Top 119 Songs of 2019 - #20 - 11

#119 - #111

#110 - #101

#100 - #91

#90 - #81

#80 - #71

#70 - #61

#60 - #51

#50 - #41

#40 - #31

#30 - #21

#20. DELETE YOU

by Handsome

Set me up to lose like I can't refuse (and I can't let go)

Got me chasing you like I never do (oh I want you to know)

My incredible Google research powers tell me that Handsome is the musical alias of Caitlin Park (yes, the amazing Caitlin Park!), who is based in Sydney and crafts what she calls tomboy pop. My incredible listening to music powers tell me that Handsome is the fucking bomb and ‘Delete You’ is one of the best songs of the year. It didn’t even take me the thousand or so times I’ve listened to it to figure these things out. Just that first, glorious listen that made me want to hear those call and response lines and that booming chorus again and again and, like Handsome herself, dance it out until the heart’s forgiven. Tomboy pop, electro pop, pop pop pop... whatever you want to call it, this is just too good. More please. (Matt Bond) 


You know how sometimes you're watching a clip to a song and it gets you thinking about something and so you search for something else which gets you thinking about something else and then next thing you know it's three hours later and you're watching clips of garbage trucks on youtube? I love how pop is a reflection of life and in a hundred years will anyone know what Handsome meant about our lives when she sang something about deleting someone in her own time, because will social media even exist then or will we all be virtual-ing everything and will music even be music anymore because surely spotify will have disappeared and will any of us even exist then because climate change and the internet and this is a dark hole I didn’t expect to be in….best get back out and listen to some pop music to take my mind off things. This one by Handsome will do it.... (Jo Michelmore)

#19. QUEEN OF HEARTS

by Sahara Beck

If the sky can take the rain

Baby I can play the lonely game of loving you

Sahara Beck has arrived, peasants. Tremble in the presence of musical greatness. She is the true Queen of the North (hailing from the Sunshine Coast), breaker of musical boredom, first of her name. On ‘Queen of Hearts’, Beck stakes a claim to the pop music crown, with snappy lines and a hook that refuses to budge from your head. It’s a huge moment for an artist who has been working so hard over the years to put out consistently top quality tracks. Have Beck or the song received the attention they deserve? Nope. Not even a little. But when the music’s this good, it can’t be ignored for much longer. Here’s to a huge 2020 for Sahara Beck. (Matt Bond)

#18. A HUNDRED MILLION YEARS 
by Texas Tea

I'm not lonely, who told you that I was?

It seemed like a hundred million years between new releases from our favourite Brisbane-formed Alt Country duo. But the music gods were kind to us in 2019 and brought Texas Tea back to us with the brilliant album, Röda Tråden, which was home to its first track, ‘A Hundred Million Years’. Do you get the opening line now about how long the wait seemed? Do you get it? Do you? Good. Texas Kate’s soaring vocals return on a track that will warm the heart just as much as it will break it in the way only a Texas Tea track can. Plus there’s horns so bonus points for the arrangement. Texas Tea keep on getting better and better. We’d happily wait another hundred million years to hear more from them. (Matt Bond) 

#17. RETROGRADE

by Maggie Rogers

But heartache feels the same

And I know we've both been here before

Appropriate that I should love a song that references a Stevie Nicks lyric, because anyone who appreciates Ms Nicks must have a little something I’m going to relate to. But is moving in retrograde about moving backward or is one in retrograde merely appearing to move backward, because I’m going to suggest while she sings about it very well, Maggie Rogers has no where to go but forward with beats like these. I can’t even decide if she’s angsty or ecstatic about her state of retrograde, but I guess that’s what makes it so addictive, every listen a different take but every listen a little more love. (Jo Michelmore)

#16. COOL AS HELL

by Baker Boy

I been feeling like a lone wolf

Dancing in the street light howling at the moon

I could make this easy and say just head back to number 74 and read that again to see how I feel about Baker Boy, but I’ll just take this opportunity to also say that this song is one of the many reasons I love music so, so much. Because what Baker Boy does in this song is exactly what music does so often, takes me somewhere else (mostly emotionally, but sometimes physically as well) and for just a couple of minutes makes me feel pretty much something I never think I am. Every time I hear a song like his, just for a second I feel so cool as hell, something that I’m pretty sure Baker Boy is all of the time. (Jo Michelmore)

#15. TALK DEEP

by E^ST

Lying in your bed we're losing track of time

You say what's in your head, I say what's on my mind

Melisa Bester has a way of taking the most important, relatable things and moments in your life and turning them into songs that anyone who has lived can love. Last year, it was... the blow job... um, but this year THIS YEAR it’s something a little deeper and oh boy, no puns. This year it’s that very basic yet essential need we have to connect with at least one person that gets us, that we can say anything to without fear of judgement... our very own Meredith Grey/Cristina Yang ‘person’. ‘Talk Deep’ puts this desire to connect into a charming three and a half minute package that will take you back to all of those moments in your life that had you staying up all night to talk about everything and nothing. Just like those moments, ‘Talk Deep’ will leave you feeling like everything is okay in the world. Even if it is just for three and a half minutes. (Matt Bond) 


Does anyone write songs that describe things so exactly perfectly as E^ST does? I can't think of a song that describes Saturday 3am as a nineteen-year-old better. Ok, twenty-three-year-old. Ok ok, thirty-one-year-old. Look, I’m not going any further than that. The point is everyone’s been there, and E^ST has managed to write a song about how damn fun it is to like someone so much that you don’t care about whatever it is you have to do the next day at 9AM, 8AM, 7AM, whenever AM…I don’t know what you do with your life. The bounce in this is the bounce in your stomach with every word in the middle of the night and the percussion means who needs sleep anyway? When the music is this good, no one. (Jo Michelmore)

