdo she is? She has a unique way of taking conventional R'n'B and Hip Hop motifs and masking them behind gritty and dark beats of a more trip-hop design and this shines through on 'Figure 8'. Take away the distortion and all of the electronic bells and whistles and focus on Twigs' vocal lines. Gorgeous. But what's the fun in being conventional? FKA Twigs is certainly not looking for any association with the word. I'm sure her fans are most appreciative. (Matt Bond)

#95. BACK TO YOU

by Mio ft. Erik Lindestad

Take me to the sea let me rest my head

All my burdens lifted or so I, so I pretend.

There are songs that make you stand up and dance and there are songs that make you sit goddamn down and listen. ‘Back To You’ sits in the latter camp; it is understated and delicate and somehow strong and forthright in the same few minutes. Its synths are subtle but its vocals are strong and its production is absolutely spot on. There are songs that make you sit down and listen and then there are songs that make you get up and hit repeat, because a couple of minutes of this much goodness is nowhere near enough. (Jo Michelmore)

#94. HYPNOTIC

by Zella Day

Magnetic everything about you

You really got me now.

I can't stand the video for this song. Had to get that out early. But the song, oh... the song. It really lives up to its name. Confident, catchy and chock full of repeat value. Zella Day is still building her pop profile and gems like this are going to go a long way in establishing the Arizona artist as one of the next big, bright and young things out there. (Matt Bond) 


If you’re like a modern day cowgirl and you wear backless tops and you meet a modern day cowboy with hair blowing in the wind and a bare chest, riding a white horse through the desert, beware that A) the horse he is riding will be tired and thirsty and want to drink from your bathtub later on, which is gross and B) tell your cowboy friend to leave his hat on. He’s more attractive with headwear. I’ve got absolutely no idea what’s going on in this film clip, but one thing is for sure, if you wear that few clothes in the desert, you’re likely to get sunburnt. Good song though. (Jo Michelmore) 

#93. ORGANISM

by Big Scary

Always hoping that you combat distraction

So I can distract you.

After spending last year as a #1 Dad, Tom Iansek got the band back together in 2015. And by band, I mean he grabbed Big Scary's other half, Jo Syme and the two got started on making people smile and love their lives and this all resulted in 'Organism'. Which totally made people smile and love their lives. Not only the song, but the clip too. Pay close attention to the stellar choreography. So stellar. While I can't say for sure, my poor attempts at research (aka Facebook stalking) have led me to conclude that Big Scary will be releasing a new album in 2016. If it's in line with 'Organism', I'm already on board. (Matt Bond)

#92. SACCHARINE (REWORK)

by Quintessential Doll

Saccharine, does the sweetness make you sick

I'm so tired of all the lies, of all the lies.

The orchestral sounds in this track by Brisbane’s Quintessential Doll are really what make it everything it is, because there’s always something effective about placing sounds together that don’t naturally seem like they’ll fit. Like salt and caramel. Who would have thought? Steph Lindsell, that’s who. Great production, some interesting lyrical themes and a slightly spooky film clip make Q Doll one to watch in 2016. (Jo Michelmore)


Brisbane's Steph Linsdell (the Quintessential Doll herself) delivered the good on more than one occasion this year. First there was her collaboration with Clio Em, 'Thunder Gods' that we couldn't get enough of and then along came her rework of 'Saccharine'. It's one mighty fine slice of dark electronic pop. If it was a cake, it would be a black forest cake. Why? Um... because it's dark and sweet and delicious and because it just is. It's also criminally under-appreciated in the cake world and Quintessential Doll is in the same position in the music world. Extraordinary talent and a hard work ethic will make sure that it's only a matter of when, not if, for Quintessential Doll. (Matt Bond)

#91. BLACK SEAWEED

by MKO SUN

Let these bleeding, crying eyes

Show the pain I keep inside.

Once upon a time (in the years 2013 and 2014), I loved this Brisbane group called MKO. Hannah Macklin, Steele Chabau and Myka Wallace had it going on with breezy, electronic numbers dripping in soul. Macklin's voice was most pleasing to the ear. Then, 2015 came along and MKO decided to become MKO SUN. MKO SUN decided to say, "fuck it, let's be superstars!" They leveled up to 99 and started slaying left, right and centre. First would come 'Black Seaweed'. It is, how does one say, all kinds of amazing? Yes. Yes that's it. There's nothing else quite like it out there in the music landscape. If you think the MKO/MKO SUN story is good, wait until you hear the music. Words do not do its wonders justice. (Matt Bond) 

MKO SUN is someone from our hometown that we’ve loved for a while and I’ve liked pretty much everything she’s been playing with over the last few years, but this track is the one that really made me think “I knew it! I knew that girl was capable of greatness!” The orchestral arrangements, the strings and the chorus of melodies offering a safe place for that incredible vocal of Hannah Macklin create a beautiful piece of experimental pop slash part 90s r’n’b slash electronica slash amazingness. And I haven’t even mentioned the delightfully weird clip. Amazingness. All of it. This girl is capable of so much greatness and this is still only the beginning. (Jo Michelmore)

*pew pew* We're back again tomorrow to send you into the weekend with #90 - #81! *pew pew*

 

Top 25 - 1 March, 2015

Asta, Karl S. Williams + Lurch & Chief!

1. Tired Lion - I Don't Think You Like Me





2. Tkay Maidza - M.O.B.





3. Lurch and Chief - Fading Out (NEW)





4. OKENYO - Just A Story (NEW)





 5. Our Man In Berlin - Moliere





6. Big Smoke - Try A Little Love (NEW)





7. The Rebel Light - Strangers





8. Florence + The Machine - What Kind of Man





9. Karl S. Williams - Is This Love? (NEW)





10. James Chatburn x Jordan Rakei - Holiday Love





11. Passerine - Set Me Alight





12. Ainslie Wills - Drive





13. Asta ft. Allday - Dynamite (NEW)





14. Sarah Belkner - Humans (NEW)





15. Big Strong Brute - Wedding Pages





16. Little Earthquake - I Am Alive (NEW)





17. Chris Watts - Broken Bones





18. Lanks - Hold Me Closer (NEW)





19. Gena Rose Bruce - Cheated





20. Taylor Swift - Style





21. Passion Pit - Lifted Up (1985)





22. NYUON - Your City





23. Best Coast - California Nights (NEW)





24. Wolf Alice - Giant Peach (NEW)





25. Winterbourne - Steady My Bones

2013 Scene Awards - Woman of the Year

The Women of 2013: Lorde, Janelle Monae, Miley Cyrus + Ngaiire.

