Top 100 Songs of 2018 - #40 to #31

Alexander Biggs, Janelle Monae, Baker Boy + Eves Karydas!

#100 - #91

#90 - #81

#80 - #71

#70 - #61

#60 - #51

#50 - #41

#40. WITH OR WITHOUT

by Tired Lion

Take me away with you I'll be your come down

I'll be there for you now.

When an announcement came across the Facebooks that Matt Tanner was leaving Tired Lion, I had a bad feeling Tired Lion was about to go the way so many of my fave bands had gone before. Dropping a banging debut only to fade away, like so many young AUS bands do. Luckily for us, Sophie Hopes and the rest of the band took some time to regroup and have come back sounding as full of energy and attitude as ever with their most immediately engaging track yet. ‘With or Without You’ has one of the funnest, most loveable choruses of the year and you know you want to be shouting along with Hopes as she promises she’ll be there for you. Written in response to the band’s line-up changes and an uncertain future, ‘With or Without You’ acts as a riotous send off to the first Tired Lion era and promises an exciting second. Bring it on. (Matt Bond)

#39. WHITE DRESS

by Dunes

I forget, what were my dreams?

Come to the end, what have I seen?

It is surprisingly hard to find out a lot about New Zealand’s sisterly duo Dunes using generic searches like Dunes/Dunes Music/Dunes Music New Zealand/Dunes Album and so on and so forth. Sure they’re generic searches, but when your an act with a song as good as ‘White Dress’ you should be getting bombarded with search hits relating to how amazing said act is. Those words, those dreamy vocals, the hopeless romanticism of it all... they need to know the air you breathe, people. Why won’t you let them? Dunes count Florence Welch amongst their growing fan base and if it’s good enough for Florence it’s good enough for us all. I'm pretty sure that's international law. (Matt Bond)

#38. CLOSE ENOUGH

by Alexander Biggs

You're making sense to me

Feels like I can see, the forest for the trees...

Oh my gosh this is lovely. This is just lovely. The twisting and turning guitars, the percussion that drives but doesn’t overtake, the swing along sing song melody and the sweet, sweet lyrics; “feels like I can see forest for the trees and they grow in your vicinity”. Alexander Biggs manages that magical balance between confident yet humble throughout his music and he somehow makes it seem so easy to get lost within the storybook feel of his songs, if I could literally step inside any song on this countdown, this could be the one. (Jo Michelmore)

#37. MR LA DI DA DI

by Baker Boy

God dam, not breaking a sweat

Walking with a bounce in my step.

There’s about a billion things I want to write about Baker Boy and how important he and artists like him are to the Australian music landscape, and, as music is pretty much everything, how important he and artists like him are to Australian society in general, but then I always come back to that exact point, which is that music is pretty much everything. Which means that I can say or write a bazillion things about the impressiveness and importance of Danzal Baker, aka Baker Boy; but the most important thing is this. He writes and performs really good songs and if you’re not moving by the end of ‘Mr La Di Da Di’, you may want to check your pulse. You feeling ok? (Jo Michelmore)

#36. PYNK

by Janelle Monae ft. Grimes

Let's count the ways we could make this last forever.

No, it’s not just that song with the vagina pants video. Yes, it is that song. But Janelle Monae’s ‘PYNK’ is so much more. No, it’s not just about lady parts, but sure there is a delightful amount of time dedicated to female anatomy in the verses and that’s totally fine considering a whole bunch of us were brought into the world via lady business, yeah? Even if 'PYNK' was just that vagina song with the vagina pants video, that would be okay too. In 2018 we can listen to a great pop song about vaginas and the world won't fall apart. On a reasonable list of all the things that are making the world fall apart, this song wouldn't be on it. Janelle Monae wants to make the world a better, more inclusive place through her art and music and she's doing a mighty fine job of achieving her goals. Oh, and about those vagina pants (technically vulva trousers), you might find it as lovely as I do that some of the dancers aren't wearing them because Monae doesn't believe, "that all women need to possess a vagina to be a woman," and if that's not a lovely shout out to those that identify as women then I don't know what is. The part of the song including the following words is just the bestest thing ever too. “I wanna fall through the stars, getting lost is my favourite part, let’s count the ways we could make this last forever.” (Matt Bond)

#35. DOWNTOWN SHUTDOWN

by The Presets

Downtown shutdown, I can feel it

It's coming over, turnin' my lights out.

Take your standard/amazing Presets brand of eclectic, electronic soundscapes and throw in a gospel choir from Shepparton and you get the magical ride that is 'Downtown Shutdown'. Like the majority of their most memorable tunes, The Presets want you to take more from the song than just a strong desire to get wasted and dance the night away. You could totally do that with 'Downtown Shutdown', don't get me wrong, but you can do that while also remembering this was written in reaction to Sydney's controversial lockout laws that have essentially killed off the Kings Cross entertainment district. You want to enjoy the music for what it is, go for it. You want to enjoy the music for the message and the protest party vibes, you can do that too. The Presets continue to cater to all. (Matt Bond)


Firstly, let me get my rant out of the way: lock out laws are ridiculous. They are a bandaid solution. I've more to say on that, but I've got words about songs to write, so; end rant. Now to the song, which is a healthy reaction to said lockout laws. One of my closest friends saw The Presets play earlier this year, and enjoyed it immensely, but I cannot listen to this song, or any of The Presets 2018 album, Hi Vis, without thinking of my beautiful friend, who sent me a message days later, stating; “I just realised why so many people were wearing tradie shirts at that gig”. Did they start a revolution of tradie hi visibility safety fashion with this album? I’m not sure, but this is probably my favourite track from said album. (Jo Michelmore)

#34. I LIKE IT

by Cardi B ft. Bad Bunny and J Balvin

They call me Cardi Bardi, banging body

Spicy mami, hot tamale.