#14. WEAK

by Jack Colwell

You say I'm weak, you say I'm small

I'll never be anything but a punchline

So I have to admit a huge mistake... Jack Colwell appeared earlier in the countdown at number 50. It said ‘Weak’ when we were reviewing his other 2019 song ‘In My Dreams’. We (I) make the occasional stuff up with these countdowns, to err is human and all that. But a huge sorry to Jack Colwell who was #50 with ‘In My Dreams’ and is here at #14 with ‘Weak’. Please go and find the video for ‘In My Dreams’, listen to it a hundred times, fall in love and then come back here to listen to ‘Weak’, fall in love with Jack Colwell’s music more and then we’ll laugh and laugh at my mistakes. My embarrassment over this whole situation makes me want to crawl into a hole and never come out, so I’ll leave the praise for ‘Weak’ to Jo, but I’ll just say the lyrics are a real punch in the face and we love you Jack Colwell! (Matt Bond) 


The most interesting thing about writing and performing a song like 'Weak' is exactly the opposite of weak, which is to say that someone who can turn themselves inside out and then put that into a song for all the world to hear is a much stronger person than most, let alone talented, whether they realise it or not. The strength in Jack’s vulnerability is astounding, relatable and so, so beautiful…all the things that make me love Jack Colwell more with every release. (Jo Michelmore)

#13. I AM NOT AFRAID

by G Flip

I am not afraid to do this alone

I know that it scares you but I am my own home

G Flip had a huge year. Debuts on the hottest 100 in January, sell out shows, one of, if not the best debut album of 2019. Not too shabby, right? The musical creations of Georgia Flipo made the perfect soundtrack to get us through the year, with ‘I Am Not Afraid’ in particular finding a special place in the hearts of fans. It feels like a huge moment, a realisation that everything is going to be okay. It’s the moment of clarity after the storm has passed. It’s knowing that you come equipped with everything you need to get through this because you’re you. And hey, dear reader, you’re great. We know it, G Flip knows it and you should know it too. From the opening admission of being fine with feeling lonely, G Flip takes you on one hell of a self love ride. That it comes with a booming chorus and Flipo voice sounding better than ever before is a pretty sweet bonus. (Matt Bond) 


I can’t imagine 2019 without G Flip in it. I have listened to her album probably more than any other, she has been a constant on my recently played lists, I saw her play live twice and I must have mentioned her enough as I was gifted some G Flip merch for Christmas, so she’s also become part of my wardrobe as well. All of that and she was responsible for the ultimate thing my favourite music does, she inspired me by writing some of my favourite words of the year in this song, something that has become a bit of a mantra for me since I heard them, the ones up above, and partly because I relate to the words so well, but also because so often, when I don't feel them, I so need to. (Jo Michelmore)

#12. TRUTH HURTS 
by Lizzo

I just took a DNA test, turns out

I'm 100% that bitch

I would like to thank Lizzo for allowing myself and many others to finally recognise that we are indeed 100% that bitch. Sure, we may or may not be living the messiest of lives but we, like our new Lordess of light, handle things with class, dignity and a new man on the Minnesota Vikings. What? Lizzo captured the world’s attention with ‘Truth Hurts’ and it doesn’t look like she’s going to let us go for a long time yet. And why would we want her to? Don’t be bom bom bi dom bi dum dum, bay. Don’t be like that. (Matt Bond) 


2019, the year of Lizzo. What can I say about her that hasn’t already been said? Not much, so I’ll just say I’m a little bit sick of hearing about controversies, who said what, who wore what, who wrote what, who called who what, who actually cares, is anyone listening to what’s going on here? This isn’t 2019 the year of Lizzo. This is 2019, the year of really good music. (Jo Michelmore)

#11. I LIKE TO DANCE

by Alex The Astronaut

I'm like everyone else

I'm mostly like everyone else

It’s hard to find the right words to do a song like this and the message it represents justice. Domestic violence is a very real issue that needs to be talked about openly and honestly if there’s any hope of removing the stigma that many people face before they can think of seeking help. Alex The Astronaut puts forward what I think is a mostly fictional account of an abusive relationship that goes a long way in getting those that listen to consider all the aspects of what it means to be in a situation that to many of us seems unthinkable. I use the word heartbreaking a lot when describing the music I like because I like a sad song, but this isn’t just a sad song. It’s a conversation starter, haunting and, yes, tremendously heartbreaking. It’s also delicate and handled with respect so as not to sensationalise. A powerful and raw piece from one of the most thoughtful members in the next generation of classic Australian songwriters. (Matt Bond)

I wish I could admit I’d been an Alex the Astronaut fan since forever and this song was an obvious step on the path of an incredibly talented musician etc. etc., but if we’re up to number 11 and you’ve read any of my words you’ll know I know nothing other than what I like. So, while driving somewhere late one night this year I was searching radio stations for something decent to listen to and stumbled across a live performance by someone who had me reaching for the volume button very quickly. That artist was Alex the Astronaut and that performance changed my musical year. This song is the essence of everything I heard as I drove around that night; an incredible storyteller, a very talented musician and a sweet humble soul. Alex the Astronaut is all of those things, and I might be late to the Alex party, but I’m here now, and with songs like this, I’m not leaving any time soon. (Jo Michelmore)



Top 119 Songs of 2019, #70 - 61

#119 - #111

#110 - #101

#100 - #91

#90 - #81

#80 - #71

#70. SUGAR

by Peking Duk and Jack River

Want to be with you

Want to be right there by your side

On ‘Sugar’, Peking Duk and Jack River prove they’ve got the recipe down pat for the most perfectly delicious musical treat. I know we’re not supposed to compare things (for reasons?), but I love seeing listeners say they’re getting ‘Steal My Sunshine’ vibes from this one. Like Len’s seminal and possibly only track, ‘Sugar’ comes so close to falling off the sickly sweet cliff, but unlike that smash hit I don’t think I’m going to have any reservations 20 years from now about openly discussing my love for this one. River slides easily into Duk’s anthemic electronic sound, owning the dance stage in the process. Maybe it’s a little unexpected, but it’s a pleasant surprise. Who wouldn’t want to hear more from these two acts? (Matt Bond)

