1. “Felicia” – The Constellations [4-13-2010]. A good groovin’ rock track – nee a psychedelic soul-rock explosion -- from emerging band out of ATL.
2. “Africa Must Wake Up” – Damian Marley + Nas, featuring K’naan [5-18-2010]. Easy grooves, primarily of Nas, Damian on the chorus and a great verse by K’naan in his native Somali. One world, baby!
3. “The High Road” – Broken Bells [1-15-10]. The lead single from forthcoming album by Danger Mouse and The Shins’ James Mercer is dreamy, alt-space pop.
4. “Evil Woman” – Mike Posner [12-29-2009]. Admittedly a late find, but worth a spin as Number One because who’s not onboard from the get-go? This contemporary R&B / hip-hop remix of 70’s classic rock –n- roll ELO stalwart grooves along a plentiful mojo all its own.
5. “Carry Out” – Timbaland featured Justin Timberlake [2-22-2010]. The dynamic duo pairs up again to churn out this boomin’ R&B dance track.
6. “Paradise Circus” – Massive Attack [2-9-2010]. Typically mellow and ambient track from Brit pioneers of trip-hop.
7. “Angels” Remix – Dirty Money featuring Lupe Fiasco [un-released]. Ambient synth hip-hop lays out an ultra-hip, lounge vibe, all while remixing Jay-Z and Dirty Money with a dash of Lupe.
8. “There Goes My Baby” – Usher [2-9-2010]. With irresistible melodies, this easy ballad gets you singing right along with the R&B guru from Hot-Lanta who’s moving it back here to his roots.
9. “One Way Road” – John Butler Trio [4-6-2010]. Finally able to play this Feb-release by Cali born and Australia-bred, John Butler who has spanned the breadth of guitar styles over the years, and on this single release, he hits a toe-tappin’ jam.
10. “How I Got Over” – The Roots [6-21-10]. A poignant reminder of life on gritty, urban streets with cameos from Roots members who lay it down with smart & soulful hip-hop.
11. “Electric Feel” – Katy Perry (un-released). Pop songstress covers this alternative track by MGMT with sufficient angst and spare back-up.
12. “Like a G6” – Far East Movement featuring The Cataracts (4-13-2010). With electronic dubs and sexy girl backbeats, this dance track will get you movin’ in the dancefloor.
13. “Hello, Good Morning” – Dirty Money (featuring T.I.) [3-30-2010]. Diddy’s newly formed band rocks big, irresistible, dance-club-beats and blends rhythms with boy-girl raps on this third single from Diddy’s forthcoming album.
14. “Use Somebody” – Pixie Lott [1-27-2010]. Young, emerging British siren covers already fantastic song by Kings of Leon in lovely acoustic ballad.
15. “Cooler Than Me” -- Mike Posner (featuring Big Sean) [1-26-2010]. R&B pop track with easy flow and dance sensibility.
16. “Love the Way You Lie” – Eminem featuring Rihanna [6-21-2010]. With ferocious lyrics about a volatile relationship by power pop duo with distinctive joined vocals, this very popular track soars.
17. “All I Want is You” – Miguel featuring J. Cole [5-25-2010]. A smooth, sexy hip-hop and R&B track by Miguel Jontel off forthcoming self-titled debut album.
18. “I Can’t Get Enough” – Rooney [6-8-2010]. A breezy pop track off third self-titled album from boys from Cali.
19. “143” – Bobby Brackins featuring Ray J [5-18-2010]. Hip-hop op duet by veteran and (very-young-sounding) rapper born and raised in Oakland, Cali.
20. “Fantasy Girl” – Baby Bash featuring Marty James [3-30-2010]. A sure-fire dance floor hit from latin hip-hopper out of Vallejo, Cali – more R&B candy – this time featuring loopy hip-hop-pop duet.
21. “Answer to Yourself” – The Soft Pack [2-2-2010]. Old-school sounding Garage rock from San Diego group who originally called themselves The Muslims but switched gears for this self-titled debut album.
22. “I Don’t Care” – Raheem DeVaughn [3-2-2010]. With a smooth 80’s sound this new groovin’ R&B track will get you movin’, and go ahead and let the haters keep hatin’. Not our problem.
23. “Fire in Your New Shoes” – Kaskade featuring Dragonette [4-27-2010]. An electronica dance track by DJ, influential in the San Francisco house scene , who pairs up with Canadian songstress.
24. “Tumblin’ Down” – Jenna Andrews [6-9-2010]. Lead single from Island Records debut by emerging Canandian-born singer-song-writer.
25. “Hot n Fun” – N.E.R.D. featuring Nelly Furtado [5-18-2010]. With dance floor beats, this steamy boy-girl duet is sure to get ur grind on.
26. “Set Me Free” – Lloyd featuring Mystikal (un-released). Urban ATL crooner, Lloyd, lays his harmonious vocals against old school boogie-woogie and pairs with a rougher cameo by Mystikal.
27. “Drummer Boy” – Debi Nova [1-19-2010]. A pop debut single that’s climbing the international dance charts by chica linda from San Jose, Costa Rica.
28. “Mystery Zone” – Spoon [1-19-10}. While slightly monotonous in pitch, this track plays like a pop-hit-in-the-making from these indie rockers out of Austin, Texas.
29. “Clap Your Hands” – Sia [6-4-2010]. A pop number undercut with a dance vibe and drizzled with signature and now-seasoned vocals by beauty born in Australia, who moved to the U.K. to achieve stardom.
30. “Healing Hands” – Citizen Cope [1-19-10]. It’s been a while for Citizen Cope – but here it is – a new, mellow alt-track by Clarence Greenwood – the man & the band – out of Memphis.
31. “Symphonies” -- Dan Black (2-16-2010). Combining symphonic backbeats with careful vocals from UK’s genre-mixing Wonky Pop movement.
