Róisín Murphy - Ramalama (Bang Bang)

Artist: Róisín Murphy Track: Ramalama (Bang Bang) Album: Ruby Blue Year: 2005
This right here is my new favorite Halloween song. Seriously. I picture zombies doing this weird jerky dance to the drumbeat...or maybe that's because I was introduced to this song through a fan made music video with zombies in it. Whatever.
I must warn you though, the first few seconds of a shrill violin may put you off, but keep listening! The "ramalama bang bang" part is my favorite. It took a while to grow on me and now I'm in love with her entrancing voice, the quirky drumbeat, and the background vocals.
Happy Halloween!
Click for lyrics, videos, & links!

The Neighbourhood - Sweater Weather

Artist: The Neighbourhood

Track: Sweater Weather

Album: I'm Sorry...

Year: 2012

I JUST found this song and I already love it enough to feature it today. I love the summery, California rock tones over hip-hop-ish beats. It just has this great vibe that makes you want to sway back and forth and snap your fingers, but nod your head and bounce around at the same time. 

I love the lyrics to the song as well. They're tender and sensual and make you feel warm. My favorites are "So let me hold both your hands in the holes of my sweater" and "No shirt. No blouse. Just us."

Click for lyrics, music video & links!

The Belle Brigade - Where Not To Look For Freedom

Artist: The Belle Brigade

Track: Where Not To Look For Freedom

Album: The Belle Brigade

Year: 2011

This song's infectious energy makes me want to spin around with my arms above my head, singing at the top of my lungs. The Belle Brigade is a brother/sister duo whose voices match perfectly to deliver a great folk rock track with what I think sounds like a dash of country. I also love the lyrics. Literally I think it's about finding freedom on the road, but I kind of take from it a message of finding the freedom to be yourself. 

Click for lyrics, music video & links!

Oh Land - Sun Of A Gun

Artist: Oh Land

Track: Sun Of A  Gun

Album: Oh Land

Year: 2011

After a bad injury ended her ballet dancing career, Oh Land turned to music and, boy, do I love it. I had the hardest time picking a song off this album to feature today since I love so many of them.

"Sun Of A Gun" is just a delicious mix of contrasting sounds. Sweet-sounding voice against mysterious vocal percussion. Finger snaps versus synthetic notes. Crisp verses leading into a smooth bridge. It leads to very quirky dancing because you can't decide which element you want to follow.

Make sure to look into the rest of her album. It's full of more delightful surprises. My other favorites are "White Nights" and "Rainbow".

Click for lyrics, music video, & links! 

Fitz And The Tantrums - MoneyGrabber

Artist: Fitz And The Tantrums

Track: MoneyGrabber

Album: Pinkin' Up The Piecces

Year: 2010

This group is a nice refreshing trip back to the soul sounds of Motown. I was hooked on "MoneyGrabber" the first time I heard it. Lovin' the organ, sax, and hand claps that make you just tap your foot. Lead vocalist and band-leader, Michael Fitzpatrick and R&B singer, Noelle Scaggs, bring a fresh, genuine energy to their music. 

I can't wait to hear more from them!

Click for lyrics, music video, & links!

Bitter:Sweet - The Mating Game

Artist: Bitter:Sweet

Track: The Mating Game

Album: The Mating Game

Year: 2006

This track is pure sex for my eardrums. It's sultry and sophisticated and sounds like it belongs in some sort of classy spy movie like Bond. Catchy beats, provocative vocals, and electronic notes that sounds oddly like sci-fi ray guns but, hey! It works some how.

Click for lyrics, music video, & links!

City And Colour - Fragile Bird

Artist: City And Colour

Track: Fragile Bird

Album: Little Hell

Year: 2011

I have a bunch of music by City And Colour off of their first two albums and all of it was very mellow & acoustic. "Fragile Bird" has got more of an alternative rock feel, but I quite like it. 

I first heard this song on a radio station in Quebec City in Canada. I loved that radio station because they gave me a little information about "Fragile Bird" before playing the song, making it mean so much more to me. So, I'm going to play that part for you now! 

City and Colour is the recording alias of Dallas Green (he created the alias based on his name...do you see it?). The song "Fragile Bird" was written about his wife who suffers from night terrors. Knowning that, if you listen to the lyrics of the song, especially the chorus, you can feel Green's desperate helplessness when his wife goes through these every nights. I can feel it as I listen to the song. 

Click for lyrics, music video, & links!

Pentatonix - Aha!

Artist: Pentatonix
(Original Artist: Imogen Heap)

Track: Aha!