#69. TOMORROW IS A NEW DAY

by Texas Tea

This way you have no regrets

And each day it comes and each forgets

Brisbane’s own Texas Tea makes the surprise comeback of the year with the release of the album Röda Tråden. It had been seven long years of a wait for the obscure tea bag fan group, but that wait was well worth it. Texas Ben took the lead on ‘Tomorrow Is A New Day’, a track that rolls over and over. Kind of like a new day beginning. Kind of like a new bit of quiet heartbreak with each promise that maybe tomorrow’s that new beginning you’ve found yourself hoping for. I’m listening to this and can’t stop thinking about how each time I order Uber Eats I’m thinking I’ll be better tomorrow, knowing full well I won’t be. Things aren’t going so bad when that’s the extent of my pain... I’m sure Texas Ben had something much deeper on his mind when putting these words down. Or maybe this is truly the regretful Uber Eats soundtrack tune we’ve all been longing for. Maybe it’s best we never know/I never put these thoughts in hearts and minds around the world ever again. (Matt Bond)

And here we are at what was probably my most unexpected but so awesome surprises of the last twelve months. I didn’t know how much I’d really missed Texas Tea until they returned early in the year. As soon as I heard Ben Dougherty’s voice I was spellbound, taken back a few years to a couple of albums that defined some time for me earlier this decade. I googled them while thinking about what I was going to write about them and found a quote about their music defining a season, “it will be one I play years from now and remember this summer, it’s an album that will transcend time but bring me back to the first warm afternoon I heard it” which is pretty much how I feel about Röda Tråden now, which is kind of funny, considering I wrote those other words in the first place. And now that Texas Tea have returned, and I’ve begun quoting myself, this blogging and countdown thing really has come full circle, hasn’t it? 'Tomorrow Is A New Day', indeed. (Jo Michelmore)

#68. BACKSEAT

by Ali Barter

 


No, we've never really met

But if we did, then I think that'd we be perfect

I mean, I love this song and everything Ali Barter does, but can we talk about her facial expressions at the start of the video for ‘Backseat’ because that’s damn good comedy right there. Get this gal a TV Week Logie award. What? It’s not like we have real awards in this country... ‘Backseat’ is a lot of fun. It feels like it’s packing a whole lot of sarcasm, a scandalous touch and a catchy energy that will have you dancing around your room before the song rockets to its end. Is it ironic that it’s taken from an album titled “Hello, I’m Doing My Best,” when it’s so painfully clear Barter’s delivering her best work? I’m genuinely asking... Alanis Morissette really screwed with my understanding of what irony is. Killing it as always, Ali Barter. Total jam. Can you play on my EP? (Matt Bond)

#67. NOT ANGRY ANYMORE

by Thelma Plum

You can try to make amends

Tell the world that we're still friends

But was it worth it?

I was lucky enough to see Thelma Plum live earlier this year and during the show, in between songs, she told lots of little tales of herself and her life and as she so sweetly does, giving lots of little glimpses into who she is and who she wants to be. It was so nice to hear her talk of past tales and future dreams and what it’s like to text Paul Kelly accidentally and tell him you’re so nervous you’re going to be sick. But the secret about Thelma Plum that you get to know once you see her live telling those tales, is that you don’t really need to hear the tales to tell who she is, because if you want to know, she puts it all out there, right in the songs. Humble and sweet sit perfectly alongside broken and empty, which also live with exasperated and the opposite to that in this song, not angry anymore, each as important as each other.  There’s never anything to hide with Thelma Plum, and that’s one of the things that makes me such a big fan. (Jo Michelmore)

#66. MODERATION

by Florence + The Machine

Can't hold it back, I can't take the tension

I'm trying to be good

It was a bold choice for Florence + The Machine to add ‘Moderation’ to their setlist before it was released in the ENCORE slot. As the non-album cut started playing during Florence’s performance at the Brisbane Riverstage at the start of the year I couldn’t have been alone in looking around and thinking, “what’s this all about?” It didn’t take long for the entire crowd to get right into this even though they hadn’t heard it before. This is rock and or roll, it sends Florence’s voice soaring and takes you along for the ride. There’s nothing moderate about it, but like our leading lady says, who do you think you’re talking to? We want what we want from a Florence + The Machine song. We want it to be dramatic, shameless and over the top. And that’s everything ‘Moderation’ is. Please don’t ever change, Lady Flo. (Matt Bond)

#65. EYES TO THE SKY

by OKENYO

Save the best oh yeah

For last but not the least oh yeah

I read something about OKENYO and someone referencing her “signature swag” and I was like, what even is a signature swag and how do I go about getting myself one? Are you born with it, or can I learn it? OKENYO has swag in doubles and triples, making her brand of hip hop sound like she woke up like this, completely effortless cool. And here I am sitting in my pjs with a cup of tea writing words about her. That's my signature swag. (Jo Michelmore) 

#64. EVERYTHING I DO IS REPLACED BY TWO

by Jeremy Neale

We were building a dream

Now it's over

Swinging guitar pop and a way with words, Jeremy Neale has never disappointed with his brand of straightforwardness, his keen observation of the absurd and his way of turning those things into riffs and harmonies and hooks that are born to be heard and made to sway to. He wears his pants high and his heart on his sleeve and ultimately, they are both very important things we can all learn from. (Jo Michelmore)

#63. ANOTHER DAY

by #1 Dads

Lay down just don't lay down

Let this be a little song for you

I’ve got a whole bunch of things I think about one of Tom Iansek’s other things, No Mono, after stumbling into a gig of theirs earlier this year, which I’ll discuss later in this little countdown of ours (spoiler alert), but for now, this thing; #1 Dads. The clip as sparse as the song, ‘Another Day’ is a really nice example of how little is needed to make an impact sometimes. Nothing unusual, just a sweet little swinging tune with a winning whistle in the middle, there’s nothing confronting but all comforting and it's so very pleasant. (Jo Michelmore)