32. “Hold Yuh” – Gyptian [3-9-2010]. Tight, roots-minded reggae by emerging artist from St. Andrew, Jamaica. Ya, mon.
33. “As We Enter” – Nas and Damien Jr. Gong Marley [2-23-2010]. A quick-moving, tit-for-tat hip-hop mixed with reggae duet with old school background beats.
34. “Heaven’s on Fire” – The Radio Dept. [3-23-1010]. A flowing indie pop track off recent EP released by rock band out of Sweden.
35. “Alright” – Pitbull featuring Machel Montano [6-8-2010]. The latest latino-club track from the Miami rapper who teams up here with Trinadad-born rapper that will get chy’all dancin’ out on the floor.
36. “Beautiful Monster” – Ne-Yo [6-8-2010]. Another smash pop R&B hit by songwriter, arranger and vocalist from Las Vegas via Arkansas.
37. “The Kids” – B.o.B. featuring Janelle Monae [4-27-10]. Mixing alt-rock with hip-hop and a lovely cameo, this emerging pop-rapper from ATL loads this cover track of MGMT onto his first full-length album release.
38. “Odessa” – Caribou [4-20-2010]. With a 4-20 release and a trippy album cover, this is the lead track from latest album by Canadian indie-electronic band.
39. “The Gaudy Side of Town” – Gayngs [5-10-2010]. From newly formed, Minneapolis-based dance-pop collective creates R&B-infused electro-indie tracks, including this one, featuring Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon.
40. “Dear God 2.0” – The Roots [6-21-1010]. Phili Rap group covers unlikely indie track – call it Beard Rap by Monsters of Folk with edge– with original harmonies laced throughout.
41. “Animal” – Neon Trees (single) [1-26-10]. An energetic single release off Island/Def Jam label rocks alternative groove with catchy, pop background and strong vocals.
42. “Who Dat “ -- J. Cole [6-4-2010]. Second big single by edgy emerging rapper (a Jay-Z find --) from North Carolina.
43. “Shake Drop on Video” – The White Panda [un-released]. Pumping dance beats, a youthful hip-hop vibe loaded with cameo raps, all charge this new single by mash-up/remix duo out of Chicago and L.A.
44. “I Will Live on Islands” – Josh Rouse [3-9-2010]. Baroque Pop with a retro-feel written by singer-songwriter, native Nebraskan and world traveler when he lived in Spain ( -- half the album is performed in Spanish!).
45. “Rocket” – Goldfrapp [3-10-2010]. With a pulsing dance beat, by signature pop rocker/keyboardist/composer out of Bath, England.
46. “On Time” – Disco Biscuits featuring tuPhace [3-16-2010] A grooving track with a disco wind by eclectic U Penn jam band.
47. “Break Your Heart” -- Taio Cruz (featuring Ludacris) [2-23-2010]. This is the third smash single from emerging pop R&B singer out of London who wrote Rihanna’s smash hit “Umbrella.”
48. “Butta Kup” – Baby Bash (3-30-10) A sugary R&B pop track that covers everything sweet to describe l’object of desire.
49. “Just You and I” – Ricky Blaze [6-1-2010]. New pop reggae from emerging young artist out of Brooklyn.
50. “Welcome Home” – Rehab [4-27-2010]. Feel-good classic rock acoustic number that makes it feel good to be heading back home (yes, from rehab) by the southern duo better known for their hip-hop tracks.
51. “Take Over the World” – Kidz in the Hall [3-9-2010]. Pop hip-hop track by new-gen MC/DJ (-- friends from UPenn --) duo out of Chicago.
52. “Aint Leavin’ without You” – Jaheim [2-5-2010]. With an upbeat, 80’s Jeffrey Osborne-like sound, Jaheim lays out power R&B soul and boudoir jams.
53. “The Night Before the Funeral” – The Mary Onettes [5-5-2010]. A snappy, upbeat indie-track off latest 2-track EP by band out of Sweden.
54. “Poison” – The All-American Rejects (3-2-2010). A pretty acoustic number with harmonized vocals in support of the new ALMOST ALICE soundtrack.
55. “Drown in the Now” – The Crystal Method featuring Matisyahu (1-19-2010). Off latest EP, a curious mix of reggae and eerie electronica re-mixes that’s emerging as a big hit on the dance floor charts.
56. “Tightrope” – Janelle Monae featuring Big Boi [2-23-2010). An upbeat, sometimes abstract, original, old school-sounding R&B track with cameo from Outkast frontman Big Boi.
57. “July Flame” – Laura Veirs [1-12-2010]. A Colorado native who now calls Portland, Oregon, home sounds a lot like a modern-day Suzanne Vega with her spare musical arrangements and lovely voice.
58. “The Cave” Mumford & Sons [2-16-2010]. UK neo-folk quartet lays out banjos and acoustic guitars for a down-home sounding rock track.
59. “Alice” – Avril Lavigne (3-2-2010). The Canadian pop sensation adds her two cents to the new Almost Alice soundtrack with some serious vocal pipes.
60. “You Look Better When I’m Drunk” – White Tie Affair [4-20-2010]. A shameless. 80’s influenced pop rock dance track from group out of Chicago that gets right to the point to say it all.
61. “California Gurls” – Katy Perry featuring Snoop Dogg (5-7-2010). The lead track from Katy’s forthcoming sophomore album is a shameless pop track glorifying California girls and their sunny lifestyles with an unlikely cameo by Snoop.
62. “Tighten Up” – The Black Keys [5-18-2010]. A good-groove alt-rock track by natives of Akron, Ohio.
63. “The Mistake” – AM Taxi [5-18-2010]. The lead single from debut album by emerging rock band out of Chicago.
64. “My First Kiss” – 3oh!3 featuring Kesha [5-4-2010]. A clap-along, jump-up-and down pop track that pairs two youthful pop sensations.