I couldn't tell you all that much about Cardi B. I've listened to some interviews and she is laugh out loud funny with a larger than life personality. From those interviews you can tell she's worked very hard for a very long time to get to where she is. I believe she was on a reality show (?) featuring emerging rap acts. There was a fight between Cardi and maybe Nicki Minaj or Minaj's security guard at a fashion (?) show. She's recently split with a fella called Offset (?) and they had a little one named Kulcha (?). There's a lot of questions there, but there's no question about how infectious her music is. She's been the hottest rap act in all of music this year and a lot of that has to do with her worldwide star-making turn on 'I Like It' featuring Bad Bunny (?) and J Balvin (?). Cardi kills it on her opening verse and the choruses. Misters Bunny and Balvin (?) are there too, but 'I Like It' is all about the lead artist and I think we'll find that the rap game is going to be all about Cardi B for a long time to come. (Matt Bond)  


It’s a countdown of all of 2018. Of course Cardi B was going to feature. I can’t say I know much about her, as I probably don't follow the right celebrity accounts on the socials, or many for that matter, but she's made enough of an impact this year that I know it wouldn't be a 2018 countdown without her. I'm not sure Bad Bunny or J Balvin would have made it without her though. I don’t know who they are. To be honest, I don’t know much about anyone anymore, but I know I’d enjoy a beverage as I listen to this track, because I like it like that (obvious what I did there) and as Matt said to me, we like ALL of the beverages, I mean musics. Damn right we do. (Jo Michelmore)

#33. LADY BLUE

by Emily Wurramara

I wish I could swim here forever

Miss Lady Blue, me and you.

If I knew nothing about Emily Wurramara then with the first notes of ‘Lady Blue’ I may be forgiven for thinking she’s some kind of blues or jazz singer from another time, her stunning voice is from somewhere else, and as it washes over the instrumentation, those constant repeated beats create the exact feeling of the constant rhythm of the ocean that ‘Lady Blue’ is written about. Is this onomatopoeia in a musical sense? Is that how one spells onomatopoeia? I’m unsure if there is such a thing what that would be called, but I do know when I listen to ‘Lady Blue’ I’m sitting by the seaside, I’m watching the waves, and I’m feeling…good. Good. You can’t ask more of a beautiful song than that. (Jo Michelmore)

#32. FURTHER THAN THE PLANES FLY

by Eves Karydas

Shoot, shoot, shoot

I'm so bored of all the talking.

Dammit. I like to be really positive about these songs, because after all they’re a representation of our faves of the year, but I’ve got a problem with this song. Eves Karydas has a voice that is too good. How am I meant to hit those high notes when I’m singing in my car? Huh? I sound like a bad, bad ringtone wailing ‘shoot shoot shoot…further than the planes fly” in my highest squeaky mouse tone, which Miss Karydas hits with not a concern in the world and sounds more magnificent than mouse. This kind of confident pop is going to take Eves K a long long way. Planes fly a long way but Eves Karydas voice flies higher. (Jo Michelmore)

#31. ALL THE STARS

by Kendrick Lamar ft. SZA

Love, let's talk about love

Is it anything and everything you hoped for?

Or do the feeling haunt you?

I know the feeling haunt you.

WAKANDA FOREVER... part 2! I think it's universally acknowledged that Kendrick Lamar is brilliant and that's exactly what he was throughout the entire Black Panther soundtrack. But especially on 'All Of The Stars'. So yeah, Kendrick Lamar's awesome. But let's talk about SZA, who completely owns every moment she appears throughout the track. The second half of the song really belongs to her and as that booming SZA delivered chorus finishes up the track, you're left wanting to hear so much more from her. The shots of SZA dancing her way through the stars in the video are gorgeous too. I just want to keep saying SZA. Is that because I was only recently told it's pronounced 'sizza'. Yes. Yes it is. (Matt Bond) 

                   

Top 117 Songs of 2017 - #10 to #1

#117 to #101

#100 to #91

#90 to #81

#80 to #71

#70 to #61

#60 to #51

#50 to #41

#40 to #31

#30 to #21

#20 to #11

#10. EVERY DAY'S THE WEEKEND

by Alex Lahey

My hands are cold but my feet are not

Are you leaving me or have you just forgot?

No, but like seriously, how good would it be? No morning alarm, long cups of coffee, hours of whatever the hell you want, tasty beverages and probably some cheese. Over sunset. With someone you like. Every day! It might have been a bit of a challenge for Alex Lahey to include "tasty beverages and some cheese" in her lyrics, but she's done a good job nonetheless. Her rapid beat and fuzzy guitars combined with her fabulous way with words, take what is one damn catchy pop track to an almost heartbreaking kind of tale of obsession and self loss, and like Alex Lahey has had a way of doing all year, she makes you feel good about it. That's the kind of music I love. And Alex Lahey, I love. (Jo Michelmore)

Alex Lahey had a huge year. She cracked the Hottest 100 in January with 'You Don't Think You Look People Like Me', toured up a storm at home and abroad, dominated the radio waves over at triple J and released her debut album, I Love You Like A Brother. Her down to earth brand of rock has earned Lahey a steadily rising legion of fans, which really shouldn't come as a surprise when the music is as catchy, witty and relatable as songs like 'Every Day's The Weekend'. A transfer of good vibes are guaranteed when it comes to listening to this one and whether you like it or not, you're going to be jumping around and singing, "woah-oh, woah-oh, woah-ohhhhh," along with our leading lady. But you're going to like it. You're going to like it a whole lot. Fun and carefree with just the right amount of self-deprecation and honest assessments, it's songs like 'Every Day's The Weekend' that will see Alex Lahey's star only continue to rise in the years to come. (Matt Bond)

#9. REGULAR TOUCH

by Vera Blue

Now she's alone, dancing like nobody is home

Free on her own, not attached and ready to roam.

Don't you just want to travel to beautiful places with Vera Blue and dance in the snow and always be happy? If you don't, you'll want to after watching the video for 'Regular Touch'. The song was Blue's epic, singalong moment from her album Perennial. You would more than likely be familiar with it since it's all over the radio and a lock for the Hottest 100. Because it's the awesome pick-me-up song we all needed in 2017. 'Regular Touch' captures those feels following a break-up, where you go from wanting to be with pretty much anyone to get over someone to wanting to be with no one. At least for a little while. Because you are a strong, independent woman (or man, I am a man... or am I?) and you don't need nobody. You're going to live your life like Shania Twain in 'That Don't Impress Me Much'. Or, more relevant to today, like Vera Blue in 'Regular Touch'. (Matt Bond)


A big singalong chorus, an electronic beat with some catchy synths and what sounds like a choir but is probably a button, Vera Blue knows how to pull a good song together. Beside all of that you throw a lyric in about being secure in your own skin for all those who need reminding of it, and a good song becomes a great song. The clip is stunningly shot and while I have no idea why she's wearing such beautiful gowns in the middle of fields with herds of horses, you put it with a song like 'Regular Touch' and then you've turned what was a great song, into an incredible song and you really can't get much better than that. (Jo Michelmore)

#8. THE DEEPEST SIGHS, THE FRANKEST SHADOWS

by Gang of Youths

And if everything is temporary

I will bear the unbearable, terrible triteness of being.

