Best of 2013 pt.1

Well with 2013 drawing to a close, the time has come to do the ultimate round up of music from that past year. It has been quite a year, with dramatic comebacks from past legends and new talent bursting onto the scene. Here you will find 100 of the best songs from the past twelve months, split into two separate posts. Having them all in one go might be a bit much. As usual there is an eclectic range of artists selected, but that’s something that reflects my personal taste in music. Everything from Pop to Hard Rock, Jazz to Metal, Indie to singer songwriters, there's something to cover pretty much every taste. These are all personal choices and are not selected in any particular order.

Enjoy J

Airborne Toxic Event- Timeless: The third album from LA indie band Airborne Toxic Event sees them pick up where their last album left off. ‘Timeless’ was the first single from the album and it shows a band just doing what they do best. Their blend of orchestral indie rock coupled with brilliant song writing makes for a great combination. A band that would fit seamlessly into majority of people’s music tastes.

 

Airbourne- Live It Up: For those of you who know Airbourne, you know exactly what you’re going to get. And with their new release, their third album ‘Black Dog Barking’, they didn’t disappoint. They may be seen as an AC/DC for the 21^st Century, but they are not a gimmick or joke band. They play hard rocking music with brutal riffs that are best enjoyed turned up to 11. Give ‘Live It Up’ a listen and you’ll see what I mean.

 

Alter Bridge- Addicted to Pain: Killer riff and huge chorus from the American rockers who returned with their 4^th studio album. A song that showcases the talents of a band who are well on the way to superstardom.

 

Arcade Fire- Reflektor: Canadian indie giants returned this year with their fourth studio album ‘Reflektor’. It was released to critical acclaim, with the album reaching number one in seven countries including Canada, US and the UK. Arcade Fire are one of the biggest bands around at the moment, and this is reflected in their booking as one of the headliners at the 2014 Glastonbury festivals for the first time. It appears next year could be an even bigger year for the band.

 

Arctic Monkeys- Do I Wanna Know?: One of the biggest bands of their generation, Artic Monkeys returned this year with another mammoth album. ‘AM’ sees the Sheffield band with a more mature sound but shows exactly why they were chosen to headline Glastonbury earlier on the year. A fantastic song from a band that is on its way to legendary status.

 

Avenged Sevenfold- Hail to the King: Arguably the biggest hard rock act of the 21^st Century so far, Avenged Sevenfold just keep getting bigger. ‘Hail to the King’, the sixth album from the band, hit the number spot in the UK charts, a huge success considering the genre. Next year sees the band headline at Download Festival at Donington Park; further proof that the band is at the top of their game.

 

Babyshambles- Nothing Comes to Nothing: Pete Doherty made a return to music this year with his Libertines side project’s third album, and their first since 2007. It may have taken a while, but upon listening to this song it was worth the wait as it has all the typical Doherty class that made both Babyshambles and The Libertines so popular.

 

Bastille- Things We Lost in the Fire: You could honestly have put any one of a number of songs on this list from Bastille. 2013 really has been a big breakthrough year for the band with the release of their debut, numerous festival appearances and their own sold out UK tour. I plumped for this however as its personal favourite of theirs that I’ve heard on the radio. A very good song that shows why Bastille have proved to be so popular.

 

Beware of Darkness- Howl: There are always articles claiming that guitar music is on the decline and rock music is on the way out. I’ve always maintained that that is a load of rubbish, and with new bands such as Beware of Darkness cropping up, it suggests that I’m right. Playing their own brand of blues infused classic rock, the Californian trio are a name to keep an eye out for in the future.

 

Black Sabbath-God Is Dead?: Heavy Metal godfathers made their return with their first album as the original line-up for over 30 years. Album went straight to number one, showing the younger generations they’ve influenced how it’s done.

 

Biffy Clyro- Black Chandelier: Released back in January, ‘Black Chandelier’ was the first single off Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro’s sixth studio album ‘Opposites’. It’s a very good song and has Biffy’s signature sound running throughout. Having headlined Reading and Leeds festivals earlier in the year, as well their own sell out UK tour, 2013 has been a good year for the band. With an album as strong as ‘Opposites’, they can only get better as well.

 

Biting Elbows- Bad Motherfucker: Not so much about the song this, but about the video. One of the most entertaining music videos for years. The thumbnail is misleading, it's literally only 5 seconds worth of the video, if that.