65. “Wide Eyes” -- Local Natives [2-16-2010]. A plucky debut album from an L.A. band, with ethereal and gentle harmonies influenced by Pacific Northwest sounds.
66. “Youth” – Beach Fossils [5-25-2010] The pithy lead track off their self-titled debut album features lots of easy strumming indie-guitars and distorted vocals.
67. “Window Seat”- Erykah Badu [2-9-2010]. Latest single from signature-sounding R&B earth-goddess super-songstress from forthcoming album.
68. “White Rabbit” – Grace Potter and the Nocturnals (3-2-2010). As part of the new ALMOST ALICE soundtrack, this version of the 70’s hippy-druggie classic is down with less rock and features clear, bright vocals and a trippy close.
69. “Your Love” – Nicki Minaj [2-8-2010]. Emerging R&B duet mistress out of Queens uses the backbeat and refrain to Annie Lennox’s track “No More I Love You’s” in this easy pop rap track.
70. “Driving Me Crazy” – Sam Adams [3-4-10]. A feel-good, white-boy hip-hop pop track by beloved Boston boy that is appealing to the college crowd.
71. “I’m Beamin’” – Lupe Fiasco [2-2-2010]. “See me now – just look around -- I’m beamin’” is the upbeat, up-from-the-bootstraps reverb from this single from Chicago-based Muslim MC.
72. “Waka, Waka (This time for Africa)” – Shakira [6-20-2010]. An upbeat world dance sound that stands tall as the official 2010 track for The FIFA World Cup Soccer Tournament .
73. Uffie – “Pop the Glock” [6-22-2010]. American-born, Paris-based MC mixes her Shirley-Temple voice with ghetto motifs in this distorted pop track off her debut album.
74. “Come with Me” – Ceo [6-29-10]. A breezy, Electro-pop track by debut solo effort of former member of Swedish duo The Tough Alliance.
75. “Deuces” – Chris Brown [6-28-2010]. Mellow and entreating pop track by R&B Bad Boy who’s trying to stage a comeback.
76. “Dance Forever” – Allstar Weekend [6-21-2010]. Lead track off debut album by emerging emo-pop quartet out of San Diego
77. “Coquet Coquette” – Of Montreal [6-29-2010]. Pulsating slab of glam-indie rock from band out of Athens, GA, off newly-released EP.
78. “Spaceship” – Benny Benassi [6-1-10]. An electronica number – big on the dance charts – by fun and fashionable DJ /producer from Milan.
79. “Get Up” – Kimberly Davis [1-12-2010]. A breakout debut single that is climbing the dance charts by R&B groove queen.
80. “Between the Lines” – Stone Temple Pilots (4-6-10). A good, old-fashioned rock track from the early harbingers of grunge.
81. “Power” – Kanye West featuring Dwele [6-1-2010]. If you’re still willing to listen to him, here’s Kanye’s latest angry rant against a more rock-oriented background.
82. “White Flag Warrior” – Flobots [3-16-2010]. A hearty alternative track that juggles indie rock with indie hip-hop by innovative seven-piece band out of Denver.
83. “Memories” – David Guetta feat. Kid Cudi [2-17-2010]. With Guetta on the club beats and Kudi handling the (repetitive) lyrics, you’ve got a dance number to rock the house.
84. “Follow Me Down” – 30H!3 featuring Neon Hitch [3-2-2010]. The alt-pop duo from Boulder releases its latest hit to be included on forthcoming ALICE IN WONDERLAND soundtrack and whose sound mixes electronica with booming rock guitar & vocals.
85. “White Sky” – Vampire Weekend [1-11-10]. This easy-going track about kicking it in Manhattan, off the follow-up to their 2008 debut, sounds very much like a nod to Paul Simon’s Graceland, mixed with Vampire’s own preppy, indie-rock.
86. “Soldier of Love” – Sade [1-12-10]. The melancholy soul singer, smoking-hot in the 80’s, with angular percussion and discordant back-up vocals.
87. “We Are One” – 12 Stones [4-6-2010]. A hearty rock anthem for the young generation off forthcoming album from band outside of New Orleans.
88. “Lewis Takes off his Shirt” -- Owen Pallett [1-12-10]. A spunky, orchestral-electronica alternative sound that mixes various sounds and vocals.
89. “A Lifeless Ordinary (Need a Little Help)” -- Motion City Soundtrack [1-15-10]. Peppy, alternative/emo-rock from major label debut by Minneapolis and Virginia who rock big guitar and pop vibrato hooks.
90. “Angel Echoes” – Four Tet [1-26-1010]. Experimental, down-tempo track undertaken as side-project by Brit Kieren Hebden.
91. “Armada Latina” – Cypress Hill featuring Marc Antony and Pitbull [3-2-2010). A remix of the cult 70’s CSNY hippy classic with a twist of hip-hop and a dash of south of the border fiesta.
92. “Stylo” – Gorillaz [1-26-2010]. The lead track from their forthcoming album scheduled to drop in March features a distinctly electronica vibe with equally distinctive vocals by the self-conceived “fist virtual hip-hop” band.
93. “Fall Hard’ – Shout Out Louds [2-23-10]. Airy, sleek guitar and vocals from proud indie-rock neo-cons out of Stockholm.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Thursday, August 5, 2010
RollnSmokeRecords Presents: Best Songs of 2010
1. “Felicia” – The Constellations [4-13-2010]. A good groovin’ rock track – nee a psychedelic soul-rock explosion -- from emerging band out of ATL.
2. “Africa Must Wake Up” – Damian Marley + Nas, featuring K’naan [5-18-2010]. Easy grooves, primarily of Nas, Damian on the chorus and a great verse by K’naan in his native Somali. One world, baby!