For a band that didn't exist five years ago, Gang Of Youths have certainly found their place in the ears, eyes and hearts of their audience, and that audience is growing day by day. And for a band of boys who all have their own stories of struggle to tell, they've certainly managed to survive and make music to question and explain it all. And for a band that have already had a bunch of nominations and awards thrown at them in their short career, they have remained so thankful and humble and pleasant about the whole process. And for a song that has more words than some books I've read, they've made their story mine, and my story theirs, and it's that sense of welcoming, that sense of hell and comfort that make this one of my favourite songs, from one of my favourite albums by one of my favourite bands of the year. Of ever. (Jo Michelmore) 

#7. FRESH

by Tired Lion

Idiot, you'll never try

Sometimes I think the world's a lie.

I like it when bands like Tired Lion exist, because they allow me the to like the music I liked back in the day without actually listening to that music and making me feel like that was a million years ago. But beside that, they're so really, really good at their grungy things I can't fault them for playing it. It was good then, it's good now. This four piece from Perth seem to have mastered the art of rock and grunge and pop in the last seven years, and they always remind me of all the rock music I've loved. 'Fresh' is made to be a live masterpiece, it's a song that will play as well in a bar just as well as it will at a festival or in a stadium, and those slightly depressing, slightly amusing lyrics capture the spirit of what it was like twenty years ago anyway. Except it's not. It's better. And Tired Lion is here, not then, so I'm happy for now with here thanks. (Jo Michelmore)

#6. LIFE GOES ON

by E^ST

We go on by ourselves and hope that we won't be for long

Then we find someone else, it starts again and life goes on.

There's a series of words in this song at the beginning and the end that almost completely describes the way I felt some days this year. "Momentary. Temporary. Transient. Impermanent. Fugitive. Short-lived. Fleeting." Then you throw that together with the way E^ST sings those high notes "you seem happy, guess that I am too, but I can't forget about you..." and the anthemic chant of "life goes on" and you've pretty much summed up life in 2017. It's a song made to be played at festivals, in cars on hot sunny days, and it's a song with so many highs and lows, It's one of those songs made for a film, a high school drama, a twenty-thirty-forty-something searching for love rom-com. Which is kind of indicative of the kind of audience E^ST deserves, which is to say, a big one. (Jo Michelmore) 

#5. BOYS WILL BE BOYS

by Stella Donnelly

My friend told me of a secret

Told me that she blames herself.

I didn't know Stella Donnelly's name before listening to her Thrush Metal EP from earlier in the year. But after hearing 'Boys Will Be Boys', I'm never going to forget it. As powerful as any song you're ever likely to hear, the track takes a look at instances of victim blaming in cases of sexual assault and rape and the excuses often made for perpetrators. Confronting, timely and conversation starting, 'Boys Will Be Boys' will be ticking over in your mind long after it finishes. "Time to pay the fucking rent." Too fucking right, Stella Donnelly. Since the voting opened for the next Hottest 100, it's been amazing to see how many people have got 'Boys Will Be Boys' on their list of ten picks. It would be an incredibly powerful statement to see this one go all the way. If not that, then hopefully like the Amy Shark push from last year, we'll see a very strong finish for Stella Donnelly. (Matt Bond)


I don't walk down the street where my confidence was stolen. I can't look at the door where the fear began. I avoid the corner where I was told what I was supposedly worth and I've never been back to the place where what was taken couldn't be given back. I can't say out loud the things that weren't my fault and I can't hashtag the words because the damage is bigger than four little lines of a symbol on a keyboard. The important part is this. That street cannot remember, the door was knocked down, the corner leads to somewhere else these days. The place remains but the time has changed, and the damage is done but my strength is bar none. What I'm saying is exactly what Stella Donnelly is saying, without saying anything at all. It's not ok to take something from someone, whether that be physical or emotional. And it's almost less ok to dismiss the actions of someone who takes and does those things. And what has been done cannot be undone, but songs like this make it easier to realise the slight possibility that those who think they have the power, who do things that are reprehensible, will one day soon enough find out the power is not in their actions, it is in reaction, and that means the reactions of everyone. Every. Single. Person. My own reaction is being lived, regardless of what I have faced. Some moments that reaction is anger and fear, some moments that reaction is doubt, some moments it is strength and courage and so much love, but when that reaction is the same as so many others, and is inspired by music, and songs like Stella Donnelly's, well that is the reaction I am able to live with the most. (Jo Michelmore) 

#4. TOWERS

by Gretta Ray

Was never my intention to, grow overly attached

Although I'm unsure of what else one's supposed to do

When they are made to feel like that...

It's the oldest story in the book. Boy meets girl or boy or non binary person. They fall in love. Something happens that makes one of them fall out of love with the other. The other person doesn't know why. Questions are asked. Answers aren't given. Drinks are consumed. Text messages are sent at an ungodly hour. The one that called it off wants back in. Return to the 'fall in love' section and repeat through to text messages section. The cycle continue until one calls it off. A feeling of freedom and relief is felt. And they can both move on. Like I said, it's the oldest story in the book. If you want to hear it told in a much, much, much better way, I suggest listening to Gretta Ray's 'Towers'. She's a far better storyteller than you or (especially) I will ever be. This song is absolutely beautiful. (Matt Bond)

#3. FEEL IT STILL

by Portugal. The Man

I'm a rebel just for kicks now

I been feeling it since 1966 now.

Do you think Portugal. The Man knew 'Feel It Still' was going to be as big of a hit as it has been? Do you think they would have even cared? I mean, this is a band that's released eight albums throughout a career that's lasted over a decade. It's also the first and possibly last time they've ever hit it big on the charts. But if this is their fifteen minutes, it's safe to say they've made the most of their time in the music world's spotlight. 'Feel It Still' has all the right hooks to get those feet tapping along. It's a slow burn, but once it's in your head, you won't be getting it out anytime soon. This is best supported by the gradual climb up charts all over the world to Top 5 glory. Sure, the charts aren't an actual reflection on how 'good' music is. But at least we can say Portugal. The Man should a little bit of an increase in cash flow from this. And if that means they get to make music as good as this for many years to come, that can only be a good thing. (Matt Bond)

#2. GREEN LIGHT

by Lorde

Oh, honey I'll come get my things

But I can't let go.