Album: Pentatonix Volume 1

Year: 2012

I. LOVE. PENTATONIX. No, seriously. I have an almost unhealthy obsession with them. They're just so amazing and I'm pretty sure this post is going to be one big, rambing rave about this group. I've loved them from the second I saw them on the a capella competition TV show called The Sing Off. I even went to their concert this last weekend and it was probably one of the most amazing concerts I've been to. 

What is a cappella, you ask? To put it simply: it's a style of music created with only voices. No instruments. Cool, huh?

And Pentatonix redefines the limits of a cappella. I'm amazed at what the voices of five young members can achieve. They manage to make the fullest sound to their music and do so with such a quirky twist. I'm in awe of their arrangements. Oh, did I mention there were only five of them? 

Now, about the song. "Aha!" is a cover of a song by Imogen Heap and frankly, I like Pentatonix's version better. (Sorry, Imogen) I had heard the song on their EP, but it was only after I heard them perform it live was I hooked. I must point out my favorite member of the group, Avi, the super-low bass. I'm pretty sure he can reaches notes lower than any human should. And Mitch, the soloist, has an amazingly beautiful voice. I don't think words to their music justice, so I will say no more.

Also, I cannot beg you enough to click the link to see more and browse through their YouTube channel, watch their Sing Off performances and listen to the rest of their EP.

Click for lyrics, music video, & links!

Hope - The Rain Don't Last

Artist: Hope

Track: The Rain Don't Last

Album: Hope's Indie CD

Year: 2004

One of my friends showed me this song back in junior high while riding in my dad's car and I have loved it ever since. This is a song for when nothing seems to be going right and no matter what you do, it just doesn't seem to get better. So, you need a little something to remind you that it doesn't last and things will get better, so just let it go.

Click here for lyrics & links!

Cherokee - Take Care Of You

Artist: Cherokee

Track: Take Care Of You

Album: Take Care Of You - Single

Year: 2011

This track just makes me melt into a chill, electronic pile of bliss. I love the beat and beautiful guitar notes that waver in and out. No matter where I am, I can sit back and relax to this. Cherokee is a French electronic duo and I will definitely be looking into more of their music after hearing this.

Just listen.

Click for music video & links!

Friendly Fires - Skeleton Boy

Artist: Friendly Fires Track: Skeleton Boy Album: Friendly Fires Year: 2008
"Skeleton Boy" is one big cascading wave of synth beats, poppy melodies, and infectious vocals. It's got a kind of cosmic dance beat that makes you lose yourself in the song and dance away wherever you happen to be. Indie kids wishing to dance will have fun with this one.
Click for lyrics, music video & links!

Ingird Michaelson - Parachute

Artist: Ingid Michaleson Track: Parachute Album: Parachute - Single Year: 2010
NOTE: I don't know why Spotify says this is the "Serban Ghenea Mix" but it's the original.
I love Ingrid Michaelson's music. It's always so cute, poppy, and soft. Unfortunately, it all tends to sound the same. That being said, this song actually stands out to me. It's wonderful in it's simplicity. I love the a cappella parts that lead into a catchy drum beat and acoustic bits. Her voice is refreshing and quirky.
I recently found out a little more about this song. Apparently Ingrid helped write the song, but decided not to record it herself. Instead, she passed it on the Cheryl Cole whose version is more of a dance song with autotune and electronic sounds. Ingird eventually came back and recorded her own version of the song. I haven't heard Cheryl Cole's version, but I absolutely love Ingrid's. 
Click here for lyrics & links!

Iglu & Hartly - In This City

Artist: Iglu & Hartly Track: In This City Album: & Then Bloom Year: 2008
This song is just plain fun. There's so much randomness thrown into the song, but it works itself perfectly into a catchy pop song. Half-rapped lyrics, synthpop notes, and random acoustic bridges. You just have to tap your foot to the beat. And I dare you to try not to smile as you sing along with the lyrics. Click here for lyrics, music video, & links!

Jalan Jalan - Lotus

Artist: Jalan Jalan

Track: Lotus

Album: Bali

Year: 1993

Having trouble falling asleep? Then next time you find yourself lying in bed, staring at the ceiling and not able to go to sleep, turn on this song and drift off (actually I could say the same for the whole album). 

Jalan Jalan's music is a wonderful example of elegantly combining electronic sounds with natural, organic  instuments. The beautiful ambiance of "Lotus" is created through the use of instruments from Bali: bamboo flutes, wooden chimes, & gongs. The repetitive chimes and the echoing vocals have a lulling effective that I absolutely love.

Simply beautiful.

Also, I discovered this song in an equally beautiful animated movie called "Dragon Hunters." If you haven't seen it, go watch it. Oh, and it's in French.