Yesterday it was the fellas, today it's the ladies. And if there's one thing It's My Kind of Scene loves, it's the ladies. Woman of the Year is arguably our favourite award of the year to give out and since we have far too many lady loves, we super size this one. Instead of our standard five nominees, here are ten women we believe delivered some incredible music into our lives this year. Enjoy!

WOMAN OF THE YEAR:

#10. Alison Goldfrapp

From the first listen back in 2000 to the cinematic/cabaret drenched ‘Lovely Head’ I have had a deep resonating love affair with the music of Alison Golfrapp and Will Gregory. Album by album they’ve kept surprising me, impressing me, challenging me, stimulating me and inspiring me, to an extent few other long serving musicians have. When the rumor came of a 2013 album I was for some reason nervous, I didn’t know what to expect. Could they pull off another dance album? Is it going to be another folk experiment? Would they still be my faithful friends? I couldn’t have possibly known how much I would feel for this new album, Tales Of Us, although yet again Alison Goldfrapp has spoken to me on another level.

You know how a best friend or close family member can just seem to know what’s best for you when you need it, finish your sentences, or even just smile at you knowingly so words aren’t needed? Goldfrapp represent that kind of relationship to me. When I rebel unnecessarily they pull me back, when I need to talk but have no words, they provide the knowing smile, when I’m drowning in my own doubt they free me. It’s amazing how human experiences when shared through music, fictional or fact, can resonate flawlessly with the experiences of another, sometimes finishing the puzzle, other times adding the first piece. Goldfrapp have been my confidante through thick and thin and this friendship is one I hope will last a lifetime, and Tales Of Us resonates this feeling in its stories and videos. You needn’t doubt what they create just know that it’s what you need, when you need it. 

The fact that Alison has been able to maintain my love over 13 years of changing music, different experiences and changing tastes is quite remarkable. Especially seeing, as I don’t necessarily feel the need to stay faithful to musicians from one album to the next. Alison is a rare creature in the “fast food” style music industry and a goddess among her contemporaries. Amen my goddess… Amen. (Nayt Housman)

#9. Iggy Azalea

Amethyst Amelia Kelly is better known by her stage name Iggy Azalea. With a name like Amethyst it should come as no surprise to you that she hails from Mullumbimby, New South Wales. She’s been in the press this year for flashing her box after a bit of a wardrobe malfunction at the MTV European Music Awards, and for not twerking on Robin Thicke during their performance of ‘Blurred Lines’ at the same awards show.

Iggy Azalea has been working away feverishly the last couple of years after basing herself in the US. However the fruits of her labour are now starting to show. Earlier in the year she released singles ‘Work’, ‘Bounce’ and ‘Change Your Life’, all set to appear on upcoming album, The New Classic, due for release in 2014. Hell, even golden girl Beyonce invited her to perform as the support act during her recent Australian tour. 2013 has been a defining year for Iggy Azalea, placing her on the map – not only with a huge fan base, but also amongst her peers. (Katie Langley)

#8. Michelle Xen

Oh Michelle you fabulous creature, a neon vision of power, control, creativity and vitality. With one large sweep of her elaborately dressed limbs and an impassioned expulsion of air from her lungs I was enthralled. Still a relative fledgling in terms of her career, this is one woman who has the sound and the drive to go places. Armed with an electro-pop arsenal of songs inspired by the the arts, electro doyennes like Roisin Murphy and Alison Goldfrapp and music pioneers such as Grace Jones and David Bowie, but not bound by the ideals of any, gives Michelle Xen a sound that is no only accessible but danceable, intriguing and super fierce. She has razor sharp aesthetics and a stage presence of a performer who’s been in the biz for 20 years. I implore you if you get the chance to go see her live, do so, and before you leave buy her two EPs, Synasthesiac and On For You. The later being her current EP and one which really showcases Xen’s delicious sophisticated DIY electro pop at it’s best. It consists of 5 singles with five videos which will slowly be released over the next six months. 

Yep... I nommed Michelle twice! Why? Because she is THAT good! Deserving of being my woman of the year because never has a performer restored my faith in a particular genre of music that I thought was nearly dead (especially seeing as she is a local in my lil city of Brisbane) until now. (Nayt Housman)

#7. Asta

Perhaps it was seeing this amazing songstress live that led me to naming her one of the women of the year. Or perhaps it was her standout single or that amazing film clip that accompanied said single. Either way, Asta is a force to be reckoned with. She writes songs that catch you like magic gossamer hanging off a branch of a tree. Her web is a concoction of delicate melody mixed with lyrics so catchy you can’t help but dance along singing out to the sky. Asta finished 2012 with the accolade of winning Triple Js Unearthed High. And deservedly so. It's hard to believe that this artist is relatively young when you listen to her beautifully crafted pop. Barely a school leaver and bam! Asta gives us a single to die for in 2013. The electric 'I Need Answers' – which has been one of my top song choices of the year (and came in at number 23 on our 2013 countdown) just stroked my ears in the right way. There is something almost timeless about this track with its haunting lyrics sung so beautifully mixed with just the right hint of electronic and thrown into a cool mass with a tight backing band.

And then there's this artist live. The prowess that Asta creates onstage is usually one that takes years to create. I was lucky enough to see her play in October in Melbourne (see review for a flashback!) I cannot wait to see where the future leads this amazing songstress. And I simply can’t wait for more music to come from her creative soul. (Lou Endicott)

#6. Thelma Plum

By now, if you’d been reading any of our Top 113 songs of 2013 (ok, even if you only tuned in for the really important top ten) you’d have a small idea of how much Matt, Katie, Nayt, Lou and myself all like (ok, I’ll say it, I adore) Thelma Plum. That alone should be a testament to her talent, because we’re a diverse lot and don’t all agree on a lot of things. She’s been nominated for numerous awards, performed at numerous festivals, toured nationally and been awarded for her incredible song writing talents - all of this after releasing only one six track EP, but what an amazing six songs they are. 