According to the reaction as Lorde released 'Green Light', no one was expecting her to have as much talent as she actually does. It was all "oh she's taken a different turn" and "well we weren't expecting a banger (?)" and such things, but anyone who had listened to her so far small but very impressive back catalogue should have known. Filled with basic pop melody and all the right riffs, she's an artist who knows her music, and this, the first single from what became one of my fave albums of the year, proved that she's an artist who's not afraid of her skills. She'll take turns you don't expect, she'll make sounds you can't imagine and she'll do it all with that sense of doubt in her lyrics, that makes her oh so relatable. We like her. Luckily almost everyone else seems to as well. (Jo Michelmore)

21 years old and on top of the world. That's how Lorde ends her 2017, with her second album Melodrama out in the world, a world tour wrapped up and a Grammy Award nomination for Album of the Year secured. Everything that's led to those moments started with the release of 'Green Light' in March. It was as delicious as pop can be; with hand claps, piano loops and lyrical gold. It was moody and atmospheric, like the Lorde of old (or even younger Lorde), but it had an enthusiasm and energy that can only come with age and experience. Once upon a time, people were prone to laugh and make comment about Lorde's dancing. These days, it's her confidence and zero fucks given attitude that have the same people dancing along with the same sense of wild abandon. It's so good, it makes you want to hire an Uber just so you can dance on top of it like in the video. If that's not pop perfection, I don't know what is. One of my favourite music moments of the year was experiencing 'Green Light' performed live alongside 10,000 screaming fans at the Brisbane Riverstage last month. It's a moment I won't be forgetting anytime soon. And the same goes for the song. (Matt Bond)  

#1. LET ME DOWN EASY

by Gang of Youths

You wanted to fight for a cause, then go out and fall in love

       Don't stop, don't stop believing, in truth and grace in the grievance.        

          

After 116 songs, we finally arrive at our number one song of the year. Gang of Youths have released so many excellent tracks from Go Farther In Lightness. We've already checked in with 'What Can I Do If The Fire Goes Out?', 'Atlast Drowned' and 'The Deepest Sighs, The Frankest Shadows.' You should remember the last one and if you don't, maybe try some brain trainer games or something because that was like seven songs ago, m8. It's this song right here that gets our top pick though, 'Let Me Down Easy'. Maybe it's the knockout arrangements, with strings and a driving bass line you start nodding your head to from the start. Maybe it's the open desire in the lyrics to be treated with something we all deserve. Kindness. Maybe it's the reminder that, "sometimes life sucks, everything is lame," which means that sometimes life doesn't suck and it's those moments you need to celebrate and hold onto. Maybe it's the evolution of Gang of Youths into one of the best bands in all of music. Maybe it's all of those things and maybe it's so many more. 2017 was the Gang of Youths' year. And they're still only getting started. (Matt Bond)


There are artists on this countdown that make me so very happy, that manage to lift me from my seat and force some (pretty bad) moves from me, that get into my hips and make 'em shake, and they are artists I really like. There are artists on this countdown that make me so very sad, that bring memories and moments rushing back, some of them faced and some of them feared, but all of them welcome, and they are artists that I adore. There are artists in this countdown that make me think, that inspire ways with words that visit places in my mind that I haven't been before, territories unchartered, and those are artists I really admire. And then there are artists like this one. Who, with their way with sound and words, do all of the above. Artists who piece together notes that make a physical difference to me. They make my skin tingle, make my heart beat a little faster, a little slower; they make me breathe in gulps and make the salty water fall from my eyes. They are the people I hold in the highest regard, right behind my family and my friends, they are the next in line as the people who make this life worth living. Which brings me to our number one song. 'Let Me Down Easy', by Gang Of Youths, a band that have become one of those very special artists to a lot of people this year. It's a song that, with its beats and percussion creates the goosebumps, a song that, with its guitars and strings makes me think I can throw on a pair of boots and place myself on a stage. A song that, with all its words makes me smile that bittersweet smile; "not everything's as easy as making lemonade..." and makes me reminisce; "from a loss and better years..." and a song that reminds me of all of the loved ones, "here's another toast, just to you..." But most of all, this is a song that, no matter which point, which day I'm facing, which thought I'm sitting with, this is a band and a song that reminds me what all of these 117 songs have somehow reminded me, each in their own way, that each day, each moment, that this life is worth it all; "don't stop, don't stop believing, in truth, in grace and in grievance.." (Jo Michelmore)
 

2017 Scene Award for Song of the Year
Winner: 'Let Me Down Easy' - Gang of Youths
Runner-Up: 'Green Light' - Lorde

 2016
Winner: 'Black Smoke' by Emily Wurramara
   Runner-Up: 'Simulation' by Tkay Maidza


2015
Winner: 'Clip My Wings' by Montaigne
Runner-Up: 'Hold On Together' by Jeremy Neale ft. Phoebe Imhoff

2014
Winner: 'Uh-Huh' by Tkay Maidza
Runner-Up: 'How Much Does Your Love Cost?' by Thelma Plum

2013
Winner: 'Royals' by Lorde
Runner-Up: 'Get Lucky' by Daft Punk ft. Pharrell Williams

2012
Winner: 'Heart Says Yes (Head Says No)' by Texas Tea
Runner-Up: '212' by Azealia Banks ft. Lazy Jay

 2011
Winner: 'Somebody That I Used To Know' by Gotye ft. Kimbra
Runner-Up: 'Cameo Lover' by Kimbra

 2010:
Winner: 'Not In Love' by Crystal Castles ft. Robert Smith
Runner-Up: 'XXXO' by M.I.A 

Top 117 Songs of 2017 - #40 to #31

#117 to #101

#100 to #91

#90 to #81

#80 to #71

#70 to #61

#60 to #51

#50 to #41

#40. WOMAN'S WORLD

by OKENYO

 


Wear my heels not to appeal to your senses

I'm not covered up because you're senseless, they can put that shit on the census.