#62. PARTY FOR ONE

by Carly Rae Jepsen

You don't want my love, if you don't care about me

I'll just dance by myself, back on my beat

I was a little late to the Carly Rae reinvention party. See, I was thinking she was running around finding new ways to record ‘Call Me Maybe’ (a certified banger) and she sort of disappeared form the mainstream eye and also disappeared from everywhere I’ve been consuming the musics. But I should have been actively seeking this reborn C Jepsen, the Robyn of a new generation. Like the super gay friendly electro Queen that came before her, CRJ put her one hit wonder ways behind her, threw her amazing personality into her tunes and became a dancehall goddess. It’s a whole thing, you haven’t done it? Everyone’s doing it. You should do it. I’ve done it. It was a thing. Anyway long story short or whatever that TL;DR thing is... I should have been on board the Carly J express this whole time, because it’s banger after banger like ‘Party For One’. Give it a listen and say to yourself, “here’s another banger.” You won’t regret it. (Matt Bond)


I don’t know what to make of Carley Rae Jepsen, because if you look at music in a traditional way, she’s pretty much a no one hit wonder. But music (thankfully?) isn’t traditional in any way, so if you look at views and likes and online such things, she’s a bit of a big deal. If you ignore that song that you know, even though it was perfect pop in itself, she’s a perfect definition of pop music; bouncy beats, quirky relatable lyrics and colourful clips. ‘Party For One’ is all of those things. Perfect pop. (Jo Michelmore)

#61. ROBBERY

by Lime Cordiale

 


Wait that's her, stop that girl

How flippin’ good is it to see all the success that Lime Cordiale have found over the past couple of years? It’s pretty damn flippin’ good. Oli and Louis Leimbach have been churning out top notch, quality tunes and this trusty and true method of being musically awesome is winning them more and more fans with each release. We’re expecting to hear them more than once when it comes time for the Hottest 100 and you just know ‘Robbery’ is going to be on that list. Everyone’s going to be shouting along to, “hey that’s her, stop that girl!” And you’re going to love it. (Matt Bond)

The Last 5 Years, #10 - 1

Texas Tea, Thelma Plum, Tkay Maidza + Kimbra!

Well, we're now five years and one month old as we arrive at the end of our special 5th birthday countdown, celebrating our favourite songs from when we started It's My Kind of Scene to now. Hopefully it's been as fun of a walk down recent memory lane for you as it's been for us! We'll be returning to our regularly scheduled programming after this, so expect to have some album, song and video reviews coming your way, as well as the always amazing K-Tizzle Sizzle, Jo's A-Z of the 80s and our weekly Top 25. Thanks for sticking around and, as always, enjoy!

100 - 91

90 - 81

80 - 71

70 - 61

60 - 51

50 - 41

40 - 31

30 - 21

20 - 11

#10. BAD GIRLS

by M.I.A





Live fast, die young
Bad girls do it well. 

Is there a more impressive moment in any music video than the shot of M.I.A casually filing her nails as she sits in the window of that speeding car on two wheels? The whole video is full of impressive shots, but that one takes the cake. But it's better than just your standard cake, you know? It takes the ice-cream cake. Enough about the video though, we're here for the song and what makes it one of our  favourites of the past five years. We got a tease of what to expect from 'Bad Girls' when M.I.A dropped her explosive Vicki Leekx mixtape in 2010, with the full brilliance of the track following in early 2012. It's undeniably cool, oh so very sexy and packs a hook as catchy as any of your fave radio jams. I'm not really sure what 'swagga' means, but I'm pretty sure 'Bad Girls' has it. M.I.A definitely has it, whatever it is. After a rough couple of years in the media and getting scolded for using the middle finger during Madonna's Super Bowl performance of 'Give Me All Your Love' (a gesture hardly as offensive as the song itself), 'Bad Girls' was what we'd call M.I.A's return to form if she had ever lost her incredible form as an artist in the first place. Still her best track released thus far and it's miles ahead of the lol drugs-ish-ness of 'Paper Planes'. (Matt Bond)

#9. LOVE INTERRUPTION
by Jack White





I want love to walk right up and bite me
Grab a hold of me and fight me
Leave me dying on the ground. 

Jack. White. I love him so much his name requires those dramatic pauses. For me, one of those artists that has found themselves a special little place in my musical heart and soundtrack to life; his ever greasy hair, his ever snarly glare, his love of things from the past and the wicked way he has with those guitars of his will probably always keep me captivated. While I find it difficult to know which material to love most, this track, from his 2013 debut solo release Blunderbuss, will probably always be my favourite. Whether it be because it was the first taste of Mr White as a solo artist, whether it is those subtle keys holding everything together, whether it be those heart wrenchingly fabulous vocals of Ruby Amanfo or Jack crooning with the best of them about wanting love to “walk right up and bite me”; whatever it is, there’s a something in this song that I can’t deny. Like all the songs I love best, it only takes a couple of notes and my heart skips a beat and it only takes the mention of his name for me to utter those words that have become synonymous with this blog and Jack White…oh Jack, oh sigh. (Jo Michelmore)

#8. HOME
by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros





Laugh until we think we'll die, barefoot on a summer night
Never could be sweeter than with you. 

"Alabama, Arkansas, I do love my ma and pa, not the way that I do love you." How can you not love the folky goodness that is 'Home'? Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros' Alex Ebert and Jade Castrinos (now a former member of the group) trade lines back and forth that probably would have been super cheesy if anyone else was delivering them. But Ebert and Castrinos have a genuine sweetness in their delivery that makes you think, maybe these crazy kids could really give that crazy little thing called love a real shot. They pull off whistling, an extended lovey-dovey-talky segment and a whole lot of vocal twang in such a stylish fashion that you don't even think twice about how so many bizarre elements can come together to create one of your most loved songs. It's simply music designed to make you happy and bring some joy into your life. And there's nothing wrong with that. (Matt Bond)

#7. THE BED SONG

by Amanda Palmer and The Grand Theft Orchestra





And I lay there wondering, what is the matter?
Is this a matter of worse or of better? 