 From the incredibly catchy and upbeat ‘Around Here’ with the best sing along ending of the year (maybe ever?), to the best clap along of the year (maybe ever?) in ‘Dollar’; Rosie demands attention from the very first notes. The emotions felt in the dramatic storytelling of ‘Father Said’ and the journey she takes us through on the title track ‘Rosie’ are songs that some musicians take a career to find and a lifetime to write. Thelma Plum managed to find those emotions, write them and record them before her nineteenth birthday. All of this and I haven’t even mentioned the two heartbreakers, ‘King’ and the incredible, ethereal, mature and tear jerking ‘Breathe In, Breathe Out’, which is a song that I personally can’t imagine living without. 

I kind of feel weird talking about Thelma as one of the women of the year, because her talent is such that it transcends gender, I feel like we should be talking about her as ‘Artist Of The Year’ instead, but we haven’t made up that award yet, so maybe she can inspire it for next year. Thelma has already proven what an incredible woman she is and if this is just the start of her career I’m so very glad I was introduced to her talent now, because 2013 has been so enriched having her music in its soundtrack and with her kind of talent, she has such a bright future ahead I know there’ll be so many of her songs to appear on my own life soundtrack, as six of them already have. (Jo Michelmore)

#5. Miley Cyrus

If 2013 proved anything for Miley Cyrus it’s that she can’t stop, and she won’t stop. This was the year that she shook off any association to Hannah Montana. I think she shook it off as she bent over, twerking in Robin Thicke’s face at the MTV Video Music Awards. That image is burned on my brain forever.

Yes there was twerking, yes there was the tongue hanging out at every photo opportunity, yes her relationship with that cute Liam Hemsworth ended. And then there was that whole open letter writing saga with Sinead O’Connor. But despite all of the scandal, despite all of the drama, Miley had a lot of musical success this year with her album Bangerz. Sure, she rode around near naked on a wrecking ball and licked a sledgehammer (no wonder the video had 19.3 million views on Vevo in the first 24 hours of release) but ‘Wrecking Ball’ reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. That’s no mean feat.

It might not be to everyone’s taste, but is shaking your booty really that controversial? Is sticking your tongue out really that controversial? Love it or loathe it, Miley Cyrus has re-invented herself. But best of all, she has the voice to back it up. I for one can’t wait to see what she gets up to in 2014. (Katie Langley)

#4. Laura Marling

There is little that British artist Laura Marling does that I am not totally in love with. Her mastery as a song writer was already shining when she was still a teenager (when I first starting listening to her). This year marked the release of her fourth album, Once I Was An Eagle. And it will go down in my books as one of my all time favourite albums. It was nominated for The Mercury Prize for best album (UK and Ireland's most prestigious music award – and a better alternative to the Brit Awards). David Bowie was also nominated. Just saying: good company to keep!

The album, which dances somewhere between country, rock and folk is a modern concept album in three parts (marked by three separate tunings). Marling described the album as a journey of one character who experiences the gamut of the emotions of love. Many of the songs blend into each other. The album is guitar and vocal driven, with elements that feel like a film underscore. Marling’s voice is the hero and her supporting stars a clear and expertly played acoustic that dances back and forth to complex rhythms that excite me in a way that can’t be described, only felt.

Marling follows no leaders in her field. She is a revolutionary of sound and skill. Her work is always original and she bravely steps forth with her roar and creates new and interesting music for fans like me to lap up. (Lou Endicott)

#3. Ngaiire

I've had a lot of lyrics stuck in my head throughout the year. Most are too embarrassing to even mention, but there's some from Ngaiire that always pop up. "We only die once not twice, so call off the fire brigade, douse me in kerosene, turn away the rescue ships, anchor me from my hips." Those haunting lines from the the track 'ABCD' have stuck with me since I first found myself listening to the incredible debut album Lamentations. While they're definitely of the somber variety, I love each time they show up because I remember how fantastic Lamentations is and how thankful I am that Ngaiire got around to releasing her debut this year. It's one of my favourite releases and I'd go so far to say that it's my favourite Australian LP of 2013. 

Ngaiire spent the year releasing music so different from everything else coming out of Australia. She's stepped into a higher class of musical company in the future soul category. Beautiful tracks like 'Around' and 'Count To Ten' are all the proof you need of that. Her artistic vision is realised perfectly throughout the album, but the video for 'Dirty Hercules' is something everyone should be taking notice of and its challenge of the notion that women need to constantly be competing against each other. She hoped that the video would be as empowering for other women as it was for her filming it. From the ladies I've spoken to about the clip, she succeeded. 

Lamentations has made a lot of people pay close attention to Ngaiire. Triple J have gotten behind the singles, Alica Keys is a new fan after Ngaiire took to the stage to support her and John Legend, the album has ended up on a slew of end of year lists and the Lamentations tour has been getting well deserved killer reviews. What comes next? Well, I'm not too sure, but I know it's going to be amazing. As a music maker, Ngaiire was one of 2013's finest and she was absolutely one of the greatest women of the year. (Matt Bond)

#2. Janelle Monae

"The hardest working woman in show business." David Letterman was clearly impressed when Janelle Monáe broke it down on his show with 'Dance Apocalyptic' in September, just days before the release of her acclaimed sophomore album, The Electric Lady. He wasn't the only one that was left stunned by the insanely talented pocket rocket from Kansas City, but the acknowledgement from a man that has seen countless music stars perform on his stage over the years that Monáe is the hardest working woman in the entertainment industry was very cool. The following month, Billboard named Monáe as their 'Rising Star', an award previously bestowed on female artists like Lady Gaga and Nicki Minaj. This recognition from one of the world's largest music organisations is nothing to scoff at. Given the career trajectories of the previous winners, it's somewhat of a seal of approval. Not that Monáe would be sitting around craving anyone's approval. She paves her own way. Janelle Monáe celebrates individuality and being true to yourself without forcing the message down her audience's throats. Her personal mantra is 'be unique' and she lives up to that each and every day.

As far as positive role models go, there's no one finer in the music industry. And I'm not just talking about role models for young women. Monáe is a fine role model, period. When explaining her now trademark black and white fashion (generally of the suit variety), she described it as paying homage to her working class roots. Her parents worked in service roles and Monáe herself worked as a maid. The black and white is a uniform, one she wears proudly to remind herself she has work to do and a reminder of where she comes from. "I don't ever want to be detached from that. I use it as motivation for my music and to just keep me centered, grounded and to stay on message." She's as humble as she is talented.

