I decided ten songs was not enough so here are ten more songs that I think represent the best 2010 had to offer...
Metric "Black Sheep" After releasing my favorite album of 2009, Metric returned with a couple soundtrack songs in 2010. "Eclipse (All Yours)" from Twilight and this song from the Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. "Black Sheep" shows my favorite band at their best. It's like two songs seamlessly melded into one: the driving, heavy verses coupled with that soaring chorus. Emily Haines voice is captivating.
Woodpigeon "Enchantee Janvier" This is a grossly overlooked and underappreciated group who I featured on my 'best of' list last year as well. I absolutely love Mark Andrew Hamilton's voice. Glorious female harmony and lovely instrumentation. This song is a perfect slice of indie-pop.
Honorable Mention: "Woodpigeon vs. Eagleowl (Strength In Numbers)" "Empty-Hall Sing-Along" "My Denial In Argyle"
Tapes 'n Tapes "Freak Out" I've known these fellas since they first got together and released their debut EP back in 2004 and it's so great to hear new music from them! This lead track from their new album being released in just a few days harkens back to the spirit of their breakthrough LP The Loon. Incredible hook here.
Honorable Mention: "Badaboom" "Nightfall"
Beach House "Walk In The Park" This whole record is full of lovely, haunting pop songs that landed the album on just about every critics Top 10 list for the year. This moody yet engaging track stands out as one my favorites from the CD.
Honorable Mention: "Better Times"
Yeasayer "O.N.E." There isn't much else on this record that sounds anything like this song. The lead singer's voice on this track is sorta like the second coming of Boy George, haha (that's really selling it, eh?). Upbeat instrumentation set to melancholy lyrics. And the song has a whole second act that, when mixed with the first part at the end, raises it to a whole other level. Plus check out those ladies the first time they dance in the video. I laugh every time. Not sure I'm supposed to, but I do.
The Futureheads "Heartbeat Song" This song had me hooked from the first listen. I was singing the chorus for hours afterward. Wickedly catchy indie rock. What's not to love? Well, maybe the video, haha. But the song? The definition of awesomeness :)
Katy Perry "Teenage Dream" Every year there is a pop song that permeates even the reaches of people who are, shall we say, a little finicky when it comes to their music. There is no denying the hook. No denying just how damn catchy it is. And everyone falls under it's spell. Last year is was "Party In The USA" (which is really saying something when you can overcome Miley Cyrus). This year, for me anyway (and others, I believe, as it was mentioned by the readers of Pitchfork) it was "Teenage Dream."
Heck, I also enjoyed the Glee version! Wicked background harmony.
Erik Hassle "If It Takes All Night" I posted this song not too long ago on my blog but it gets a year-end mention too :)
Bikini "American Mourning" Dance music doesn't get any better than this. The beat is hypnotic. It's just plain awesome.
Honorable Mention: "A Cheerlaeder" "Palm-Aire"
Jeremy Messersmith "Organ Donor" A Minneapolis musician who created a morbid yet gorgeous album of 60's influenced pop. The whole record is wonderful. And check out the cool video for this one :) Honorable Mention: "Lazy Bones" "Violet!" "Knots" "A Girl, A Boy, And A Graveyard"