3. “The High Road” – Broken Bells [1-15-10]. The lead single from forthcoming album by Danger Mouse and The Shins’ James Mercer is dreamy, alt-space pop.
4. “Evil Woman” – Mike Posner [12-29-2009]. Admittedly a late find, but worth a spin as Number One because who’s not onboard from the get-go? This contemporary R&B / hip-hop remix of 70’s classic rock –n- roll ELO stalwart grooves along a plentiful mojo all its own.
5. “Carry Out” – Timbaland featured Justin Timberlake [2-22-2010]. The dynamic duo pairs up again to churn out this boomin’ R&B dance track.
6. “Paradise Circus” – Massive Attack [2-9-2010]. Typically mellow and ambient track from Brit pioneers of trip-hop.
7. “Angels” Remix – Dirty Money featuring Lupe Fiasco [un-released]. Ambient synth hip-hop lays out an ultra-hip, lounge vibe, all while remixing Jay-Z and Dirty Money with a dash of Lupe.
8. “There Goes My Baby” – Usher [2-9-2010]. With irresistible melodies, this easy ballad gets you singing right along with the R&B guru from Hot-Lanta who’s moving it back here to his roots.
9. “One Way Road” – John Butler Trio [4-6-2010]. Finally able to play this Feb-release by Cali born and Australia-bred, John Butler who has spanned the breadth of guitar styles over the years, and on this single release, he hits a toe-tappin’ jam.
10. “Electric Feel” – Katy Perry (un-released). Pop songstress covers this alternative track by MGMT with sufficient angst and spare back-up.
11. “Like a G6” – Far East Movement featuring The Cataracts (4-13-2010). With electronic dubs and sexy girl backbeats, this dance track will get you movin’ in the dancefloor.
12. “Hello, Good Morning” – Dirty Money (featuring T.I.) [3-30-2010]. Diddy’s newly formed band rocks big, irresistible, dance-club-beats and blends rhythms with boy-girl raps on this third single from Diddy’s forthcoming album.
13. “Use Somebody” – Pixie Lott [1-27-2010]. Young, emerging British siren covers already fantastic song by Kings of Leon in lovely acoustic ballad.
14. “Cooler Than Me” -- Mike Posner (featuring Big Sean) [1-26-2010]. R&B pop track with easy flow and dance sensibility.
15. “All I Want is You” – Miguel featuring J. Cole [5-25-2010]. A smooth, sexy hip-hop and R&B track by Miguel Jontel off forthcoming self-titled debut album.
16. “I Can’t Get Enough” – Rooney [6-8-2010]. A breezy pop track off third self-titled album from boys from Cali.
17. “143” – Bobby Brackins featuring Ray J [5-18-2010]. Hip-hop op duet by veteran and (very-young-sounding) rapper born and raised in Oakland, Cali.
18. “Fantasy Girl” – Baby Bash featuring Marty James [3-30-2010]. A sure-fire dance floor hit from latin hip-hopper out of Vallejo, Cali – more R&B candy – this time featuring loopy hip-hop-pop duet.
19. “Answer to Yourself” – The Soft Pack [2-2-2010]. Old-school sounding Garage rock from San Diego group who originally called themselves The Muslims but switched gears for this self-titled debut album.
20. “I Don’t Care” – Raheem DeVaughn [3-2-2010]. With a smooth 80’s sound this new groovin’ R&B track will get you movin’, and go ahead and let the haters keep hatin’. Not our problem.
21. “Fire in Your New Shoes” – Kaskade featuring Dragonette [4-27-2010]. An electronica dance track by DJ, influential in the San Francisco house scene , who pairs up with Canadian songstress.
22. “Tumblin’ Down” – Jenna Andrews [6-9-2010]. Lead single from Island Records debut by emerging Canandian-born singer-song-writer.
23. “Hot n Fun” – N.E.R.D. featuring Nelly Furtado [5-18-2010]. With dance floor beats, this steamy boy-girl duet is sure to get ur grind on.
24. “Set Me Free” – Lloyd featuring Mystikal (un-released). Urban ATL crooner, Lloyd, lays his harmonious vocals against old school boogie-woogie and pairs with a rougher cameo by Mystikal.
25. “Drummer Boy” – Debi Nova [1-19-2010]. A pop debut single that’s climbing the international dance charts by chica linda from San Jose, Costa Rica.
26. “Mystery Zone” – Spoon [1-19-10}. While slightly monotonous in pitch, this track plays like a pop-hit-in-the-making from these indie rockers out of Austin, Texas.
27. “Clap Your Hands” – Sia [6-4-2010]. A pop number undercut with a dance vibe and drizzled with signature and now-seasoned vocals by beauty born in Australia, who moved to the U.K. to achieve stardom.
28. “Healing Hands” – Citizen Cope [1-19-10]. It’s been a while for Citizen Cope – but here it is – a new, mellow alt-track by Clarence Greenwood – the man & the band – out of Memphis.
29. “Symphonies” -- Dan Black (2-16-2010). Combining symphonic backbeats with careful vocals from UK’s genre-mixing Wonky Pop movement.
30. “Hold Yuh” – Gyptian [3-9-2010]. Tight, roots-minded reggae by emerging artist from St. Andrew, Jamaica. Ya, mon.
31. “As We Enter” – Nas and Damien Jr. Gong Marley [2-23-2010]. A quick-moving, tit-for-tat hip-hop mixed with reggae duet with old school background beats.
32. “Heaven’s on Fire” – The Radio Dept. [3-23-1010]. A flowing indie pop track off recent EP released by rock band out of Sweden.
33. “Alright” – Pitbull featuring Machel Montano [6-8-2010]. The latest latino-club track from the Miami rapper who teams up here with Trinadad-born rapper that will get chy’all dancin’ out on the floor.
34. “Beautiful Monster” – Ne-Yo [6-8-2010]. Another smash pop R&B hit by songwriter, arranger and vocalist from Las Vegas via Arkansas.