There is one thing for sure that I can tell you and that is that Matt and my mutual love of Amanda Palmer has been well documented over the past five years, both of us have not been afraid to wear our love of AFP on our sleeves, both here on this blog and in real life. There’s a reason we wear that love on both those sleeves and for me, ‘The Bed Song’ is probably the best example of why. Because there are artists that write great songs, there are artists that make me smile, there are artists that make me dance, there are artists that make me cry, there are artists that make me laugh, there are artists that make me think, there are artists that challenge me and there are artists that move me. When I wrote about ‘The Bed Song’ in our Top 112 songs of 2012, I said I could count the amount of times I had listened to it, because it was a song that affected me so much, I couldn’t listen to it too many times. I can say the same thing now, because it’s a song that is more than notes and words, it’s more than Amanda Palmer and The Grand Theft Orchestra, it’s more than just a part of the soundtrack to my life. It is the same now as it was then; a song that changed my life and like I said in 2012, three years later, the sentiment is exactly the same…” What I can’t tell you is how much I love this song, or what it means to me, because sometimes, words are just not enough. What I can tell you is that on days when all is too much, when there is nothing else; songs like this are the reason that music means the world to me.” (Jo Michelmore)

#6. SOMEBODY THAT I USED TO KNOW

by Gotye and Kimbra





But I don't wanna live that way
Reading into every word you say. 

Ok, so I really love this song. I have to say that first before you think I don't, because now I'm going to tell you that I really don't want to write anything about 'Somebody That I Used To Know'. I'm still feeling a bit 'Somebody That I Used To Know'-ed out and it's been four years since it was released. It was EVERYWHERE for two years. Every single radio station. Every shopping centre. Every music channel. Topping charts around the world. Coming in as our #1 song of 2011. Topping the Hottest 100. Winning Grammys. And there was a very good reason for all of its success, which is 'Somebody That I Used To Know' is one of the best songs ever written and performed. I, like most of the world, was obsessed with it, listening to it over and over again. I still really love this song. But that doesn't mean that if it comes on the radio today I don't have to change the station. We just need some time apart so that when I come back to it a couple of years down the line I can greet it with open arms as that song that I used to know and love. We couldn't leave it off this list though. (Matt Bond)

#5. 1000 SUNDOWNS

by Emma Louise





And on these summer nights when the weather's right
I miss him by my side
Oh, by my side. 

We all have days to live, we all have moments of our own and moments of each others and we all have our own tales to tell. We all have our own heartbreaks, our own futures and our own pasts. What we don’t all have is the ability to turn those tales into song, turn those moments into words and turn those days into notes. We don’t all have the ability to make strangers cry in darkened rooms, in cars, in headphones with just our voice and our words and we don’t all have the ability to take a persons breath away with our thoughts. We all have our own journeys and we all have our own scars but we don’t all have a way of sharing those with everyone. We may not all be lucky enough to have 1000 sundowns, but we are all lucky enough to dream of them. We may not all be lucky enough to know just how talented Emma Louise is, but when we hear songs like '1000 Sundowns', those of us who do know of her talent are really, really thankful. (Jo Michelmore)

#4. U-HUH

by Tkay Maidza





So don't be near if you be low on the paper
You can save it for later
'Cause we don't tolerate broke behaviour. 

Easily the most fun one can have in three and a half minutes, Tkay Maidza's 'U-Huh' marked a turning point for Australian rap music. As the Adelaide dynamo lays down rapid-fire lines and chitty-bang-bangs her way to the chorus, you realise we've got a world class talent on our hands creating accessible rap music that can compete with the best of them. Released last year, 'U-Huh' would dominate our weekly Top 25 on its way to securing #1 on our 2014 songs of the year countdown. It's been almost twelve months since we first heard one of our absolute favourite tracks and seeing Tkay Maidza's rise in the industry since then has been most excellent. She's released a slew of boss jams, built a stellar reputation as a live performer, courted overseas attention and so much more. And she's done it all in her own Tkay style that we all love. While we were more than happy to stomp our feet like brontosauruses upon her debut, it was the epic chitty-bang-bang-ness of 'U-Huh' that secured Tkay Maidza a permanent position in our music lovin' hearts. (Matt Bond)

#3. CAMEO LOVER
by Kimbra





When everyday's like talking in your sleep!
Love is like a silhouette in dreams! 

I’m not sure anyone knew what they were listening to when they first heard the sweet, sweet sounds of Kimbra’s voice and those completely danceable beats of ‘Cameo Lover’. I’m not sure anyone knew where those beats were going to lead and I’m not sure even Kimbra herself knew where she would be only a few years later. I’m not sure I can listen to it without being transported straight back to each Kimbra gig I’ve seen, each time I’ve danced and each time I’ve sung along to a song that is as so damn sweet and catchy today as it was four years ago. I’m not sure anyone really understood the talent Kimbra possessed when they heard what I think will always be one of the cutest pop songs written, not just in the last five years but possibly, dare I say it, ever? I’m not sure I will ever hear it without smiling, because the cutest pop songs ever will always be the cutest pop songs ever, that’s the beauty of pop. I’m not sure Kimbra will always be a pop singer, because with a basis of songs like those from her debut album Vows and her sophomore The Golden Echo, she’s proven herself as a songwriter not afraid to go places. I’m not sure I’ll ever love any of her songs as much as ‘Cameo Lover’, but I’m willing to keep listening and follow wherever she goes. (Jo Michelmore)

#2. HEART SAYS YES (HEAD SAYS NO)
by Texas Tea




That head says don't you be a fool
That heart, breaking every rule... 

Tea Bags for life! Yep. Lady Gaga has her Little Monsters, Katy Perry has the abomination of grammar fan group that is the Katy Kats and Brisbane's own Texas Tea have their Tea Bags. And we're big Tea Bags. As is often the case with songs we fall head over heels in love with, 'Heart Says Yes (Head Says No) found its way to our G-mail E-mail with an announcement that Texas Tea would be playing a show the following week at the Brisbane's Black Bear Lodge. One listen of the track and plans for the following Friday were scrapped in favour of spending some time listening to Kate Jacobson and Ben Dougherty. Doing so was one of my wiser decisions. Jacobson's soaring vocals and Dougherty's bluesy nature completely won us over. I may have even busted out some jig like dance to the closing number, 'Heart Says Yes (Head Says No)'. Yes, it was amazing. The song was pretty good too. We named it our song of the year in 2012 and Texas Tea still display that title proudly on their Facebook page. Nothing that has come out of this little blog makes me happier. Discovering the sounds of Texas Tea made us want to hear more from Brisbane's independent music scene, encouraged us to head out to gigs featuring local artists we hadn't heard before and introduced us to not only one of our most loved songs of the past five years, but also one of our favourite acts in music. Like I said at the start, Tea Bags for life! (Matt Bond)

#1. BREATHE IN BREATHE OUT
by Thelma Plum





I hope you know this time's for good
Wouldn't come back now even if I could. 