Of course, what really makes Janelle Monáe a worthy woman of the year contender is her music. The Electric Lady was one of the best releases of 2013 and saw Monaé step outside her funky future soul comfort zone to explore a whole host of new genres; from old Hollywood style compositions, jazz, Jackson 5 inspired pop and she even mastered the ancient art of the slowjam on 'Primetime'. That was one smooth song. She brought in collaborators that have both inspired her (Prince, Erykah Badu) and stand beside her as incredibly talented emerging artists (Solange, Miguel and Esperenza Spalding), but there was little doubt as to who the star of the show was. It was all about Janelle Monáe and I wouldn't have had it any other way.

"March to the streets, 'cause I'm willing and I'm able, categorise me, I defy every label, and while you're selling dope, we're gonna keep selling hope, we rising up now, you gotta deal you gotta cope, will you be electric sheep? Electric ladies, will you sleep? Or will you preach?" (Matt Bond)

#1. Lorde

Woman Of The Year and what a year it has been. When we here at It’s My Kind Of Scene were discussing the Scene Awards and Woman Of The Year, I actually had a really hard time trying to figure out who I thought we should be talking about. 2013 has been a year that has been filled with all sorts of talk about women in the music industry, so many I’d like to name and we’ve only highlighted a few in this list. Some have been amazing, some have been controversial, some have been amazingly controversial and others have been simply outstanding. There is one who is barely able to be called a  woman, at seventeen years old, but just by being herself and being sincere to her own ideals and talent, she’s probably been more outstanding, articulate and mature than a whole bunch of other women in the music industry this year (hello Sinead).

Her name is Ella Maria Lani Yelich-O'Connor, but we know her as Lorde and what a year it has been for this unassuming but fabulously self-assured New Zealand girl. We knew things were going to be good with the release of her EP late last year, but I don’t think anyone had an idea of just how good she could be or how much impact she would have in such a short space of time. Pop music is an interesting thing, because while it can be super fun and party and “exciting-woo!” it can also be super considered, thoughtful and moving and Lorde this year took us from the “exciting-woo” in pop to the thoughtful and then right back to the “exciting woo!” again. ‘Royals’ was the smash that took her from NZ obscurity to international stardom, but it’s the rest of her debut album Pure Heroine and her live performances that have ensured she is not a typical pop star (hello Taylor Swift) and not a carbon copy rebellious pop star (hello Miley Cyrus) and while the minimalist approach to song was one that became more and more of a ‘thing’ in 2013, Lorde has had a way about her that seems much less contrived and less image conscious than some others the past few years (hello Lana del Rey) and more just her natural state of being.

We could talk sales, we could talk tours, we could talk fame, but really, the most special and stand out thing about Lorde is her talent and undeniable ability to let her music speak for itself. This is a music blog, so enough chat, if you are unsure why we chose Lorde as our Woman Of The Year, I’m just going to leave you with the lyrics you might have listened to a thousand times but never actually heard, written by a teenager, but so very relatable, like all good pop music, to those of all ages and places, in whatever way you want them to be; “And we'll never be royals, it don't run in our blood, that kind of luxe just ain't for us, we crave a different kind of buzz…” (Jo Michelmore)

2012 Winner:

Amanda Palmer

Runner-Up: Santigold

2011 Winner:

Kimbra

Runner-Up: Adele

2010 Winner:

M.I.A

Top 113 Songs of 2013, #30 - 21

Our Australian idols: Texas Tea, Asta, Ella Hooper and MTNS!

#113 - 101

#100 - 91

#90 - 81

#80 - 71

#70 - 61

#60 - 51

#50 - 41

#40 - 31

#30. Lost Track of Time

by MTNS





When all is said and done and there's nothing I can do,
Can't take back what I gave you. 

MTNS. If there's one thing I hope to remember about 2013, it's stumbling across the amazing little band that MTNS are. I don't care whether I heard them first, or saw them first, or jumped on a bandwagon before it was a bandwagon, what I mean is this: there's a goosebump feeling I've mentioned so many times on this blog, it's a feeling only certain music can create, it's a special something at the back of your neck that runs down your spine and it's a comfortable feeling that sits on your shoulders, it's a feeling that can't be recreated with anything else but the songs you adore. 'Lost Track Of Time'; in all its beats, in all its lyrics, in all its simplicity is a song that makes me feel everything...and nothing. It fills my heart but leaves me empty, in the most calm and serene way and there's only special songs that can do that. I adore this song and I think I might adore MTNS too. (Jo Michelmore)

I’ll disclose first up that I was a little sceptical of this song after a not so great live experience with MTNS at BIGSOUND. In hindsight, my experience wasn’t ruined by any doing of the band, but rather the 500 (or what felt like 500) photographers that were blocking my view. I understand now why they were there – MTNS are good. I’m glad that I’ve had an opportunity to revisit ‘Lost Track of time’. It’s a really smooth, chilled out track. Looking forward to catching MTNS again live sometime in the near future! (Katie Langley)


Cool, breezy, confident and bubbling with a quiet sense of optimism, 'Lost Track Of Time' feels like a reflective stroll down a long winding road at sunset. A lush atmospheric soundscape creates a daydream feel that seems to be a running theme in a lot of indie music this year, surely taking cues from the likes of Bon Iver and Sigur Ros. The simplicity of the track gives it both serenity and an undertow of sadness helped along by Tom Eggert’s surprisingly angelic voice, which feels endearing and warm but at the same time melancholy, meshes beautifully with sparse beautiful instrumentation. (Nayt Housman)


MTNS have enjoyed a deserving rise in popularity with this track and have been getting equally deserving positive reviews. I hope to see them expand and achieve success in 2014. I adore this dream pop track from Brisbane band MTNS. It somehow got stuck in the back of my head a while ago and I couldn’t figure out what the song was or where I heard it. Kind of like a dream that you almost remember. 'Lost Track of Time' haunted my subconscious. One mad evening I went searching through all my playlists from the year trying to find the song that needed to be heard. I couldn’t remember the name of the track, the band or the lyrics. Just a high falsetto voice (was it male? Was it female?) singing something like “I …. track….of..” and a cool rolling electronic drum. I ended up walking away resigned to not knowing the song and made dinner instead. Suddenly it hit me. “MTNS!!!!” I yelled out. I abandoned my cooking plans and yes, found this track. As it turns out, I should have asked my housemate Mish. Turns out she is friends with the band as well as the person behind the dreamy clip shot in New Zealand. (Lou Endicott) 

#29. Haxan

by Ella Hooper





Too hot to handle,
Too cold to taste... 