35. “The Kids” – B.o.B. featuring Janelle Monae [4-27-10]. Mixing alt-rock with hip-hop and a lovely cameo, this emerging pop-rapper from ATL loads this cover track of MGMT onto his first full-length album release.
36. “Odessa” – Caribou [4-20-2010]. With a 4-20 release and a trippy album cover, this is the lead track from latest album by Canadian indie-electronic band.
37. “The Gaudy Side of Town” – Gayngs [5-10-2010]. From newly formed, Minneapolis-based dance-pop collective creates R&B-infused electro-indie tracks, including this one, featuring Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon.
38. “Animal” – Neon Trees (single) [1-26-10]. An energetic single release off Island/Def Jam label rocks alternative groove with catchy, pop background and strong vocals.
39. “Who Dat “ -- J. Cole [6-4-2010]. Second big single by edgy emerging rapper (a Jay-Z find --) from North Carolina.
40. “Shake Drop on Video” – The White Panda [un-released]. Pumping dance beats, a youthful hip-hop vibe loaded with cameo raps, all charge this new single by mash-up/remix duo out of Chicago and L.A.
41. “I Will Live on Islands” – Josh Rouse [3-9-2010]. Baroque Pop with a retro-feel written by singer-songwriter, native Nebraskan and world traveler when he lived in Spain ( -- half the album is performed in Spanish!).
42. “Rocket” – Goldfrapp [3-10-2010]. With a pulsing dance beat, by signature pop rocker/keyboardist/composer out of Bath, England.
43. “On Time” – Disco Biscuits featuring tuPhace [3-16-2010] A grooving track with a disco wind by eclectic U Penn jam band.
44. “Break Your Heart” -- Taio Cruz (featuring Ludacris) [2-23-2010]. This is the third smash single from emerging pop R&B singer out of London who wrote Rihanna’s smash hit “Umbrella.”
45. “Butta Kup” – Baby Bash (3-30-10) A sugary R&B pop track that covers everything sweet to describe l’object of desire.
46. “Just You and I” – Ricky Blaze [6-1-2010]. New pop reggae from emerging young artist out of Brooklyn.
47. “Welcome Home” – Rehab [4-27-2010]. Feel-good classic rock acoustic number that makes it feel good to be heading back home (yes, from rehab) by the southern duo better known for their hip-hop tracks.
48. “Take Over the World” – Kidz in the Hall [3-9-2010]. Pop hip-hop track by new-gen MC/DJ (-- friends from UPenn --) duo out of Chicago.
49. “Aint Leavin’ without You” – Jaheim [2-5-2010]. With an upbeat, 80’s Jeffrey Osborne-like sound, Jaheim lays out power R&B soul and boudoir jams.
50. “The Night Before the Funeral” – The Mary Onettes [5-5-2010]. A snappy, upbeat indie-track off latest 2-track EP by band out of Sweden.
51. “Poison” – The All-American Rejects (3-2-2010). A pretty acoustic number with harmonized vocals in support of the new ALMOST ALICE soundtrack.
52. “Drown in the Now” – The Crystal Method featuring Matisyahu (1-19-2010). Off latest EP, a curious mix of reggae and eerie electronica re-mixes that’s emerging as a big hit on the dance floor charts.
53. “Tightrope” – Janelle Monae featuring Big Boi [2-23-2010). An upbeat, sometimes abstract, original, old school-sounding R&B track with cameo from Outkast frontman Big Boi.
54. “July Flame” – Laura Veirs [1-12-2010]. A Colorado native who now calls Portland, Oregon, home sounds a lot like a modern-day Suzanne Vega with her spare musical arrangements and lovely voice.
55. “The Cave” Mumford & Sons [2-16-2010]. UK neo-folk quartet lays out banjos and acoustic guitars for a down-home sounding rock track.
56. “Alice” – Avril Lavigne (3-2-2010). The Canadian pop sensation adds her two cents to the new Almost Alice soundtrack with some serious vocal pipes.
57. “You Look Better When I’m Drunk” – White Tie Affair [4-20-2010]. A shameless. 80’s influenced pop rock dance track from group out of Chicago that gets right to the point to say it all.
58. “California Gurls” – Katy Perry featuring Snoop Dogg (5-7-2010). The lead track from Katy’s forthcoming sophomore album is a shameless pop track glorifying California girls and their sunny lifestyles with an unlikely cameo by Snoop.
59. “Tighten Up” – The Black Keys [5-18-2010]. A good-groove alt-rock track by natives of Akron, Ohio.
60. “The Mistake” – AM Taxi [5-18-2010]. The lead single from debut album by emerging rock band out of Chicago.
61. “My First Kiss” – 3oh!3 featuring Kesha [5-4-2010]. A clap-along, jump-up-and down pop track that pairs two youthful pop sensations.
62. “Wide Eyes” -- Local Natives [2-16-2010]. A plucky debut album from an L.A. band, with ethereal and gentle harmonies influenced by Pacific Northwest sounds.
63. “Youth” – Beach Fossils [5-25-2010] The pithy lead track off their self-titled debut album features lots of easy strumming indie-guitars and distorted vocals.
64. “Window Seat”- Erykah Badu [2-9-2010]. Latest single from signature-sounding R&B earth-goddess super-songstress from forthcoming album.
65. “White Rabbit” – Grace Potter and the Nocturnals (3-2-2010). As part of the new ALMOST ALICE soundtrack, this version of the 70’s hippy-druggie classic is down with less rock and features clear, bright vocals and a trippy close.
66. “Your Love” – Nicki Minaj [2-8-2010]. Emerging R&B duet mistress out of Queens uses the backbeat and refrain to Annie Lennox’s track “No More I Love You’s” in this easy pop rap track.