There’s a theme that has run throughout this countdown and there is a theme that runs throughout this blog. It may not be completely obvious, and it’s not completely on purpose, but it’s there. When Matt first started It’s My Kind Of Scene all those years ago, I’m not sure he imagined he’d still be writing all these years later. When he first asked me to write something for IMKOS, I never dreamt I would be still sitting at my computer years later typing away, day and night. I never knew I would scribble blog post ideas on scraps of paper and transfer the thoughts to blogger in the middle of the night. I didn’t know I would type entire posts on my phone while on trains and buses travelling across Europe, I didn’t imagine I would write gig reviews on planes after three hours sleep and I didn’t know I would spend coffee breaks at my day job pressing publish on posts and sharing things on social media while I should have been emailing colleagues. I didn’t know I would make new friends and include old ones on this blogging journey and I didn’t know that some posts would take hours, some posts would be read by two or three and others would be read by thousands. I didn’t know that sometimes the very artists I wrote about would read my words and share them with their worlds and I didn’t know how much that would mean to me. I didn’t know that my words could mean anything to anyone but Matt and I. I didn’t know that some days I would need this blog more than it needed me, to keep my mind from things that my mind needed keeping from and most of all; I didn’t know how much it would change my life.


But essentially, it’s not the blog that has changed anything, but the very thing we write about. It’s the music we have discovered, the experiences shared and the songs we have felt something about that have made our lives that much richer for having, for knowing and for sharing with others. It’s not how many readers we have (although we love every one of you), it’s not how many words we’ve typed; it’s the music that matters.


That little unintentional theme is our love of music, our adoration of something that makes us laugh and dance and sing and smile and cry, something that makes us who we are and something that means the world to both of us. So when placing songs in our countdown, although almost all of them could have been number one, it wasn’t a hard decision who to put there, because Thelma Plum has been an artist that has done all of those things, her music meaning the world and some songs sometimes knowing us better than we know ourselves. Music is like that sometimes and we are so lucky to be able to share that music on this little blog of ours, five years after the very first post. Here’s to another five years sharing music we love with readers we like a lot too. (Jo Michelmore)

The Last 5 Years, #40 - 31

Adele, Little May, Tkay + Kira!

100 - 91

90 - 81

80 - 71

70 - 61

60 - 51

50 - 41

#40. SWITCH LANES
by Tkay Maidza

I don't know why they think we're the same

They link it up but I know I'll switch lanes

  

If you have looked at this little blog more than once or twice in the last two years (thank you), then at some stage it would have been blatantly obvious that Tkay Maidza would be appearing in this countdown at some stage, which brings us to her (first – don’t tell anyone I told you) appearance at number forty. It seems like forever ago that Matt told me I needed to stomp my feet like a Brontosaurus, and while that was actually only two and a half years ago, Tkay has made a very impressive impact in that short time. ‘Switch Lanes’ was a more subdued adventure than her other singles, but it showcased more than Tkay’s extraordinary rapping skills; with each chorus we were treated to her gorgeous singing voice and combined with those steel drums she had herself a faultless track which only added to what has become an (almost) obsessive couple of blogging fans. (Jo Michelmore)

#39. BONES
by Little May

There was this boy I fell apart to

In the backseat of my car to

It was the opening lyrics of ‘Bones’ that got me first. Those words that drew the breath from my lungs and held me down, demanding I listen, demanding I pay attention. The beats kept me entranced, wandering gently through the sounds but then those words pulled me back to the floor. The keys held on to my heart, all of me wanting to curl up within the notes, but then those words again, reminding me of where I was and where I am. The subtle guitars like fingertips through my hair kept me comfortable until they were there again; those words, whispering in my ears, begging to be heard, reaching straight into my life, making me wonder what ever had happened then and what was happening now. Whatever did happen doesn’t matter anymore, because with every listen of ‘Bones’ to comfort and embrace, sometimes Little May's music is all you need to make everything ok. (Jo Michelmore)

#38. RUNAWAY

by Kanye West

I'm so gifted at findin' what I don't like the most

So I think it's time for us to have a toast

You either love or hate Kanye West. It doesn't seem like there's room for much in-between. I like to separate Kanye West the artist from Kanye West the person. As a music maker I love everything about him. As a person? Meh. When 'Runaway' was released, all the way back in 2010 (!), my automatic response when asked if I liked Yeezy was something along the lines of, "he's a wanker, but he makes excellent music." Obviously he's still a bit of wanker, but the older I get the funnier I find Mr. West. You can always count on him for a post-awards show rant, the next great ego-maniacal quote and a cameo appearance on that Kardashian show. More important than that, you can always count on Kanye to release truly fascinating music. 'Runaway' was just one of many masterpieces on My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. You can guarantee he'll have tracks to match it on his upcoming seventh studio album. (Matt Bond)

#37. RECOVER

by Chvrches

And take what you need
And you don't need me

Here’s a confession: I have been one of those crazy people in another car that you stare at while sitting at traffic lights. I have been one of those people who sit behind you in shopping centre car parks while you crane your neck around trying to figure out where those (incredibly catchy) beats are coming from. I have been the person you look in your rear view mirror at, trying to figure out who I’m talking to in my empty car. Yes, I am one of those people you look at while I tap the steering wheel, nod my head and every now and then throw a hand in the air (I have a sedan, not a convertible, so throwing an arm can be a little more difficult. I have always done all of these things, but never more than since the very first day I hear Chrvches. And I think all of those things are indication enough of what I think of 'Recover'. (Jo Michelmore)