2013 may have come and gone without the release of Ella Hooper's first solo album, In Tongues, but she kept her fans temporarily sated with 'Haxan' the follow up to last year's 'Low High'. This new track continued the possessive theme of the body being taken over by external forces introduced on the latter song and it is a monumental achievement from Hooper. 'Haxan' has all the qualities present in the great, timeless rock songs. A hint of mystery, attitude and sex appeal in both the music and vocals, stellar lyrics with lines that ooze a 'cooler than cool' feel and, to provide that modern touch, a perfectly crafted music video to accompany it. There's several sides of Hooper that emerge throughout 'Haxan', with my favourite still the lower registered "and of all your blessings" incarnations. Hers is a fiery, almost vengeful, performance. Ella Hooper continues to be one of Australia's greatest rock artists, even as she explores different facets of the genre. Everyone will say I'm biased because I've been a Killing Heidi fan, Verses fan and now solo Ella fan (and there was that time I asked her to marry me and she pretty much said yes... don't be jealous), but even with artists I've followed and enjoyed throughout long term careers, I'm not one to excuse musical missteps when they happen. Ella Hooper's yet to make one and from what we've heard of In Tongues, I'd say that's not changing anytime soon. Hopefully we'll get to hear it early in the new year. (Matt Bond)   

  

FINALLY we got to experience Ella tackling a solo project this year and 'Haxan' was the second single from her still yet to be released debut album, In Tongues. Released earlier this year, I wasn’t sure what to expect from 'Haxan', but it proved to be powerful, dark and beautiful. Facing darker themes with a darker sound, Ella seems more at home than ever. Electric organ, tinkering drums and dirty electric guitar introduce Ella’s mournful crooning, casting her spell and luring us in with her dark torch song. “I slip under the spell, the further I fell, deep, deeper down” is chanted throughout the chorus, while in the video Hooper dances like Stevie Nicks in a dark grass covered opening amongst the trees. Gyrating, twirling and ‘feeling’ the love of nature, while the mist surrounds her, I can feel her curse affecting change within me, I’m reminded of how I felt listening to Max Sharam’s ’95 album A Million Year Girl. It’s that same sultry, sinister but oh so good vibe. It’s good to have you back and better than ever Ella Hooper and if you ever marry our editor, Matt, then I gladly accept you into our IMKOS family, sister. (Nayt Housman)


Ella Hooper is one talented lady, with that talent absolutely oozing in ‘Haxan’. There’s a slow, moody seductiveness to this track, and Ella lures me in like a temptress. It’s simple, but hypnotic. As I watch the film clip, with Ella unleashing her flower power in a field, it’s clear that I’m in a complete trance. Awesome! (Katie Langley)


Western guitar twangs with hot swirly keys, synthy builds and Ella Hooper’s husky voice? Yes please. This song is sultry through and through. The clip is a simple but effective one. It features Ella dancing at night in a field in a floaty floral dress amidst bursts from a smoke machine. It’s dreamy, well put together and a gem of 2013. (Lou Endicott)


I’m going to use this review as a chance to admit something and apologise about something. When Matt was super excited about hearing a new track from one of his favourites, Ella Hooper, I knew it would be a good song, because sometimes (often) Matt and I have similar taste, but I thought he was probably exaggerating how good it was, after all, he’s a long term, big big fan of Ella's, so what would he really know? I’m so sorry editor, I should have taken you more seriously, because ‘Haxan’ is more than I could ever have imagined. A tale of spells and spooky things, the song is fabulous and the clip is divine, so very beautifully shot. It’s all very dark and moody and brooding and it’s somehow simultaneously uplifting at exactly the same time. Kind of like Matt. Maybe? Anyway, as Nayt mentioned, if all of Matt’s dreams ever come true, I’m totally bridesmaid. Or best woman. Either/or. (Jo Michelmore) 


Things that I am not... moody, brooding and uplifting. So that just makes me dark. (Matt Bond)


Admittedly, everyone was pretty excited when Matt got to pose some questions to Ella Hooper, one of his favourite artists ever, midway through the year. She told him about both her solo releases...


Ella: They both had the slightly darker, noir-ish feel I wanted to lead with. Though the album has more shades to it than that, i wanted to begin quite starkly, I guess to highlight the contrast between this project and what I've done before, which has often been quite lush and/or busy. This bunch of songs are a lot more streamlined. Plus, I think Low High is pretty catchy and I do love a good pop hook after all.


And she didn't actually say no when he asked her to marry him (so there's still hope, maybe)...


Ella: Well, I am recently single!! (haha)

#28. Autopsy

by Astrid and The Asteroids





Five knocks on the doctor's door,
Don't know what I am asking for,
But I don't feel fine. 

I really love this band. Apart from the tongue in cheek song ‘West End’ and the heart wrenching ‘House of Cards’ this track ‘Autopsy’ illustrates just how clever the band are at crafting beautiful pop tunes. This song really gets my head nodding with its catchy upbeat chorus. And I am sucked in by that music box intro. Astrid Jorgensen’s voice is a versatile instrument that I love listening to. She sings with heart and conveys lyrics with a sensitivity and power that can’t help me think that with a front woman such as her this band has an amazing future ahead. (Lou Endicott) 

‘Autopsy’ covers some fairly sinister material, but is delivered in a dramatic up-beat way. There’s almost a kind of circus feel to the track and at points it feels fitting for a creepy clown. It’s a really unique song and allows Astrid to showcase her vocal range. (Katie Langley)


Astrid And The Asteroids certainly haven't allowed themselves to be pigeonholed in 2013. One minute they're taking the piss out of a well-loved Brisbane suburb, the next they're breaking my heart in ballad and then? Then they manage to somehow make a song that simultaneously makes me want to dance and think. The quick beat and catchy keyboards draw you in to a world of movement, but it's the lyrics that catch your heart; "cut me open when I'm gone, tell my mother I am sorry I could never be a better son....in another life I might have won"...it's actually a lot darker than one would ever expect from a pop song, but then that's exactly what makes it amazing. Astrid And The Asteroids are full of surprises and with every single surprise I've come to like them more and more. (Jo Michelmore)


'Autopsy' wins simply by using medical gore and a semi naked man, let alone the fact that it’s an intensely catchy, witty and FREAKIN AWESOME pop song. (Nayt Housman)