Click here for videos & links!

Gomez - How We Operate

Artist: Gomez

Track: How We Operate

Album: How We Operate

Year: 2006

The best way I can describe this song is mysterious and entrancing. I think you will agree with me after listening to just the first 30 seconds. Gomez has three strong vocalists and "How We Operate" features the vocals of Ben Ottewell. They're gritty and raw and I love the way they mix with the plucking guitars.

This album also features my other favorite by Gomez, "See The World". I had the hardest time deciding which one to feature today, but I finally decided on this one. It's just so entrancing! (And yes, I've already used that word, but it's the best one I can think of).

Click here for lyrics, music video & links!

Miami Horror - Holidays

Artist: Miami Horror ft. Alan Palomo

Track: Holidays

Album: Illumination

Year: 2010

Despite being in the fall months, this song has a distinctly retro summer feel. Alan Palomo from Neon Indian features his crsip vocals. I love the fun, disco sound and swirling synth beats. Like I said, it's a great summer song.

I actually like several of the other tracks on this album, so if you like this one, be sure to check out the rest of Illumination!

Click for lyrics, music video, & links!

Asa - Jailer

Artist: Asa
Track: Jailer

Album: Asa

Year: 2009

I love the acoustic, jazzy sound of this song. It's got a bit of reggae in there too. Asa's vocals are smooth and rich. I've seen them described as "smokey" and I think that describes them perfectly.  

Ever since I first discovered this song when she released it, I've listened to it more times than I count. I believe it winds up on my vacation playlists wherever I go (yes, I create playlists for my family vacations). I distinctly remember driving the winding road to Hana in Maui, Hawaii while listening to this song. 

Click here for lyrics, music video & links!

SomethingALaMode - Little Bit Of Feel Good

Artist: SomethingALaMode ft. Adam Joseph

Track: Little Bit Of Feel Good

Album: SomethingALaMode

Year: 2009

So, I just recently discovered that this song is actually a cover of Jamie Lidell's song by the same name. It was a little odd listening to that one since I've been listening to this one for so long. They have very different sounds, but I still prefer SomethingALaMode's version. 

I'm in love with the violins & cellos layered with the dance beats. The chorus still maintains the funky edge from the original. It's an interesting combination of a song. Give it a listen!

Click for lyrics, music videos (Jamie Lidell's original), & links!

Patrick Watson - Big Bird In A Small Cage

Artist: Patrick Watson
Track: Big Bird In A Small Cage
Album: Wooden Arms
Year: 2009

Since I've been cooped up inside with a terrible migraine for the entire day, today's song is another one of those folksy, soothing tracks I love so much. Patrick's vocals are soft, breathy, and blend with the wispy female vocals of guest Katie Moore. These are backed up with a pleasing mix of soft banjos/guitars, crisp xylophone notes, wavering pianos, and dreamy "ba ba ba"s from the backup vocals. (Sounds like an odd combination doesn't it?)

Click for lyrics & links!

Telepopmusik - Breathe

Artist: Telepopmusik
Track: Breathe
Album: Genetic World
Year: 2002
I love this song so much it's irrational. It's quirky and groovy and dreamy and chill and all things happy. For some reason it reminds me of some sort of swanky salon. The kind where they massage your scalp when they wash your hair and you slip into a small dreamy coma as this song's chill house beat washes over your eardrums...or maybe I'm just getting carried away.
But you should listen to it. Definitely.
Click here for lyrics, music video & links!

BOY - Little Numbers

Artist: BOY
Track: Little Numbers
Album: Mutual Friends
Year: 2011

This song grew on me after a few listens, so if you don't care much for it at first...give it some time. You'll find yourself humming the chorus unconsciously. The duo's vocals are light and pure. The lyrics are also really sweet and fun to sing along with. Just a good pop song for happy moments.

Click for lyrics, music video, & links!

Shwayze - Crazy For You

Artist: Shwayze
Track: Crazy For You
Album: Let It Beat
Year: 2009
Time for a little hip hop again (or something vaguely hip-hop)! I was introduced to this song by a friend a few years back. It's a great feel-good track with fun lyrics, mellow vocals, and lazy guitar strumming. They have a bit of a reggae mixed with rock and a dash of hip-hop thrown in sound to their music. My favorite line is "I wouldn't be late if I looked at the clock, but I'd rather spend time than buy a wrist watch."

Click here for lyrics, music video & link!