 

Bon Jovi- Because We Can: Typically big and bold rock anthem from legendary New Jersey rock legends Bon Jovi saw the band return with their twelfth studio album. The album went straight to number one in the US charts, making it their third album in a row to do so, and their fifth in total. ‘Because We Can’ was a bit of a marmite song with critics, but I really like it. It’s a solid song, with a good sing along chorus and hook which means you won’t forget it in a hurry.

 

Brian May and Kerry Ellis- Kissing Me Song: A fun little song this, it sees the legendary Queen Guitarist team up once again with singer Kerry Ellis. The two have worked together on projects before, with Ellis also appearing in the Queen musical ‘We Will Rock You’. It’s a fun show tune this and one that will put a smile on your face.

 

Bruce Springsteen- High Hopes: A re -recording of an old Springsteen song, the song was originally released on his 1996 Blood Brothers EP. However Springsteen, along with Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello have re-visited the song as well other previously unreleased material . It will appear next on an album with the same name and shows that the New Jersey legend has no plans to slow down after his mega successful ‘Wrecking Ball’ tour.

 

Caro Emerald- Liquid Lunch: Dutch Jazz/Pop singer Caro Emerald returned this year with her follow up to her hugely successful debut album. This proved to be equally successful with the album going straight to number one in the UK, with Emerald herself playing festivals across Europe. She even topped it all off by playing the Royal Variety Performance in London recently.

 

Chvrches- The Mother We Share: Chvrches’ debut album ‘The Bones of What You Believe’ was one of the most hotly anticipated releases of the year, and it didn’t disappoint. Their brand of synthpop is moody and atmospheric with great hooks and offers something different to the other similar bands around at the moment. Their hit single ‘The Mother We Share’ is my personal favourite of theirs, and one you should give a listen to if you aren’t familiar with the band.

 

Crashdiet- Cocaine Cowboys: You could be forgiven for thinking the Scandinavian rock scene is stuck in the 80s as hair metal is very much alive and well. Not that that is a bad thing. ‘Cocaine Cowboys’ is a pure hair metal anthem; hard, dirty and sleazy, you can feel the spirit of the Sunset Strip running through its veins. Eat your heart out Motley Crue.

 

Daft Punk- Get Lucky: French electronic duo Daft Punk made a triumphant return with their smash hit single ‘Get Lucky’. A song you couldn’t get away from, it was one of the biggest selling singles of the year.

 

David Bowie- The Stars (Are Out Tonight): The most unexpected of returns by one of the legends of British music. The album, recorded in secret, went straight to number one and proved to any doubters that Bowie has still got immense talent.

 

Deap Vally- Baby I Call Hell: American rock chick duo Lindsey Troy and Julie Edwards, aka Deap Vally, made their entrance onto the rock scene with a fantastic debut album. Full of dirty, bluesy riffs and aggressive yet captivating vocals, it is one of my favourite albums of the year.

 

Editors- A Ton of Love: The fourth studio from Birmingham indie band Editors sees the band wear their influences on their sleeve with this 80s infused effort. That’s not to say they are ripping anyone off, they are simply using their influences to enhance their sound. Have to say it works wonders. ‘A Ton of Love’ is a fantastic song, and one of their strongest.

 

Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros- Home: Ok, so this is a song that found its way back into the charts after originally being released back in 2010. I’m glad it did though as it would have passed me by otherwise. It’s a fantastic song and it totally deserves the airplay it got on the radio. A very catchy folk/rock song that everyone will fall in love with.

 

Eliza Doolittle- Big When I Was Little: Time has flown since Eliza Doolittle released her debut album, full of fun sing along pop songs. Well she’s back and continues in exactly the same vein. ‘Big When I Was Little’ has exactly the same fun and sing along elements that we enjoyed in her debut. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

 

Ellie Goulding- Burn: Ellie Goulding’s first UK number one proved to be a huge hit with it being one of those songs you couldn’t get away from on the radio. It’s a very good song and showcases her talent as one of the best British pop singers around.

 

Elton John- Home Again: “It’s the most piano orientated record I’ve ever made and it’s a very simple album and I don’t really see the point of making a record if you try and make it better. I’ve made a lot of records and this is one of my favourites. It’s a very relaxed album and I’m very happy with it.” If Elton John says it’s one of his best albums, who am I to argue?