'Autopsy' opens and closes with the same lyrics that bookend the tragic story of a defeated man presented in one of the finest pop songs of 2013. Pop music that's emerging on the fringes and particularly from independent Australian artists is getting incredibly 'smart' and 'Autopsy' would have to be the best example. Behind the music that makes you want to jump up, jump down and dance it all around is a story inspired by a mass murderer from Texas. In the case of clock tower shooter, Charles Whitman, his autopsy revealed a tumor on the brain that could have prevented a massacre. At the time, there was no medical capability to know what was going on in Whitman's head. Disenfranchised with the lack of help he was receiving, did he consciously choose to climb the stairs of that clock tower and shoot as many people as he could? Or did he genuinely have no control over his actions? Pop music that makes me examine a story like this and think about it is pop music I want to be listening to. And even if you don't - the music is incredibly catchy, you can sing and dance along and Astrid Jorgensen's voice is the best. The song builds up, knocks you around a bit and then arrives where it began. "Five knocks on the doctor's door, don't know what I am asking for, but I don't feel fine." Smart is sexy and I want to hear more music like 'Autopsy' from this very talented band. (Matt Bond) 

#27. Tennis Court

by Lorde





Baby be the class clown,
I'll be the beauty queen in tears... 

What is it about Lorde? She has that voice, yes, that voice that sounds like 2013, she has a way with her vocal chords that make you think it's effortless to sound like she's singing with all she's got. She has that look, the natural style that seems so much less artificial than so many of her contemporaries. She has that innocence which is charming, the slight sense of unsure on stage and in the media's spotlight. Maybe it's all of these things, or maybe it's because even at such a young age, she seems so much wiser, because through her songs, she has a way of reminding us that somewhere deep inside we're all just teenagers trying to find our way "down to the tennis court so we can talk it up like yeah." (Jo Michelmore)  

 

Oh my Lorde, ‘Tennis Court’ is the ultimate ear worm. I haven’t quite mastered all of the lyrics yet, so often find myself mumbling, throwing in a burpy sounding “yeah” now and again for good measure. I have discovered that the song is not actually about tennis, but seems to tackle her impending rise to fame. There’s simplicity to the music, but her vocals are delivered with power and a bit of a sting. And look, I’m always supportive of my fellow curly haired gals. Those bad boys can be hard to tame! After seeing Lorde perform earlier this year it’s safe to say that we’ll be seeing more of this talented songstress in years to come. (Katie Langley)


"I'll fall apart, with all my heart... you can watch from your window." The idea of 'fame' and 'celebrity' is very appealing to so many people. But the idea is very different from the reality and Lorde tackles her new-found fame and what that will mean for her life in a very impressive fashion on 'Tennis Court'. More than that, there's a lot she has to say about teen apathy and the roles people are expected to play throughout their lives. Lorde and her collaborator Joel Little had so much to say on the track that it makes the still and distant video all that more likeable. At least that's how I've looked at it. Do that thing you should never do and look at the YouTube comments. So many eye rolls to be had. For me, 'Tennis Court' is about the performance sold through Lorde's voice, the light electronic touches and some of my favourite lyrics of the year. "Baby be the class clown, I'll be the beauty queen in tears, it's a new art form showing people how little we care." Brilliant. (Matt Bond)  


Lorde is truly one of the breakthrough artists of 2013. At last look, this clip had over 18 MILLION hits. Yes. Eighteen. Million. Which is no easy feat for the 16 year old singer from New Zealand. At such a young age Lorde has been thrust into the spotlight. ‘Tennis Court’ is a somber, dark and a very moody vocal/electronic mix. Although this song didn’t grab me like some of her other songs, it’s still well produced and delivers a punch with that spooky “Yeah” slowed down voice sample. (Lou Endicott)

#26. Hey Now

by London Grammar





Imagination calling mirrors for you,
Hey now, hey now. 

It’s the voice of Hannah Reid that gets me in this song - particularly when she soars up high like some ethereal bird. There is a definite weight behind her voice that sits in the heart. It’s such a powerful contrast against the chilled beats and echo of guitar in the song. I also love the keys. The first time I heard the song I thought for a second (with the opening keys) that I was listening to a cover of Madonna’s 'Borderline'. Ah no Lou. This is NEW music. And it’s done well. I’ve always enjoyed a spot of trip hop and 'Hey Now' sits firmly in this genre. (Lou Endicott) 


Well I feel relaxed. I don't think I really need to sell to you the beauty of a track like 'Hey Now', so I'll just take the opportunity and time I have hear to admit that the real reason I love this song is because of the way Hannah Reid, in that voice that is so good it's like a punch to the soul, sings, "fuck you." I don't care if you disagree with me and think she sings, "for you." What I hear is, "leave it to the wayside like you do, fuck you." That's something I've loved in 2013. Beautiful voices dropping these unexpected swears that you notice and just look around and think you're crazy and then you listen to it again and you go... heck yes that just happened! And then you embrace it and you love it. London Grammar are the bomb and if you don't like it, Hannah Reid's got two words for you. (Matt Bond)


I have a list of female vocalists who I love, that sing with smouldering deep tones in their voice. They get right to the bone and rattle me until watery deposits in my eyes overflow. Hannah Reid possesses such a voice. For some reason I’m reminded of the likes of Tom Flemming (Wild Beasts) and Leslie Feist if they morphed together with James Blake or Jeff Buckley, all occupying that blissful down tempo space in the music world and commanding their audiences with some of the most powerful voices in contemporary music.


When I often talk about music that might be “chilled out” and “beautiful” or “cruisy”, often I can hear the songs a few times, enjoy them and forget them a week later but there’s something that London Grammar embody in their very low key, minimalist world that is so achingly arresting. In ‘Hey Now’ there are no tricks employed in their delivery, no big beats needed, no flash and dazzle (I still love all of the aforementioned) only simple melodies, sparse keys and guitar and a possibly the most emotionally commanding female voice of 2013.


It may be weird but there’s no music I love more than something guaranteed to turn me into a blubbering, choked up mess. Crying to music is the most blissful therapy and the five or so times I’ve listened to ‘Hey Now’ while writing this review, I’ve choked up each time. I love it. I ache for it. It’s humanising, grounding and simply spectacular. (Nayt Housman)


There’s a new, dream like quality to ‘Hey Now’ which makes me visualise things like sunrise, big fluffy clouds, and rain drops. If you think that sounds ridiculous then I urge you to listen to the song and not think of those things. See, told you so. It’s got that whole ethereal, brooding thing going for it - the perfect song for a cup of tea and gentle reflection. (Katie Langley)

#25. Bridge of Bones

by Crystal Fighters





So I write you with love,
From the wide ocean. 