The amount of lyrics that jump out in this song like I could have written them myself is amazing. "You can call me feminazi, go ahead and call me nasty" well that's happened more than once or twice, "wear my heels not to appeal to your senses" well I'm certainly not putting myself through that pain of for anyone else, ain't that the truth...and the words they just go on and on. You put them over a hip hop beat, you match them with a stunning and simply shot clip, and there you have an anthem of sorts, with a powerful message. I guess because it feels like it's true "I'm a very busy woman with a lot on my plate so you better eat it up before I take it away..." (Jo Michelmore) 

#39. HEY LOVE

by Emily Wurramara

 


But the winds will guide you back

To mother, to mother, to mother.

We already knew what a beautiful talent Emily Wurramara has, with songs from last year like 'Black Smoke' and 'Blue Moon, Black Sea' earning the Brisbane-based artist critical praise and the support of triple J. We loved the warmth and positive vibes that radiated from 'Black Smoke' so much, we named it the #1 song in last year's countdown. In 2017, Wurramara grew even more as a songwriter by bringing a voice to the racial and physical abuse her mother endured as a child simply for having a full blood Aboriginal mother. Wurramara has the voice of a true storyteller and her performance throughout 'Hey Love' commands your attention with evocative lines like, "her mum was the skin of the blanket of the night, the stars were inside her so she could follow the light back home to where she belong." Another powerful addition to Emily Wurramara's collection of tracks. We can't wait to hear more from one of our favourite emerging artists and we also wish her all the best and all of the happiness for next year as she welcomes her first bub into the world! (Matt Bond)  

#38. WHAT CAN I DO IF THE FIRE GOES OUT?

by Gang of Youths

 


Can you still show me the way? Can you still show me a light?

'Cause I was only a kid when I fell and you left me behind.

There is a certain kind of controlled mania in those first few notes of 'What Can I Do If The Fire Goes Out' that seems to be the perfect musical description of exactly the way I feel about this band. Those quickfire drums echoing my heartbeat and the intense high pitched melodies matching the feelings of happiness and melancholy and recognition and acceptance in my stomach whenever I hear their tones. This is a rock anthem, a combination of desperation and acceptance, a tale of acknowledgement and defeat, a story of bittersweet that these five boys from all over the world tell so well, over and over again. It amazes me that this is a band of boys in their 20s, because within their songs lies a maturity much older and wiser, but I guess that's part of the magic of music. I think I recall hearing one of them recently say they believed in the power of rock n roll, and it's questioning but confident songs like this one that make me still believe in that power too. (Jo Michelmore)

#37. LOVE

by Lana Del Rey

 


You're part of the past, but now you're the future

Signals crossing can get confusing.

Lana Del Rey will always be an artist that exists in a romantically melancholic world. Gestures of commitment have been defined by a willingness to die for the one she loves, questions of fidelity as she ages and her looks fade have been raised and she's prone to getting those summertime blues when her paramour goes away for like a weekend or something. But those are all exaggerated stories, a bit of drama... great for a song, but once you're over say the age of nineteen you might be able to appreciate the tales, but you can hardly relate to them. If I told someone they were my 'ride or die', I imagine we'd both laugh and laugh and then never be able to see each other again. We wouldn't want Lana Del Rey any other way than how she's been thus far, but you might have noticed something a little different throughout this Lust for Life era. She's happy. As genuinely happy as I think she'll be able to sound on a record. Perhaps it's because she's in love, but I don't know what gave that away... maybe the lead single being called 'Love'? Reflecting, offering advice and saying love really can be enough. And she's smiling. The incredible cinematography in the video is the icing on the cake for one of LDR's best singles yet. (Matt Bond)  

#36. CILANTRO

by Tired Lion

 


Should of asked you, should of asked you to

Should of asked you to come clean.

Tired Lion more than delivered with their debut album Dumb Days.  They've continuously improved since arriving on the scene in 2013 and I doubt anyone would be disputing the fact they're now one of the best rock outfits in the country. And if you find someone that does dispute that, you just play them 'Cilantro' and then tell them to run away and never return, like you're Scar in The Lion King, but you're totally justified and not evil. Your guess is as good as mine when it comes to why the track is called 'Cilantro', but something about it fits. Maybe it's got something to do with a lot of people really hating coriander or cilantro or whatever you want to call it. It makes people angry and Sophie Hopes is fueling her rage on the track into that epic chorus. As a unit, Tired Lion work so well together that you'll find yourself picking up on so many little things they're doing throughout 'Cilantro' that add up to it being one of their best tracks yet. Was it the best song on Dumb Days? I don't know... maybe we'll see them show up again sometime soon. I do know though. They're showing up again. (Matt Bond)


Tired Lion are a band that make song after song that make me say "YES" in caps with each and every release. Like, it doesn't even matter what the lyrical content is, every dirty guitar and every manic beat makes me wish I was 17 and angry again, which is weird because I didn't particularly enjoy 17 anyway. Oh screw it, it can't be denied, there'll always be a part of me that relates far too well to that line "happy when I'm fucking up..." which means as long as Tired Lion keep writing about such things, I'll keep listening. (Jo Michelmore)
 

#35. I'LL NEVER WANT A BF

by Bec Sandridge

 


I'll never have a boyfriend

Just because you think I should, Just because you think I will...

Same, Bec Sandridge. Same. But enough about me and my troubles, we should be talking about the infectious sounds of Bec Sandridge's 'I'll Never Want A BF'. The timing couldn't have been better for the release of this one, given that it sends a strong message about someone accepting who they are and not taking shit from those around them anymore because of it. I don't even have to imagine, I know it was something that a lot of LGBTI people needed to hear during the same sex marriage postal vote process. I like to think there were some kids (anyone younger than me is a kid) in Australia that turned on triple J in October and heard this song being played and smiled and danced and sang along and forgot how crappy thing can be, if even for a three and a half minute period. Thank you for that, Bec Sandridge. Also, boys are the worst and you're missing out on nothing. (Matt Bond)



Damn right Bec. Who actually wants one? Like seriously, regardless of who you like in life, how much effort are BFs anyway? As much as GFs, I suspect. Enough about my life though. Bec Sandridge's sense of theatre, her ability to flip and turn and spin her voice like vocal gymnastics is enough to love, let alone her ability to to make beats and synths that make me wanna bounce, but her absolute sense of self-assurance was and is the best; especially at a time when lots of people in the country I live in needed someone to say something, anything about being ok with being themselves. And back to my original point anyway. No one want a BF. They're boring.  (Jo Michelmore) 

#34. GROW

by Mark Harding

 


I'm not the man, that I could be

I wish I'd had someone here to break it to me.

