Photo courtesy of the BBCDan Croll – “From Nowhere” (Baarsden Remix)
A stunningly atmospheric song that was used in the trailer for GTA V’s next-gen reveal at E3, this song manages to have relatively heart-felt lyrics, a soft electronic vibe and a good dancey chorus section as well. I think this could do well in the charts with a little more exposure.
Porter Robinson – “Lionhearted”
A lot has been made of the fact that Porter Robinson’s new album will break the EDM mould and create something unique, and although this is perhaps the most similar song to what you’d expect from modern dance music it also has a traditional Porter vibe that I’ve missed from his latest tracks. I can’t wait to hear Worlds when it releases in mid-August.
The 1975 – “Chocolate”
I don’t really like The 1975, to be honest, but I rediscovered this song recently. It’s maybe the only one of theirs that I’ve heard where all the elements of the band sort of coalesce into a song that sounds really good. It’s got a really simple rhythm behind it, as well as lyrics that sound good despite not meaning very much, but there’s a certain feel about it that makes it a good listen. It’s modern indie music at its poppy best.
Disclosure – “When a Fire Starts to Burn”
Again, I may be a late-comer to this song but what a good one it is! Disclosure’s signature progressive bass is in force here with a rhythmic speech by American motivational speaker Eric Thomas going over the top providing the hook that catches in your ear. It’s clear to see through this song why they are the act that have launched a new age of music in the charts this year, with no-one quite pulling off the same charm.
The Clash – “The Magnificent Seven”
A jukebox regular over the last month at my beloved local, The Mallard: “The Magnificent Seven” is very unlike other traditional rock songs by The Clash. It was written while the band were playing in New York, as they discovered the hip-hop scene shortly after its birth and tried to emulate it. It’s nonsensical, it’s a bit overwrought, but it’s got that Clash swagger to it that keeps you interested until the song finishes.