SafetySuit - Someone Like You

Artist: SafetySuit
Track: Someone Like You
Album: Life Left To Go
Year: 2007
I had planned on posting a different song today, but my iPod decided to remind me on the way home from work how much I loved this track. The drummer is my favorite part of this track, closely followed by the lead vocals. Both are amazing. The harmonies in the chorus and beginning of the verses are quite delicious as well. There's a lot of catchy energy in this track. The lyrics are also rather bittersweet in my opinion. He loves this person so much that he wonders what he would have to change about himself to be like them and for them to love him back.  

Click here for lyrics, music video & links!

One EskimO - Astronauts

Artist: One EskimO
Track: Astronauts
Album: One EskimO - EP
Year: 2009
Here's another one of those floaty tracks that I just love so much. One EskimO is an English band with a wonderful, refreshing sound. Their debut single "Kandi" has been getting a lot of attention, so I decided I should give a little love to my other favorite track of theirs, "Astronauts." The lead vocals are smooth and dreamy. Combine those with soft guitar chords, simple piano notes, and ambient electronics, and I'll pleasantly slipping into dreamland.  Another cool thing about this band is the fact that they created their own animated series for their music videos. Seriously. Go watch them. They're kind of adorable. Click here for lyrics, music video & lyrics!

Robert Randolph & The Family Band - Ain't Nothin' Wrong With That

Artist: Robert Randolph & The Family Band
Track: Ain't Nothin' Wrong With That
Album: Colorblind
Year: 2006
I do believe it is physically impossible to not  move, dance, tap your feet, or play the drums on your steering wheel while listening to this song. It's just infused with so much funky energy! I immediately loved it the first time I heard the song. I really enjoy the reoccurring guitar riff, especially when it kicks off after the first few seconds of the song. The lyrics are also cheerful and upbeat.

Click here for lyrics, music video, & links!

Non Tiq - Quiet

Artist: Non Tiq
Track: Quiet
Album: Quiet - Single
Year: 2010

This is one of those catchy pop songs that you hear the first time and go, "Huh, that's interesting," but then move on. Then you find yourself playing the chorus in your head so you go look it up again and go, "Okay, that's pretty good. I like it." Then you end up playing it over and over.

Non Tiq's voice has a nice tone to it and the random a capella parts are a nice touch. I like the reverberating harmonies in the chorus. 

Click here for lyrics, music video & links!

Sam Sparro - Black & Gold

Artist: Sam Sparro
Track: Black & Gold
Album: Sam Sparro
Year: 2008
This song took a while to get to me, but it didn't give up. I downloaded it as a freebie from iTunes back in 2008, put it on my iPod, and promptly forgot about it. Then about a year later it popped up on shuffle as I was driving and couldn't stop listening to it afterwards. I love the bass line in the beginning! The beat is great, in my opinion. Very catchy. Click for lyrics, music video, & link!

The Paper Kites - Bloom

Artist: The Paper Kites
Track: Bloom
Album: Woodland
Year: 2011
This is another one of those acoustic tracks that just make me melt. Sweet guitar chords mix with quiet, dreamy vocals and a dash of soft whistling. The lyrics are sweet and perfect of easy listening, laid-back, calm moods. Simple beautiful! Click for lyrics, music video, & lyrics!

Woodkid - Iron

Artist: Woodkid
Track: Iron
Album: Iron - EP
Year: 2011
If I had to pick one word to describe this song, it would be "mesmerizing". I got hooked at the beginning with the tribal beat and then the vocals started. Woodkid's voice is low and rich. The song builds dramatically whenever the brass comes in. Honestly, it's kind of like a story.   The music video matches it perfectly. It too is mesmerizing . You just can't seem to stop watching it 'cause you're trying to makes sense of the whole thing.  Click here for lyrics, music video, & links!

CYNE - Pretty Apollo

Artist: CYNE
Track: Pretty Apoloo
Album: Water For Mars
Year: 2009
WARNING: This song does contain explicit content, but very little.  I haven't featured any hip-hop yet, so here's a little something. CYNE's track "Pretty Apollo" has been in my music collection for a while now and I still love it. Maybe it's because of the title, but when I listen to the opening to the song, I see a space shuttle launch in my mind. The song has an uplifting beat and feel-good lyrics. Plus I really like main vocalist's voice and that's surprising for me, because I'm not a huge fan of most hip-hop/rap. Click here for lyrics and links!

LIGHTS - Siberia

Artist: LIGHTS
Track: Siberia
Album: Siberia
Year: 2011

LIGHTS's high, innocent vocals blend perfectly with a mix of distorted bass and heavy synthesized beats. Heavy emphasis on the distorted part. The chorus is extremely catchy and I found myself humming it after I heard this song for the first time.

Click for lyrics & link!