If you're adverse to feeling all of the feelings, it's probably best you avoid listening to 'Grow'. Let me tell you though, if you skip over this one you are missing out my friend. Mark Harding has crafted something so pure and honest and absolutely perfect that you can't help but be moved by it. The choral flourishes (not sure if that's the actual term) against the guitar line are a nice touch, leading into Harding's opening lines, "fly through days in seconds, things I thought I'd have done." The emotional hits keep coming from there, as Harding takes a hard look at his life and realises there's so much more he had wanted for himself. It's a position many of us would have found ourselves in over the years, especially in those after school or university when life it at its most uncertain. What are you going to do with your life? Will this make you happy? Do you follow your head or your heart? On his best track yet, Mark Harding chooses the path that allows him to grow as a person. Bravo, Mark Harding. (Matt Bond) 

There was a time a few years back when someone was promoting bands and musicians playing gigs in cathedrals and churches, because, well, it was kind of cute I guess and let's face it, because acoustics. I saw someone once in such a venue. The start of Mark Harding's 'Grow' reminded me of that gig, with those voices almost chanting at the beginning and the simple, humble lyrics seemingly at home in a place of worship. If he keeps writing and releasing songs like this one, I'll be worshipping Mark Harding's talent for a long while yet. (Jo Michelmore) 

#33. OCEANS

by Vallis Alps

 


In the desert I will carry you

 I'll carry you and I'll carry you.

Making a statement in the form of shimmering electronic pop is something Vallis Alps should do all the time if it's going to result in brilliance like 'Oceans'. Envisaged as a track about "the daily sacrifices that women make in the fight for equality," and inspired by Tahirih, a 19th century campaigner for women's rights in Iran, 'Oceans' should be celebrated just as much for the message within as it is for Parissa Tosif's heartwarming vocal tones and David Ansari's party starting beats. It feels like the summer, like you should be in the car and on your way to the beach or dancing by the pool. But there's so much more to 'Oceans' underneath the surface... just like the actual ocean and if I was a better writer I'd be making something awesome out of that revelation. Another missed opportunity for me, another mighty fine song from Vallis Alps. (Matt Bond)

#32. TWO HEARTS

by Phebe Starr

 


Our lives entangled through time

With one desire.

Phebe Starr continues to astound and amaze with her brand of larger than life and out of this world pop. In 2017, Starr released the Chronicles EP, comprised of six tracks that showcase all that she has to offer the musical world. You should already know the explosive first single, 'Feel My Love' (#17 - Top 116 Songs of 2016). Hopefully you've already fallen in love with the follow-up, 'Two Hearts'. If not, get on board. Right now. Listen and love. Because this is epic super-pop that should be dominating the Australian airwaves and then the rest of the world and then the galaxy. Written as a take on Starr's self-doubt (nope, this is not a love song folks) and the internal battles she goes through as she creates her art, 'Two Hearts' nails it in every aspect. The writing, the performance the build to the final chorus... how is this not the number one song in the country right now? Please explain. (Matt Bond)


Ohmygoodness from the very first note this makes me happy. The synths and the beats, it takes me straight back to a time when I was much shorter than I am now, sitting in the backseat of my parents car while my Dad is tapping away on the steering wheel and I am staring out the window; imagining myself on stage with a bevy of back up singers, a band all dressed in well fitting pants, with a whole lot of spotlights and pyrotechnics. I'm not sure why my band are wearing such well fitting pants, but it was my childhood dream. The fact that Phebe Starr has written a song that immediately takes me back to my dreams of filling a stadium of fans means my Dad listened to great music when I was a child, and Phebe Starr has a way of making big 80s inspired pop music filled with big dreams, big vocals and big beats. (Jo Michelmore) 

#31. LOW BLOWS

by Meg Mac

 


You see I don't like it

Don't wanna be anyone again.

I heard my neighbour recently telling his teenage daughter he had a new favourite song by "some girl named Meg Mac, you should go Spotify it" to which I heard his daughter kind of grunt, then mutter "Daaaaaad" under her breath, which kind of made me smile, because Meg Mac has really swung full circle since her first upload to JJJ's unearthed almost five years ago, and now people are 'Spotifying' her (not an actual verb, by the way, for those interested) and uninteresting teenagers are rolling their eyes about her. 'Low Blows'; the title track from her debut album, is a bluesy, poppy track that sucks you in with her always soulful vocal and spits you out with it's punchy rhythm. It also has an incredible way of making it's way into and around and around your head, which might be just what my neighbour's daughter needs. (Jo Michelmore)

                  

Top 25 - 2 April 2017

Tired Lion, Amy Shark, Gretta Ray!

1. Gretta Ray - Towers

2. Amy Shark - Weekends

3. Gorillaz - Andromeda

4. Gorillaz - We Got The Power

5. Kendrick Lamar - HUMBLE.

6. San Cisco - Hey, Did I Do You Wrong?

7. Lorde - Green Light

8. Tired Lion - Cinderella Dracula

9. Phebe Starr - They Keep Telling Me

10. Oh Wonder - Ultralife

11. Meg Mac - Low Blows

12. Emily Wurramara - Hey Love

13. Vallis Alps - East

14. Lorde - Liability

15. Gang of Youths - What Can I Do If The Fire Goes Out?

16. Ali Barter - Cigarette

17. Airling - Not A Fighter

18. Major Leagues - It Was Always You

19. Saskwatch - December Nights

20. Bleachers - Don't Take The Money

21. Babaganouj - Star

22. Lana Del Rey - Love

23. Bad Pony - Deficiency





24. London Grammar - Big Picture

25. Paces ft. Nyne - Savage

Top 116 Songs of 2016, #20 - 11

#116 - 101

#100 - 91

#90 - 81

#80 - 71

#70 - 61

#60 - 51

#50 - 41

#40 - 31

#30 - 21

#20. TENNIES

by Tkay Maidza





Let me break shit, let me drop it.