If you'd never heard any of the Crystal Fighters and were to google their name, you'd come across all sorts of reviews and a Wikipedia entry that describes them as 'alternative dance'. I guess you could call them that, but what that description doesn't include is this song. 'Bridge Of Bones', from their second album Cave Rave isn't what I would call 'alternative' and it's certainly not what I would call 'dance', but what it is a track that shows a band with some awesome song writing talent, not every band in the world can get away with the epic, the song that takes you on an epic roadtrip of harmonies and keys, which then brings you back home safely five minutes later. It's a roadtrip of utter happiness and one I'm only too happy to take. (Jo Michelmore)


When I listen to 'Bridge of Bones', I feel like I'm standing on the beach at sunset, staring into the waves rolling in and trying to forget about that's troubling my mind. By the time this nearly six minute journey has ended, I know nothing could be troubling my mind. I'm happy, completely at ease and so very amazed by the effect the music of the Crystal Fighters can have on me. They're known for their more boppy, upbeat folktronica tracks like 'At Home', 'I Love London' or even 'Wave' and 'Separator' from the new album Cave Rave. But 'Bridge of Bones' slowed it all down momentarily and let Crystal Fighters allow a track to naturally build up AND THEN explode. With some gospel choir touches of course. Because everything is better with a gospel choir. Crystal Fighters continue to grow and are well on their way to being regarded as one of the best band's in the world. Maybe they could even be 'the' best. (Matt Bond)

#24. The Alphabet Song

by Texas Tea





F, F you see it's not about the ability, to swear at you just because I'm mad,
G, gee I really thought that we could work this out,
But now that you are gone, I'm kinda glad. 

Texas Tea are no strangers to these lists of ours, having taken out the #1 spot last year with 'Heart Says Yes (Head Says No)'. They continued to be awesome in 2013 as 'The Alphabet Song' from Sad Summer Hits was released with a quirky and cute video to match the, uh, educational (?) nature of the song. Sesame Street uses the alphabet and puppets to educate tiny, tiny children and stoners. Texas Tea uses the alphabet and puppets for educational purposes too, but in this instance, Texas Kate teaches herself and the listener that there's nothing that will change the 'D' in her life and maybe it's not so bad that 'D' walked out the door after all. 'The Alphabet Song' made sure we stayed Texas Tea's biggest Tea Bags (can someone make the fan page, please?) in 2013. Now, I don't want a lot for Christmas, there is just one thing I need... and that's for Texas Kate and Texas Ben to give us an indication we could be hearing a new album sometime in 2014. (Matt Bond)

This is a much more exciting way to learn the alphabet! When Kate sings “D is for the dick I thought you were” in that oh-so-sweet voice, I’m having visions of Lily Allen and only hoping that “F” is what I think it will be. She toys with the idea, and then changes her mind. That’s what I love about this song – it’s a break up song with a difference. Throughout the sarcastic journey of the song there’s a realisation that spitting venom won’t change anything. ‘The Alphabet Song’ is cute, quirky, and full of dry wit. It could only be improved with Glen Russell’s moustache. (Katie Langley)


It is absolutely no secret how much I love Texas Tea. It is absolutely no secret how much Matt loves Texas Tea. It is absolutely no secret how much Katie loves the moustache of Glen Russell of Texas Tea. It is absolutely no secret how much we here at It's My Kind Of Scene love Texas Tea, after all, they did 'win' our Best Group Scene Award last year (sorry we haven't got that trophy to you yet guys, might still be in the mail). Why do we like them so much? Well, I can't speak for everyone, but this here song probably sums up a huge amount of why I personally love them so much. There's the cute little swinging ukulele which sucks you in, but that's not the bit I like the most. You see, the thing is, I sit down every week and write lots and lots of words about all sorts of things, I'm a fan of words and I especially love playing with words, spinning them around inside and out and seeing what I can come up with. 'The Alphabet Song' has such a clever way with words, there's no way I couldn't love it. It's the B and the C, the D and the E, and G I really love the way Kate Jacobsen plays with the J, K, L, M and makes all the innocent little letters just a teeny bit vicious every time I press play. Here's some letters they didn't put together in that song - I. L.O.V.E. (Jo Michelmore)


There’s something so endearing about a ukulele and a miniature xylophone especially when hand puppets are involved and the song is basically an adult interpretation of a children’s song. When I listen to ‘The Alphabet Song’ I immediately think of all my favourite childhood tunes from the likes of Peter Combe and Rolf Harris, then like to imagine how I’d reinterpret them to suit who I am now. Strangely enough they probably wouldn’t change that much…


As our top 113 suggests sometimes the most simplistic songs can be some of the best, and the knack of Kate and Ben to craft such delights is brought to the fore with ‘The Alphabet Song’. A few strums of the ukulele and a ding or two on a xylophone sweetly underpins the not so sweet, actually, rather bitter, cutting lyrics of what would be a breakup song. “H I guess there’s no debate, that this one really should be hate, but that really is such a strong word, but I am strong and so are you, so hate it is and hate will do, for that J K L M-T heart you wear around.” Hahahaha such cute and spiteful words, but so relatable. The thing I love most is that in the video Kate is smiling with glee while every vicious word spills from her mouth. It’s delightful and heart-warming really. (Nayt Housman)

#23. I Need Answers

by Asta





The moon is full, I can feel your pull,
  I'm coming to you and I'll be there soon.

“I see you there, you’re the brightest star…” ‘I Need Answers’ is my OTHER favourite track of the year. Earlier in the countdown I mentioned that ‘Boardwalks’ by Little May took the big spot in my heart for my years favourite. But this song…. Oh this song… Asta just played right into my heart with her glorious voice, mix of electronic and traditional instrumentation and the must-hear-again-and-again melody. I was happier than a pig in mud seeing this track played live in Melbourne a couple of months back. And the film clip is one that I adore too. It’s surreal theatrics and celestial imagery is one that tickles my fancy. I can’t wait to hear an album from Asta hopefully in the near future. (Lou Endicott)


First things first, the video. I like umbrellas. I have about eight and only two of them are of the useful kind. SHE’S DANCING WITH AN UMBRELLA! I LOVE THIS! It’s actually really cheesy the video what with the moon and spacey sky and contemporary dancing in a vast body of water. But if you know me well enough, you’ll know that I love cheese. However I do have to close my eyes and simply listen to the music. Yes let’s ignore the cheese and talk about the music.