(Quote taken from interview on the BBCs Graham Norton show)

 

Fleetwood Mac- Sad Angel: Released without any promotion and only in digital format, Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Extended Play’ almost flew under the radar. However, as it was Fleetwood Mac with their first new material for a decade, it didn’t. ‘Sad Angel’ is the sound of band at their best, no mean feat given the long list of classic songs to their name. Give it a listen though, and you will be thinking along the same lines.

 

Frank Turner-Four Simple Words: “Somebody once told me that music with guitars, was going out of fashion and I had to laugh. This shit was fashionable when I fell in love. If the hipsters move on, why should I give a fuck?” Amen to that.

 

Franz Ferdinand- Right Action: 2013 saw the return of Scottish Indie rockers Franz Ferdinand for their first album in four years. With their distinctive sound in full flow, it’s shows a band doing exactly what they do best; making fun, catchy indie rock that instantly gets stuck in your head.

 

Gabriella Cilmi- Sweeter In History: Australian singer songwriter returned this year with her new album ‘The Sting’. Moving back to a sound more akin to her debut album, Cilmi is feels happier now that she has more control over the music she is making. Still only 22, she has a very mature sound to her music, but it suits her perfectly. I’m looking forward to catching her live on her UK tour next year.

 

Gary Barlow- Let Me Go: While Take That have made a hugely successful return to the music scene in recent years, Gary Barlow’s solo career has taken a back seat. Well that was until this year when he released his first solo material in 14 years. ‘Let Me Go’ was the first single from the album and it is a cracking track, showcasing Barlow’s talent as both a songwriter and performer. With Take That due to record a new album next year, it could be some time before we hear another Barlow solo project.

 

George Ezra- Budapest: There may be a strong pool of male singer/songwriters around at the moment, but that hasn’t stopped 19 year old Bristolian George Erza form throwing his hat into the ring. With the likes of Ben Howard, Ed Sheeran and Newton Faulkner around, it would have to take something special for a new artist to get noticed. However one listen of ‘Budapest’ should be enough to win you over. Erza has a mature voice beyond his years and the catchy guitar hook makes ‘Budapest’ a very nice song to listen to. A name to look out next year as you will be hearing a lot more about him.

 

Haim- The Wire: Haim were tipped to have a big year in 2013, and boy did they deliver. The three sisters from LA played numerous festivals, including Glastonbury, to huge acclaim even before their album went straight to number one upon release in September here in the UK. Their brand of soft rock has proved to be incredibly popular and with a sold out UK tour early next year, there’s still plenty to look forward to from the girls.

 

Halestorm- Dissident Aggressor: Philadelphia rock quartet followed up last year’s brilliant ‘The Strange Case Of…’ album with their second covers EP ‘ReAnimate 2.0’.  Featuring covers of Fleetwood Mac, AC/DC, Daft Punk, Pat Betanar and Marilyn Manson, it’s their cover of Judas Priest’s ‘Dissident Aggressor’ that really stands out. A fantastic and brave choice as Rob Halford is not an easy man to try and match vocally. Lzzy Hale makes it sound easy.

 

Hardcore Superstar- One More Minute: One of the best rock songs of the year by Swedish hard rock band Hardcore Superstar. A blend of Motley Crue and Def Leppard but with a 21^st Century twist, it has a fantastic riff and a chorus you can’t help but sing out at the top of your voice. Definitely one to break the air guitar out to.

 

Hey! Hello !– Swimwear: If you like fun filled pop rock then look further than Hey! Hello!, with their self-titled debut album. Comprising of multi project man Ginger Wildheart and American singer Victoria Liedtke they joined forces to make this little gem after the two worked together on Ginger’s previous solo project. They definitely make a good team and I’m very much looking forward to seeing them open for The Wildhearts (Gingers’ main band) in April next year.

 

Houndmouth- Penitentiary: Probably one the least known names on this list, but one that everyone should listen to. It’s hard to pigeon hole the band, but calling it laid back country infused rock wouldn’t be far wrong. Good song writing with a strong harmony also make Houndmouth very easy to listen to. Check ‘em out; I know you’ll like them.

 

Icon for Hire- Sugar and Spice: Illinois quartet Icon for Hire made a brave decision with their follow up to their 2011 debut. Their self-titled second album is more experimental but it they have pulled it off brilliantly. ‘Sugar and Spice’ is my favourite track off the album. It’s blend of hip hop and rock works fantastically well with Ariel Bloomers’ fast paced lyrics and the catchy hook and chorus ensuring that the song rattles round your head right from the first listen.