67. “Driving Me Crazy” – Sam Adams [3-4-10]. A feel-good, white-boy hip-hop pop track by beloved Boston boy that is appealing to the college crowd.
68. “I’m Beamin’” – Lupe Fiasco [2-2-2010]. “See me now – just look around -- I’m beamin’” is the upbeat, up-from-the-bootstraps reverb from this single from Chicago-based Muslim MC.
69. “Get Up” – Kimberly Davis [1-12-2010]. A breakout debut single that is climbing the dance charts by R&B groove queen.
70. “Between the Lines” – Stone Temple Pilots (4-6-10). A good, old-fashioned rock track from the early harbingers of grunge.
71. “Power” – Kanye West featuring Dwele [6-1-2010]. If you’re still willing to listen to him, here’s Kanye’s latest angry rant against a more rock-oriented background.
72. “White Flag Warrior” – Flobots [3-16-2010]. A hearty alternative track that juggles indie rock with indie hip-hop by innovative seven-piece band out of Denver.
73. “Memories” – David Guetta feat. Kid Cudi [2-17-2010]. With Guetta on the club beats and Kudi handling the (repetitive) lyrics, you’ve got a dance number to rock the house.
74. “Follow Me Down” – 30H!3 featuring Neon Hitch [3-2-2010]. The alt-pop duo from Boulder releases its latest hit to be included on forthcoming ALICE IN WONDERLAND soundtrack and whose sound mixes electronica with booming rock guitar & vocals.
75. “White Sky” – Vampire Weekend [1-11-10]. This easy-going track about kicking it in Manhattan, off the follow-up to their 2008 debut, sounds very much like a nod to Paul Simon’s Graceland, mixed with Vampire’s own preppy, indie-rock.
76. “Soldier of Love” – Sade [1-12-10]. The melancholy soul singer, smoking-hot in the 80’s, with angular percussion and discordant back-up vocals.
77. “We Are One” – 12 Stones [4-6-2010]. A hearty rock anthem for the young generation off forthcoming album from band outside of New Orleans.
78. “Lewis Takes off his Shirt” -- Owen Pallett [1-12-10]. A spunky, orchestral-electronica alternative sound that mixes various sounds and vocals.
79. “A Lifeless Ordinary (Need a Little Help)” -- Motion City Soundtrack [1-15-10]. Peppy, alternative/emo-rock from major label debut by Minneapolis and Virginia who rock big guitar and pop vibrato hooks.
80. “Angel Echoes” – Four Tet [1-26-1010]. Experimental, down-tempo track undertaken as side-project by Brit Kieren Hebden.
81. “Armada Latina” – Cypress Hill featuring Marc Antony and Pitbull [3-2-2010). A remix of the cult 70’s CSNY hippy classic with a twist of hip-hop and a dash of south of the border fiesta.
82. “Stylo” – Gorillaz [1-26-2010]. The lead track from their forthcoming album scheduled to drop in March features a distinctly electronica vibe with equally distinctive vocals by the self-conceived “fist virtual hip-hop” band.
83. “Fall Hard’ – Shout Out Louds [2-23-10]. Airy, sleek guitar and vocals from proud indie-rock neo-cons out of Stockholm.
2. “Africa Must Wake Up” – Damian Marley + Nas, featuring K’naan [5-18-2010]. Easy grooves, primarily of Nas, Damian on the chorus and a great verse by K’naan in his native Somali. One world, baby!
3. “The High Road” – Broken Bells [1-15-10]. The lead single from forthcoming album by Danger Mouse and The Shins’ James Mercer is dreamy, alt-space pop.
4. “Evil Woman” – Mike Posner [12-29-2009]. Admittedly a late find, but worth a spin as Number One because who’s not onboard from the get-go? This contemporary R&B / hip-hop remix of 70’s classic rock –n- roll ELO stalwart grooves along a plentiful mojo all its own.
5. “Carry Out” – Timbaland featured Justin Timberlake [2-22-2010]. The dynamic duo pairs up again to churn out this boomin’ R&B dance track.
6. “Paradise Circus” – Massive Attack [2-9-2010]. Typically mellow and ambient track from Brit pioneers of trip-hop.
7. “Angels” Remix – Dirty Money featuring Lupe Fiasco [un-released]. Ambient synth hip-hop lays out an ultra-hip, lounge vibe, all while remixing Jay-Z and Dirty Money with a dash of Lupe.
8. “There Goes My Baby” – Usher [2-9-2010]. With irresistible melodies, this easy ballad gets you singing right along with the R&B guru from Hot-Lanta who’s moving it back here to his roots.
9. “One Way Road” – John Butler Trio [4-6-2010]. Finally able to play this Feb-release by Cali born and Australia-bred, John Butler who has spanned the breadth of guitar styles over the years, and on this single release, he hits a toe-tappin’ jam.
10. “Electric Feel” – Katy Perry (un-released). Pop songstress covers this alternative track by MGMT with sufficient angst and spare back-up.
11. “Like a G6” – Far East Movement featuring The Cataracts (4-13-2010). With electronic dubs and sexy girl backbeats, this dance track will get you movin’ in the dancefloor.
12. “Hello, Good Morning” – Dirty Money (featuring T.I.) [3-30-2010]. Diddy’s newly formed band rocks big, irresistible, dance-club-beats and blends rhythms with boy-girl raps on this third single from Diddy’s forthcoming album.
13. “Use Somebody” – Pixie Lott [1-27-2010]. Young, emerging British siren covers already fantastic song by Kings of Leon in lovely acoustic ballad.
14. “Cooler Than Me” -- Mike Posner (featuring Big Sean) [1-26-2010]. R&B pop track with easy flow and dance sensibility.
15. “All I Want is You” – Miguel featuring J. Cole [5-25-2010]. A smooth, sexy hip-hop and R&B track by Miguel Jontel off forthcoming self-titled debut album.