I like to compare new artist to artists I already love so I can find a place to fit them within my music sphere. For Asta I feel hints of PJ Harvey and large amounts of Imogen Heap with a helping of Florence Welch. Now these are all quite distinctly different influences I’m connecting here but somehow it all fits together so well. I really love how the acoustic guitar keeps things grounded and give the dancey beat a canvas to paint while the vocals fill in the details. It has a late 90s/early 00s kinda vibe which, was for me, my fave period for music. It feels nostalgic yet fresh, so in terms of cheese, maybe a mild cheddar. Safe but dependable. (Nayt Housman)


I actually find the clip to be a bit more 'glam' as opposed to cheese filled than 'ole cheddar pants above, but to each their own. What Nayt and I can agree on is that the music is amazing and Asta delivered in a huge way with 'I Need Answers'. This talented, young performer could very well be the future of Australian pop music and I for one wouldn't be complaining. She knows her way around a memorable hook, can write some mighty fine words that paint romantic imagery that spans the universe and has a voice so smooth, you just might melt. Oh what a world. A world that's so much better with Asta around. (Matt Bond)


Matt had the opportunity to ask Asta some little questions at the start of the year, so he asked her all about 'I Need Answers' and what kind of things we can expect from an album...


Asta: The track is about needing answers from men and pretty much life is general and funnily enough I got the answers in the end. Wanting things black and white. I like to experiment with all sorts of sounds, but you will always here a shimmery guitar and some pop beats in the background. I like to think that my voice will stitch most songs together in the album but I'm not jumping into one particular sound at the moment. Still very fresh in this industry so lots to play with.

#22. Bring The Noize

by M.I.A





Come let me go, do you like my perfume?
Made it at home with some gasoline and shrooms. 

I’m going to sound like a real wanker for a moment while I remind you all that I liked M.I.A. before she was cool. When I first bought her CD and played it for my sister she screwed her face up and asked “what the hell is this jungle shit?”. Over the years her sound has transitioned, which is what I love most about her – just when you think you’ve figured out what M.I.A. is all about she mixes it up on us. ‘Bring The Noize’ is a Hindi, dance, rap mega mash. I’m not quite sure how one is supposed to dance to it, but I’ll give it a red hot go. (Katie Langley)


I have to quietly challenge Katie's belief that she liked M.I.A before she was cool. It's widely rumoured that young Maya Arulpragasam was born cool and worshiped as some sort of deity of 'coolness'. And even if she wasn't, I liked her first and I'm probably related to her so there. M.I.A's sound has been a lot of things, but in 2013 with the album Matangi (combined with the party starting 2012 track 'Bad Girls'), M.I.A sounded... dangerous. 'Bring The Noize' moreso than 'Bad Girls' highlighted this new 'tude because she was laying out rhymes thick and fast. Sure, there were plenty of ridiculous lines... and I do mean plenty... but the beats said one thing and one thing only. M.I.A won't be backing down anymore. She's been on the receiving end of some verbal beatings from critics, peers, music listeners, whoever runs the Superbowl, crazy PTC bitches, politicians... every man and his freaking dog. But she's going to keep doing what she does and she'll do it well. M.I.A will bring the noise and she will deliver. (Matt Bond)


Look up the word chaotic in a dictionary. Ok, you probably don't own a dictionary, so googling it will do. When you do, what do you find? It says something about a state of confusion and disorder. Look up disorder. It says something about a state of confusion. Look up confusion. It says something about uncertainty and state of being bewildered and mystified. Look up mystified. It says something about being confused. Look up confuse. It says to be unable to think with clarity. These would normally be bad things, right? Except when an artist like M.I.A makes a song that manages to combine incredible rap with bhangra sounds, killer synths with vicious lyrics and angry with a must dance beat, all of the previous words are involved, but only in the best way possible. (Jo Michelmore)

#21. Mirrors

by Justin Timberlake





'Cause I don't want to lose you now,
I'm lookin' right at the other half of me... 

When the song is called 'Mirrors', it begs the question; what does Justin Timberlake see when he looks in the mirror? Does he see a mega famous pop star? Does he see the babe that a lot of people think he is? Does he see the boy from The Mickey Mouse Club or the boy from N'Sync, who wasn't to know what was to come? Does he see a Billboard, Emmy and Brit Award winner? Does he see an amazing entertainer who plays arenas and stadiums to hundreds of thousands of fans? Does he see the singer who managed to come back from a seven year hiatus with an album that was not only interesting, but awesome? Does he actually see how talented he is? Or, amongst all of that, does he see a guy who can write and perform an incredibly catchy, cute and brilliant little pop song about the 'love of his life'? Whatever he sees, it's probably none of these things, but I hope he keeps seeing it, because if that guy staring back at him keeps making music like this, fans of pop like me will be happy for a long, long time. (Jo Michelmore)


I’m only fairly new to the JT appreciation society. Shocking I know. How I didn’t fall in love with those curls in the N*Sync days is beyond me. I guess I thought he was a bit safe, a bit too predictable. But I’m happy to admit that he proved me wrong with ‘Suit and Tie’. It’s like my eyes were opened and I began to appreciate the real talent he possess. In my opinion I don’t think ‘Mirrors’ is as amazing as ‘Suit and Tie’, but it’s still bloody cool. It’s an epic love ballad that will no doubt feature in many weddings for years to come. (Katie Langley)


A most welcome return from one of the last, great male pop superstars happened in 2013. Yep, JT was classing it up all over the place with his new iteration as the 'gentleman' of pop and showing the kids how it's done. When I see him in a movie I'd rather throw myself in front of a bus, but when he's singing and dancing it's a completely different story. 'Mirrors' is some classy pop and the video is fantastic too. Stick around the music for a bit longer before you run back and do No Strings Attached 2: Now With Even More Strings Not Attached. Or was he in Just Friends? Urgh, who cares... it was the same movie, right? (Matt Bond)

See you tomorrow as we introduce the first half of our Top 20 songs of 2013!