 

Icona Pop- I Love It: Sweden doesn’t just do sleazy rock music, they also make bloody good pop records as well. Exhibit one, Icona Pop and their huge single ‘I Love It’. In fact it was already a big hit round the world last year and only made onto the shores of the UK in the summer where it went down an absolute storm. Pardon the pun, but I love it.

 

Imagine Dragons- It’s Time: The Las Vegas group really burst onto the scene this year with their debut album, with some big selling singles. ‘Radioactive’ has been a song you have heard all year, while ‘On Top of the World’ has been a popular hit recently. However my personal favourite has been ‘It’s Time’. I love it and think it’s one of the best indie songs of recent times. Definitely a band that is going to go far.

 

Jake Bugg- Broken: There was plenty of music to choose from from Jake Bugg this year, with singles from both his debut and follow up albums hitting the charts. I have gone with my favourite of his, and it’s the re-recorded version of the beautiful song ‘Broken’ with RHCP drummer Chad Smith and produced by Rick Rubin. Wonderful song by a wonderful talent.

 

James Blunt- Bonfire Heart: So the rumours that James Blunt had retired from music turned out to be false after all (fingers crossed the ones about Justin Bieber aren’t false), and he has returned better than ever. ‘Bonfire Heart’ is classic James Blunt and with his catchy acoustic pop, he knows how to write a good song.

 

Keane- Higher Than the Sun: A new single release to coincide with their Greatest Hits compilation, ‘Higher Than the Sun’ will be last new material from the band after they announced they will be taking a break from music. It’s a shame, but this song is typical Keane, with their signature sound running throughout. Hopefully they will be back with fully recharged batteries in the not too distant future.

 

Kelly Clarkson- Underneath the Tree: Taken from her recently released 6^th album ‘Wrapped in Red’, ‘Underneath the Tree’ is a shoe in for being one of the best Christmas songs of the year. ‘Wrapped in Red’ is Clarkson’s first attempt at a Christmas themed album and it sounds fantastic.  It’s very festive and puts you right in the Christmas mood.

 

Kodaline- All I Want: This may have featured on last year’s list, but it has a new video and I love this song , so the re-release is here. The original video proved to be immensely popular with over 4 million hits on YouTube, and the new video features the same characters based around a different storyline. I won’t spoil it for you, but it’s a wonderful video which the song fits perfectly to.

 

Kings of Leon- Supersoaker: ‘Supersoaker’ sees Nashville band Kings of Leon return in fine form. Having received unwarranted criticism from their last two albums, the band developed a more mature sound for the new record, something which is well evidenced here. It is a class track and one that will go down as one of their best. They are a quality band and are showing themselves as continually one of the best in the business.

 

KT Tunstall- Feel It All: The fourth studio album from Scottish singer songwriter KT Tunstall sees her return to a sound that helped make her debut a huge success. An album split into two halves, it was recorded on tape, “the old fashioned way”, in two sessions in Texas. ‘Feel It All’ is my favourite song from the album and shows Tunstall’s talent as a songwriter.

 

Lana Del Rey- Bel Air: Appearing on her ‘Paradise’ EP, ‘Bel Air’ has a sound and feeling that we’ve come to expect from Lana Del Rey. Put simply, if you’re a fan, there’s a very good chance you’ll like this. Very good song.

 

Lily Allen- Somewhere Only We Know: Lily Allen made her return to music with her wonderful cover of Keane’s ‘Somewhere Only We Know’. Giving the song the now traditional John Lewis treatment, it is more stripped back than the original but it helps make the song sound more festive and suits her voice and singing style. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first heard she had covered it, but I was very impressed.

 

Lissie- Sleepwalking: American folk/rock songstress Lissie made a return this year with her second album ‘Back to Forever’, and if anything, it’s even better than her last album. I really liked the previous singles ‘Shameless’ and ‘Further Away (Romance Police)’, but  as soon as I heard ‘Sleepwalking’ on the radio, it became one of my favourite songs of the year. Looking forward to seeing her live on her UK tour next spring.

Well there you have it, the first instalment of my favourite songs of the year. I hope you enjoyed it and I will be back around the new year with part 2. Until then have a great Christmas and I will see you again soon.