Not that I needed some sweet, sweet Tkay Maidza levels of inception to get her music in my head b-b-b-but... hearing 'Tennies' playing in the Apple Watch ad that played on YouTube before I got to 'Tennies' itself was the feelgood moment of the year. Like a proud mumma, I may have shed a dignified, single tear in celebration of Tkay Maidza's continued success. Getting into an Apple advertisement played worldwide? Achievement level unlocked. That level? Boss level. Because Tkay has been a total boss this year in the lead up to and after the release of her debut album, TKAY. Just before the album's release, 'Tennies' was dropped as a promo track and we couldn't get enough of it. We still can't get enough of it. The energy is infectious as Tkay lays out some quick-fire rhymes to politely inform you that she is the new Queen all up in here and you will bow down to her greatness. Admit it, you're bowing down right now. We are truly not worthy of this greatness. (Matt Bond) 

I did a bit of a double take when I read something about Tkay's 'Tennies' that described it as "another club banger" which is probably a reasonable description of said single, but I don't really think of Tkay as a purveyor of "club bangers", because while that's a reasonable genre in itself, it just doesn't seem to lend enough weight to the actual talent of Tkay. I think of the "club banger" as a fairly throw away sound, but I still haven't gotten over the first moment I heard Tkay's sound and there's no way I've thrown that track away, let alone this song, three years later. Also, tennies is referring to her tennis shoes, for those like myself who doubted themselves and assumed it was referring to something else the kids are talking about. I don't know what the kids are talking about. (Jo Michelmore)

#19. AGORAPHOBIA

by Tired Lion





It's not a movie, now it's night time
Those kids are itching for red wine...

I listened to this song about a thousand times when it was first released, because Tired Lion write really, really good rock songs. Their guitars are always dirty where they need to be, their drums are always pounding exactly when they need to be and that voice of Sophie's is always as perfect as it needs to be. It was listen number one thousand and one that had me hear a lyric I hadn't before, which made me draw a breath and press pause for a minute, because sometimes really, really good rock songs are also really, really good mirrors and sometimes that's a little confronting, but the best of really, really good rock songs are also equally comforting and 'Agoraphobia' is exactly, and so much more than that. (Jo Michelmore) 

Moving from Unearthed to the triple J A-list was all but guaranteed for Perth's Tired Lion after the huge success of tracks like 'I Don't Think You Like Me' and 'Suck' in 2015. No one would have held it against the band for taking some time off, but it was so good to hear two new tracks from them in 2016. 'Not My Friends' was another banging piece of alternative goodness, but 'Agoraphobia' was the Tired Lion track that I just couldn't get enough of from the day I first heard it. It's got everything we've come to know and love about their sound over the past couple of years; 90s post-grunge inspired hooks, gorgeous melodies and scream-and-shout-along choruses delivered by the formidable Sophie Hopes and snappy lines that spark the imagination. But the thing about 'Agoraphobia' is, it's not just snappy lines anymore. As the topic of discussion is mental illness, something each member of Tired Lion has dealt with in their young lives, it's no surprise there's a new level of depth here. This is the sound of a band growing from their angsty teen beginnings to something bigger and bolder. I'll even throw in that it's a maturing of their sound, but don't worry, this is still brash and loud and everything you'd want from a Tired Lion track. (Matt Bond)   

#18. FOR GOOD

by Remi ft. Sampa The Great





You're giving me the silent treatment, baby
And that's oh so cold, gorgeous.

'For Good', the first single from Remi's critically acclaimed second LP Divas and Demons, brought a much needed dose of funk to Australia's hip hop scene. It brought the mega talent that is Sampa The Great along for the ride too and hearing Sampa alongside MC Remi Kolawole made for one of the brightest collaborations of the whole year. At least in terms of music and performance, both of which are faultless and ready made to make you get your groove on. While the story might not have the sunny disposition to match, at least we get a refreshing take on a dude admitting he's been a bit of a dick to a lovely lady undeserving of such treatment. Now she's gone and she's gone for good and he's left alone with his weed and Nintendo and sadness. I'm going with this being a work of fiction, because Remi doesn't seem like a jerk at all. He's like the Drake of Australian hip hop. Just, you know, awesome. (Matt Bond)  

#17. FEEL MY LOVE

by Phebe Starr





Please be kind
You know I love you, but my heart is blind.

One should have assumed that 'Feel My Love' was going to be one of the most perfect pop songs of the year, being that it is performed by someone who I have always thought has the most perfect pop name I could possibly imagine. If I was a singer, I'd have given up this Jo business and renamed my myself Phebe Starr a long time ago. Beside my slightly weird obsession with Phebe's name, 'Feel My Love' was definitely one of the highlights of pop music this year; all bounce, all build, all beautiful, it's one of the ones that would make that incredible scene of summer and sun and smiles when they make the film of my life. They will be making that sometime, and if I have my way, my character will be called Phebe. Phebe Starr. (Jo Michelmore)

If you are not dancing by the time the second verse hits, in whatever way it is that you choose to dance, then I am afraid to inform you that you are dead inside and I am sorry for how the world has beaten you down. Because 'Feel My Love' is epic-mega-out of this world-pop that will make you want to move, to shout, to live, to love. Phebe Starr, you continue to astound and amaze with the absolute gems that you're releasing. I probably say this with each new track, but this truly is your finest work to date. It makes you feel like anything is possible because it is so warm and so full of hope. In a perfect world this would have been a number one hit everywhere, but hey, this ain't no perfect world. I can say though that my world feels a little bit more perfect with this song in it. And you know, if you are feeling a little dead inside you really should listen to this a couple of times. It's probably just the cure you're looking for. It really is that good. (Matt Bond) 

#16. ON HOLD

by The xx





My young heart, chose to believe
We were destined.

