I struggle to accept that 2017 is nearly over. But I can’t argue with the calendar. As I struggle to complete my jobs for Christmas, I was distracted by my self-imposed seasonal tradition of selecting my favourite songs of the year.
This is largely a record for myself, and I really enjoy looking back at previous years (see 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012). However, if you have a few minutes spare, do take a listen and hopefully there is something that pleases. The songs can also be listened to on this YouTube playlist (though annoyingly not Future Islands).
Enjoy!
Shadows - Future Islands
The best duet of the year. Debbie Harry’s voice is so strong and complements Samuel T Herring perfectly. I’m not a fan of everything Future Islands have done, but this is a great song. The performance is full of energy and power.
A Little Uncanny - Conor Oberst
This is possibly my most listened to song of 2017. A relatively simple song but beautifully executed with acerbic lyrics. I feel his pain when he sings “I miss poor Christopher Hitchens, I miss Oliver Sachs, I miss poor Robin Williams, I miss Sylvia Plath”.
Nothing, Not Nearly - Laura Marling
Laura Marling features in almost every year’s review and I could have had multiple entries. Sempa Femina is a brilliant album. I adore the pace of this song. The descending chord progression in the chorus gets me every time.
Oh Baby - LCD Soundsystem
This is the first song on the new album and it’s the best one. Relatively slow and takes a long time to build, but that’s the genius - and a statement of the album which mocks the unnecessary rules of popular music. Despite the intelligent construct of the song, the thing that comes through for me is the desperation and pain in the vocals. Love it.
New York - St Vincent
It is often easy to get distracted by St Vincent’s style and artistic influence. But this song allows her songwriting genius to take centre stage. Whilst the video is visually impactful, again I feel it detracts from a simple and excellently written song. For those of us who are diaspora from a major city, there is always someone we think of when she sings: “You’re the only mother fucker in the city who can handle me”
Trouble - Girl Ray
A new band for 2017, this has the classic hallmarks of a favourite. Simple guitar chord progression, tight performance, effortless vocals. A nice fresh approach.
Spent The Day In Bed - Morrissey
I’m not a fan of putting “popular” artists on here (I can imagine Morrissey spitting that line back at me), but this song needs to be recognised as an instant classic. The lyrics have all the power of Morrissey, but a refreshingly uplifting message urging everyone to spend the day in bed. “There’s nothing wrong with being good to yourself" Never have I been so tempted to take a duvet day...
Take Me Home - Public Service Broadcasting
Every Valley was my favourite album of 2017. A very well executed album with incredible samples and storytelling. I found myself humbled by the sleeve notes which include numbers of people killed in mining accidents. The final song is sung by a choir and sends shivers down my spine every time. This is a responsible history lesson coated in stunning musicianship.
As The World Caves In - Matt Maltese
An epic, sweeping song that makes you consider our small place in the world. At it’s heart is a sweet message (though in the context of a nuclear apocalypse!). A mature offering from a new artist
We A Famly - Flaming Lips
Yes, this song has truckloads of weirdness and Miley Cyrus as Wayne Coyne’s surprising muse, but this is such a lovely song. Flaming Lips are a band who have a habit of making songs that make me emotional.
Dreams Tonite - Alvvays
My favourite song of 2017. A great pop song. Dreamy, catchy, impactful, perfect. It’s that simple. The only song that I’ve listened to on loop. I hope you do the same.
Wasn't that fun?!
Wasn't that fun?!