#36. ROLLING IN THE DEEP

by Adele

There's a fire starting in my heart

Reaching a fever pitch

It's bringing me out the dark

Has anything been better in music over the past five years than Adele's meteoric rise to the top? The ultimate triumph of substance over style began with the release of 'Rolling In The Deep', which annihilated all that stood in its way, fending off LMFAO, Katy Perry and The Black Eyed Peas to end 2011 with the biggest song of the year on the Billboard Hot 100. At the Grammy Awards it would walk away with Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Its parent album, 21 would take away a bajillion other honours and Adele would become arguably the biggest artist in music. What was it that had the whole world going crazy for Adele? Maybe it was her phenomenal voice. Maybe it was her carefree attitude, not giving a damn what the world thought about her. Or maybe we all just needed a good 'fuck-you' song, because it only takes those opening lines to get you putting those middle fingers up to anyone that's ever taken you for granted. Let's go with a combination of all of those things. (Matt Bond)

#35. I LOVE YOU LIKE I LOVE THIS BLACK EYE

by Texas Tea 

 

I love you like I love this black eye

I love you like I love it when we fight

After one of the many Texas Tea gigs I've had the pleasure of attending, my sister and I were talking about how Kate Jacobson and Ben Dougherty were the greatest and Sam (the sister) was all like, "I don't know how they can look at each other while singing that song." The song in question was 'I Love You Like I Love This Black Eye' and I had to agree. It's always been a live highlight with Kate and Ben alone on the stage, staring at each other and presenting both sides of a relationship ruined by domestic violence and the lengths one can go to if they want to survive. It's heartbreaking, unlike anything I've heard before and how they sing it to each other with such conviction is a testament to just how good Texas Kate and Texas Ben are as performers. I'm listening to this three years after the release of Sad Summer Hits (and album you must listen to) and it still gives me chills. (Matt Bond)

#34. LOST TRACK OF TIME 

by MTNS

 

I screamed out loud again

But you weren't there to hear my call

When I first heard MTNS get some airplay on JJJ I got that little “yippee!” feeling in my stomach like you do when your favourite artists get airplay. Oh, is that only me? Um, I guess it’s like when your favourite team plays good games in the footballs, or something like that…I think? Shut up, I like music more than football. For a little while there in 2013, it seemed like everywhere I turned I heard the sweet, sweet sounds of MTNS. Maybe it was because for a little while there I was totally obsessed with those sweet, sweet sounds of these boys from Brisbane. I kept seeing them at gigs, I kept hearing them on playlists and I think I saw one of them on the street once. That was a good day. Better than the day your favourite team won the football game. Maybe. (Jo Michelmore)

#33. HIDE 
by Little May

Taking steps toward your door

I hadn't let myself before

What have Little May got coming up on their schedule? Let's see... next month they're heading off overseas to the UK, Ireland and France before making their way to the USA in June, which includes a festival performance at Bonnaroo. After a short break they return to the UK for Reading and Leeds. Then it's back to Ireland for Electric Picnic. There's also a debut album to be released at some stage and if no one has put the ladies forward as support for Fleetwood Mac's Australian tour, can I? As someone with the power to do that, which I am not, I think they'd be the perfect fit. You may have noticed I've said very little about 'Hide' and why it's one of our favourite songs of the past five years. If you've paid attention to this blog over the past five years (thanks, we love you) then I wouldn't have to since I spent like a year or three obsessing over those perfect Little May harmonies, the faultless lead performance from Liz Drummond, the totally gorgeous music that holds you under a spell and the impeccable storytelling prowess of Drummond, Hannah Field and Annie Hamilton. The fire that started in my heart the first time I heard 'Hide' burns just as bright as ever. We couldn't wait to see where Little May's journey would take them and it's taking them to all the places we hoped (and kinda knew) it would. True talent can't be kept down and Little May continue to succeed as only the very best music makers can. We couldn't be happier for them. (Matt Bond) 

#32. ANGELS
by The xx

And the end is unknown

But I think that I'm ready

As long as you're with me

It's all trendy to utilise sparse beats and be all hip with the production duties to impress the kids these days. Really though, that's all because of The xx. Only youngsters themselves, the band would take out the Mercury Music Prize with their debut, xx and win over the world with the follow-up, Coexist. It's the latter that was home to 'Angels', easily one of the finest, chilled out numbers to be released in, well, ever. Original review time because, as you already know, I've gotten worse at the whole writing thing as the years go on. Jks, I'm awesome. "Has there ever been a song so immediately calming as 'Angels'? It disarms you with the opening guitar lines, before Romy Madley Croft and her siren call beckons you to follow her into a world so full of love, you'd think there was nothing else to feel. I'm left feeling like it's all a little too good to be true. Is she expressing a true, deep love that she just can't find the words to describe? Or is she doing her best to convince herself and you, the listener that what she feels is right. "If someone believed me, they would be as in love with you as I am," leaves so many questions in my mind. The way she repeats 'love' throughout makes me wonder... if she says it enough, does it make it true? It's this back and forth, is it real or isn't it that keeps me coming back for more. I'll jump between both views, my love for The xx and 'Angels' never diminishing." (Matt Bond)

#31. WHEN ALL YOUR LOVE IS NOT ENOUGH

 by Kira Puru and the Bruise

Leave me to bleed

Tell me what to do

 With my heart

I’m going to sound like a crazy person, but I’m almost a little bit ashamed when I hear the opening notes of ‘When All Your Love Is Not Enough’, because I still can’t quite figure out how Kira and her Bruise pals are not more of a well-known name, in this country, in my city, I’d even be happy if someone in my neighbourhood knew who she was. That voice is indescribable, if the emotion could be harnessed to treat broken hearts then bars and bottle shops across the world might go out of business, but Kira Puru would be famous and that would make me happy. Except I'd still like a beverage every now and then. Guess you can't have everything. So what if I sound like a crazy person? It’s true. Kira should be well-known and it only takes one listen to figure that out. Two listens and you’ll be hooked. Three listens and your neighbourhood will know who she is too, and that is just the beginning. (Jo Michelmore)

If they've been this good so far, can you even imagine the rest? You don't have to, because we'll be back soon with thirty more amazing songs...