16. “I Can’t Get Enough” – Rooney [6-8-2010]. A breezy pop track off third self-titled album from boys from Cali.
17. “143” – Bobby Brackins featuring Ray J [5-18-2010]. Hip-hop op duet by veteran and (very-young-sounding) rapper born and raised in Oakland, Cali.
18. “Fantasy Girl” – Baby Bash featuring Marty James [3-30-2010]. A sure-fire dance floor hit from latin hip-hopper out of Vallejo, Cali – more R&B candy – this time featuring loopy hip-hop-pop duet.
19. “Answer to Yourself” – The Soft Pack [2-2-2010]. Old-school sounding Garage rock from San Diego group who originally called themselves The Muslims but switched gears for this self-titled debut album.
20. “I Don’t Care” – Raheem DeVaughn [3-2-2010]. With a smooth 80’s sound this new groovin’ R&B track will get you movin’, and go ahead and let the haters keep hatin’. Not our problem.
21. “Fire in Your New Shoes” – Kaskade featuring Dragonette [4-27-2010]. An electronica dance track by DJ, influential in the San Francisco house scene , who pairs up with Canadian songstress.
22. “Tumblin’ Down” – Jenna Andrews [6-9-2010]. Lead single from Island Records debut by emerging Canandian-born singer-song-writer.
23. “Hot n Fun” – N.E.R.D. featuring Nelly Furtado [5-18-2010]. With dance floor beats, this steamy boy-girl duet is sure to get ur grind on.
24. “Set Me Free” – Lloyd featuring Mystikal (un-released). Urban ATL crooner, Lloyd, lays his harmonious vocals against old school boogie-woogie and pairs with a rougher cameo by Mystikal.
25. “Drummer Boy” – Debi Nova [1-19-2010]. A pop debut single that’s climbing the international dance charts by chica linda from San Jose, Costa Rica.
26. “Mystery Zone” – Spoon [1-19-10}. While slightly monotonous in pitch, this track plays like a pop-hit-in-the-making from these indie rockers out of Austin, Texas.
27. “Clap Your Hands” – Sia [6-4-2010]. A pop number undercut with a dance vibe and drizzled with signature and now-seasoned vocals by beauty born in Australia, who moved to the U.K. to achieve stardom.
28. “Healing Hands” – Citizen Cope [1-19-10]. It’s been a while for Citizen Cope – but here it is – a new, mellow alt-track by Clarence Greenwood – the man & the band – out of Memphis.
29. “Symphonies” -- Dan Black (2-16-2010). Combining symphonic backbeats with careful vocals from UK’s genre-mixing Wonky Pop movement.
30. “Hold Yuh” – Gyptian [3-9-2010]. Tight, roots-minded reggae by emerging artist from St. Andrew, Jamaica. Ya, mon.
31. “As We Enter” – Nas and Damien Jr. Gong Marley [2-23-2010]. A quick-moving, tit-for-tat hip-hop mixed with reggae duet with old school background beats.
32. “Heaven’s on Fire” – The Radio Dept. [3-23-1010]. A flowing indie pop track off recent EP released by rock band out of Sweden.
33. “Alright” – Pitbull featuring Machel Montano [6-8-2010]. The latest latino-club track from the Miami rapper who teams up here with Trinadad-born rapper that will get chy’all dancin’ out on the floor.
34. “Beautiful Monster” – Ne-Yo [6-8-2010]. Another smash pop R&B hit by songwriter, arranger and vocalist from Las Vegas via Arkansas.
35. “The Kids” – B.o.B. featuring Janelle Monae [4-27-10]. Mixing alt-rock with hip-hop and a lovely cameo, this emerging pop-rapper from ATL loads this cover track of MGMT onto his first full-length album release.
36. “Odessa” – Caribou [4-20-2010]. With a 4-20 release and a trippy album cover, this is the lead track from latest album by Canadian indie-electronic band.
37. “The Gaudy Side of Town” – Gayngs [5-10-2010]. From newly formed, Minneapolis-based dance-pop collective creates R&B-infused electro-indie tracks, including this one, featuring Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon.
38. “Animal” – Neon Trees (single) [1-26-10]. An energetic single release off Island/Def Jam label rocks alternative groove with catchy, pop background and strong vocals.
39. “Who Dat “ -- J. Cole [6-4-2010]. Second big single by edgy emerging rapper (a Jay-Z find --) from North Carolina.
40. “Shake Drop on Video” – The White Panda [un-released]. Pumping dance beats, a youthful hip-hop vibe loaded with cameo raps, all charge this new single by mash-up/remix duo out of Chicago and L.A.
41. “I Will Live on Islands” – Josh Rouse [3-9-2010]. Baroque Pop with a retro-feel written by singer-songwriter, native Nebraskan and world traveler when he lived in Spain ( -- half the album is performed in Spanish!).
42. “Rocket” – Goldfrapp [3-10-2010]. With a pulsing dance beat, by signature pop rocker/keyboardist/composer out of Bath, England.
43. “On Time” – Disco Biscuits featuring tuPhace [3-16-2010] A grooving track with a disco wind by eclectic U Penn jam band.
44. “Break Your Heart” -- Taio Cruz (featuring Ludacris) [2-23-2010]. This is the third smash single from emerging pop R&B singer out of London who wrote Rihanna’s smash hit “Umbrella.”
45. “Butta Kup” – Baby Bash (3-30-10) A sugary R&B pop track that covers everything sweet to describe l’object of desire.
46. “Just You and I” – Ricky Blaze [6-1-2010]. New pop reggae from emerging young artist out of Brooklyn.
47. “Welcome Home” – Rehab [4-27-2010]. Feel-good classic rock acoustic number that makes it feel good to be heading back home (yes, from rehab) by the southern duo better known for their hip-hop tracks.