Urgh, how exactly does someone get this talented? Like, I'm jealous. Why even hide that fact. I'm super jealous of The xx and how they can make music that speaks every freaking language to you, even ones you didn't know you know, but you know them and it's all because of The xx's music. And they keep getting better. How is life fair? Anyway... Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim's chemistry remains out of control and their vocal performances are coming from a much more confident place. Dare I say it sounds like The xx might be having a bit of fun these days? 'On Hold' certainly makes it sound like there's a smile lurking behind the totally devo (this means sad, not Devo the band) words that are so well written without having to say much of anything and again I'm super jealous of this group's talent. But I'm also super in love with everything they do and can't wait to hear their third album, I See You when it comes out next month. (Matt Bond)  

I don't want to have to say spoiler alert, but this could be the newest song on our long long countdown, which means that new track Little Mix are releasing tomorrow won't be making our top 10, sorry guys. (Little Mix are not making our countdown. Please don't be disappointed.) Is this the cutest I've heard The xx? Maybe, maybe not, but either way there's something more poppy about this track than I'm probably used to from Jamie, Romy and Oliver and that's not a bad thing, it's a super good thing. Also, it's been far too long since I've pushed someone around a carpark in a shopping trolley. And one more thing. When did that Oliver character get so cute? And where did he get that shirt? I think I love it. And him. And them. (Jo Michelmore)

#15. BURN THE WITCH

by Radiohead





This is a roundup
This is a low flying panic attack. 

I'm honestly going to say there was not another song this year that had me as equally excited as I was nervous to hear it. It took a few minutes to prepare myself for what was to come before I hit play, because Radiohead and I have been through a lot. We've had a tumultuous relationship, but we've always agreed we love each other in the end. So I took a deep breath and I hit that little sideways triangle and those urgent strings came leaping out of my headphones and the familiar goosebumps of Radiohead started at my spine and worked their way around and not only did we agree we love each other, but we adored each other and everything about the world was absolutely perfect. And still is. (Jo Michelmore)

#14. DIGGIN'

by Ngaiire





But here you found me
With a shovel in my hand...

To avoid wanting to write about this throughout the entire paragraph, I'm going to get it out of the way early so we can all move on with our lives. I am totally digging this track. Okay, done, moving right along. Now we can focus all of our time and energy on expressing all of the love we have for the INCREDIBLE music Ngaiire put out over the past twelve months. Starting with 'Diggin' the second song to be lifted from her sophomore album, Blastoma. It was a most suitable follow up to the 2015 Hottest 100 jam, 'Once', turning it up a notch in terms of the party starting stakes, while sacrificing nothing in terms of quality and uniqueness in the Australian music landscape. The reigning Empress of Neo-Soul was more glam than ever throughout 'Diggin', running vocal lines to die for alongside mighty fine electronic beats. Genre bending and defying expectations are nothing new for Ngaiire, but 'Diggin' was on a whole new level to what's come before. And this wasn't even our favourite release from Ngaiire in 2016. Ya dig? Sorry, had to use that one too. (Matt Bond) 

#13. NEVER BE LIKE YOU

by Flume ft. Kai





Please just look me in my face
Tell me everything's okay. 

The kids these days, they say things like realness and all the feels and there's probably someone somewhere that's creating a meme right this very minute that means exactly those things but in a different way, but all they need to do is listen to some Flume and words and memes don't matter. This was one of those creepy songs that snuck up on me and slapped me in the face, having heard it about a bazillion times without too much thought until one day it just it me - boom, and suddenly I'm at work humming something about never being like you to my boss. (Hi boss! Jokes! I love you etc).  It was only a few days I may have whispered something to Matt under my breath about possibly liking that Flume song that every one goddamn likes and now here we are at number 13, which means he liked it too. Boom. (Jo Michelmore) 

That Flume fella's done alright for himself, hasn't he now? He scored his first #1 song in Australia with 'Never Be Like You', which also took him to the top 20 of the US Billboard Hot 100. The monster hit has also scored young Harley Edward Streten his first Grammy nod for Best Dance Recording, while parent-album Skin took took out Album of the Year at the ARIA Awards. Will 'Never Be Like You' go all the way in the upcoming Hottest 100? It would definitely bring a smile to many dials on Australia Day if that were to happen. Everyone loved 'Never Be Like You' and there's a simple explanation... it's really fucking good. Flume was more than deserving of all the success that's come his way over the past 12 months, delivering this killer jam with Canadian singer Kai that will be remembered for a long time to come. (Matt Bond) 

#12. ADORE

by Amy Shark





Now go when you're ready
My head's getting heavy pressed against your arm.

I wish life always felt like it does when you're listening to Amy Shark's 'Adore'. Full of that happiness that only comes with the initial buzz in your head and your heart, the result of a new romance where anything and everything seems possible. It's like you're floating in your own personal happy place. Unfortunately there's so many other things that seem to get in the way. Life stuff, good and bad. Work, commitments, that darn requirement to sleep. When everything else is getting the way and you've got too many thoughts running through that brain that always wants to ruin everything with its thinking, just put on 'Adore' and disappear to that happy place. Life can't always be like that, but for three minutes and twenty seconds, Amy Shark can take you there. Given that the song has raised her profile significantly since it was released, it seems like the whole world is going to be taken to happy places by Amy Shark very soon. (Matt Bond)  

Everyone has been there and if you haven't, then I'm pretty jealous of your life. They are the subject of so much art, writing and music, it's hard to imagine what life would be like without them. Those times when there's nothing more pure and sweet than the desperation of wanting, the need to be loved and the true beauty in the agony of loneliness. Without big vocals, with simple words and some raw and uncomplicated keys and guitars, Amy Shark has captured the melancholy in obsession and the hopelessness of passion in such a effortless but powerful way. And now thinking about it, if you haven't felt any of these things, maybe I'm not jealous at all, because there's no feeling more intense and more alive than that of adoring...and needing to be adored. (Jo Michelmore)

#11. BEST OF YOU

by Big Smoke 





We're peeling back the blue skies
They got nothing on your blue eyes.

I really want to write about this song without mentioning how very bittersweet it is. I really want to write about the sense of roadtrip that it begs me to take, without wondering what could have been. I really want to write about those keys and that comforting voice that has me swaying with every listen, making me wish I was in a saloon, drinking a gin or a whiskey, or both, without wishing I could hear more. I really want to write about the absolute richness of this sound and the saturation of emotion without knowing where some of that might have come from. I really want to write all of those things without thoughts of what was or what could have been and I really want the members of Big Smoke to know they did good. While I can't imagine the things they have been through this year, I'm so glad they gave us all they could, because in songs like this, I hope they truly know thoughts of their friend and bandmate Adrian Slattery will be hanging about for a long time and with songs as gorgeous as this, he's never going to be forgotten. (Jo Michelmore)