10 and 1 - Australia's Most Wanted 2014

Seriously, Gotye... release some new music. Please?

Not to worry, we haven't decided to earn some extra "revenue" by turning into pseudo crime fighters by night, assisting the po-po in hunting down Australia's most wanted criminals. There's a couple of problems with that idea.

  1. What revenue?
  2. We already have jobs and do this whole blog thing in our spare time. We're pseudo writers by
       night. Turning to a life of fighting crime (possibly in coloured spandex, undies on the outside)
       would be stretching ourselves a little too thin. And me, spandex and thin sounds like a lie.

Nah, I'm just taking a look at my most wanted albums by Australian artists this year. It is Australian Music Month after all, so it's the perfect time to look at some Australian acts that have been away for awhile and me wants back in the game. Some of them haven't been away for that long at all, but whatevs, I just want them back releasing new music, like now. We already know about some albums scheduled for release. The Jezabels return before January is over with their sophomore LP. And Little May and Thelma Plum have us anxiously awaiting the release of their EPs. But the ten acts below? Nothing is set in stone for their future, but if you wish upon a star or something, maybe we'll get some good news soon. And I will leave us with one Australian act that I could live without hearing this year, but will undoubtedly release an abomination of a track soon. Probably tomorrow. Enjoy!

AUSTRALIA'S MOST WANTED 2014

by Matt Bond

THE TEN:

Angus and Julia Stone

This brother/sister duo needs to take a big jet plane away from their solo ambitions and reunite Angus with Julia in the studio together, where they belong. Their last LP, Down The Way, was released all the way back in 2010 and saw them win the ARIA Award for Album of the Year and top the triple J Hottest 100. I know some friends would categorise the family Stone as being 'Aussie Bore Folk' and I don't really have an argument against that, I just like these two together as singer/songwriters. From their previous two albums, they've shown they are amongst the best of the best Australian music has to offer. Their solo efforts? Not so much.

Clairy Browne and The Bangin' Rackettes

Clairy Browne and her Bangin' Rackettes have been busy, busy building up a solid reputation over in the USA over the past couple of years, earning rave reviews for Browne's booming voice and the visual awesomeness of the band's live performances. They deserve all the plaudits they've earned. Now they need to release the follow-up to Baby Caught The Bus. Please?

Ella Hooper

This one is essentially a definite. We have a name for Hooper's debut solo effort - In Tongues. It was announced early last year as seeing a mid-2013 release. We heard the stellar single 'Haxan', but 2013 came and went and there was no In Tongues released by Spicks and Specks' new star. We have it on good authority that we'll get to hear something new soon and by good authority I mean some tweetage from Ella that read and I quote, "More coming SOON. For real. Like truly. I promise! ;)" I'm terrible at interpreting what the 'wink' emoticon means. It could just be Ella and I getting our standard flirt on after that whole me asking her to marry me thing last year, but outside of fantasy land, it probably means she's releasing In Tongues. Either way... win!

Gotye

How do you follow-up one of the most successful Australian songs of all time? Gotye said in some interviews after the success of 'Somebody That I Used To Know' that he would move in a more 'pop' orientated direction for his next album. I don't know what to expect, but I'm excited about it. And hey, do another song with Kimbra.

The Medics

"Hey Brisbane! Playing a show tonight at the Zoo with ALL NEW SONGS. We're on at 9:30pm! Bam." I like The Medics. Their music is good and they use 'bam' to highlight something important. The important message to take from that Facebook post? They've got ALL NEW SONGS! All new songs means a sophomore album is coming, something to follow the incredible debut, Foundations. Here's hoping we hear some recorded new tunes from these guys real soon.

Operator Please

Who wants to hear some more songs about ping pong? Literally nobody. You know what though, Operator Please's last album, Gloves, is one of the best released by an Australian act in the last decade. And one of the most underrated too. I was sad to see these guys and gals had taken an extended hiatus and released some side projects, but here's me saying get the band back together Gold Coast kids! Which I know doesn't mean much, but come on. Do it.

Sneaky Sound Sytem

I was surprised we didn't hear something new from the Sneaky ones after Connie features as Seal's sidekick on The Voice. They didn't even let her sing on the show, right? Feel free to correct me, I didn't watch that much of it. Anyway, maybe 2014 will be the right time for Sneaky Sound System to release their next album. Miss Connie's voice and incredible stage presence continues to keep them at the top of Australia's crop of dance artists and we really need someone to say, hey Havana Brown, this is how it's done, now put some pants on.

Tame Impala

This is supposedly confirmed, but if the mighty Wikipedia doesn't say it is, I ain't buying it. Still, Tame Impala would be a most welcome sight on the 'future releases' schedule. They won the ARIA Award for Album of the Year for Lonerism last year and have recently been nominated for a Grammy in the alternative category. Consider this a late 2014 possibility.

Texas Tea

If we get word that our favourite Brisbane act are releasing something new, I'm pretty sure it will be considered our most anticipated release of the year. I'm talking drool and possible mouth foaming here people. Texas Tea are just that good. You might remember them from such past blog posts as the Top 112 Songs of 2012, in which they came in at NUMBER ONE with 'Heart Says Yes (Head Says No), or their Best Group and Australian Artist of the Year Scene Award wins. They also scored a nomination at the QMA's in 2013 for Album of the Year. We remain their biggest tea bags and would love, love, love to hear some new music in 2014.

The Temper Trap

I just saw that The Temper Trap are definitely releasing their third studio album in 2014. So yay. I guess.

THE ONE:

Reece Mastin

Oh no, definitely no Mastin "jams" to be played here thanks you very much. Reece, you'll never be as cool as Simba, but Scar's message is something you should take to heart. Stick to your AMF Bowling Ads and sexting scandals. Just don't release any new music. In fact, the only thing I'd like you to release in 2014 is that nice girl from Home and Away. She seems like a sweet kid.

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!