48. “Take Over the World” – Kidz in the Hall [3-9-2010]. Pop hip-hop track by new-gen MC/DJ (-- friends from UPenn --) duo out of Chicago.
49. “Aint Leavin’ without You” – Jaheim [2-5-2010]. With an upbeat, 80’s Jeffrey Osborne-like sound, Jaheim lays out power R&B soul and boudoir jams.
50. “The Night Before the Funeral” – The Mary Onettes [5-5-2010]. A snappy, upbeat indie-track off latest 2-track EP by band out of Sweden.
51. “Poison” – The All-American Rejects (3-2-2010). A pretty acoustic number with harmonized vocals in support of the new ALMOST ALICE soundtrack.
52. “Drown in the Now” – The Crystal Method featuring Matisyahu (1-19-2010). Off latest EP, a curious mix of reggae and eerie electronica re-mixes that’s emerging as a big hit on the dance floor charts.
53. “Tightrope” – Janelle Monae featuring Big Boi [2-23-2010). An upbeat, sometimes abstract, original, old school-sounding R&B track with cameo from Outkast frontman Big Boi.
54. “July Flame” – Laura Veirs [1-12-2010]. A Colorado native who now calls Portland, Oregon, home sounds a lot like a modern-day Suzanne Vega with her spare musical arrangements and lovely voice.
55. “The Cave” Mumford & Sons [2-16-2010]. UK neo-folk quartet lays out banjos and acoustic guitars for a down-home sounding rock track.
56. “Alice” – Avril Lavigne (3-2-2010). The Canadian pop sensation adds her two cents to the new Almost Alice soundtrack with some serious vocal pipes.
57. “You Look Better When I’m Drunk” – White Tie Affair [4-20-2010]. A shameless. 80’s influenced pop rock dance track from group out of Chicago that gets right to the point to say it all.
58. “California Gurls” – Katy Perry featuring Snoop Dogg (5-7-2010). The lead track from Katy’s forthcoming sophomore album is a shameless pop track glorifying California girls and their sunny lifestyles with an unlikely cameo by Snoop.
59. “Tighten Up” – The Black Keys [5-18-2010]. A good-groove alt-rock track by natives of Akron, Ohio.
60. “The Mistake” – AM Taxi [5-18-2010]. The lead single from debut album by emerging rock band out of Chicago.
61. “My First Kiss” – 3oh!3 featuring Kesha [5-4-2010]. A clap-along, jump-up-and down pop track that pairs two youthful pop sensations.
62. “Wide Eyes” -- Local Natives [2-16-2010]. A plucky debut album from an L.A. band, with ethereal and gentle harmonies influenced by Pacific Northwest sounds.
63. “Youth” – Beach Fossils [5-25-2010] The pithy lead track off their self-titled debut album features lots of easy strumming indie-guitars and distorted vocals.
64. “Window Seat”- Erykah Badu [2-9-2010]. Latest single from signature-sounding R&B earth-goddess super-songstress from forthcoming album.
65. “White Rabbit” – Grace Potter and the Nocturnals (3-2-2010). As part of the new ALMOST ALICE soundtrack, this version of the 70’s hippy-druggie classic is down with less rock and features clear, bright vocals and a trippy close.
66. “Your Love” – Nicki Minaj [2-8-2010]. Emerging R&B duet mistress out of Queens uses the backbeat and refrain to Annie Lennox’s track “No More I Love You’s” in this easy pop rap track.
67. “Driving Me Crazy” – Sam Adams [3-4-10]. A feel-good, white-boy hip-hop pop track by beloved Boston boy that is appealing to the college crowd.
68. “I’m Beamin’” – Lupe Fiasco [2-2-2010]. “See me now – just look around -- I’m beamin’” is the upbeat, up-from-the-bootstraps reverb from this single from Chicago-based Muslim MC.
69. “Get Up” – Kimberly Davis [1-12-2010]. A breakout debut single that is climbing the dance charts by R&B groove queen.
70. “Between the Lines” – Stone Temple Pilots (4-6-10). A good, old-fashioned rock track from the early harbingers of grunge.
71. “Power” – Kanye West featuring Dwele [6-1-2010]. If you’re still willing to listen to him, here’s Kanye’s latest angry rant against a more rock-oriented background.
72. “White Flag Warrior” – Flobots [3-16-2010]. A hearty alternative track that juggles indie rock with indie hip-hop by innovative seven-piece band out of Denver.
73. “Memories” – David Guetta feat. Kid Cudi [2-17-2010]. With Guetta on the club beats and Kudi handling the (repetitive) lyrics, you’ve got a dance number to rock the house.
74. “Follow Me Down” – 30H!3 featuring Neon Hitch [3-2-2010]. The alt-pop duo from Boulder releases its latest hit to be included on forthcoming ALICE IN WONDERLAND soundtrack and whose sound mixes electronica with booming rock guitar & vocals.
75. “White Sky” – Vampire Weekend [1-11-10]. This easy-going track about kicking it in Manhattan, off the follow-up to their 2008 debut, sounds very much like a nod to Paul Simon’s Graceland, mixed with Vampire’s own preppy, indie-rock.
76. “Soldier of Love” – Sade [1-12-10]. The melancholy soul singer, smoking-hot in the 80’s, with angular percussion and discordant back-up vocals.
77. “We Are One” – 12 Stones [4-6-2010]. A hearty rock anthem for the young generation off forthcoming album from band outside of New Orleans.
78. “Lewis Takes off his Shirt” -- Owen Pallett [1-12-10]. A spunky, orchestral-electronica alternative sound that mixes various sounds and vocals.
79. “A Lifeless Ordinary (Need a Little Help)” -- Motion City Soundtrack [1-15-10]. Peppy, alternative/emo-rock from major label debut by Minneapolis and Virginia who rock big guitar and pop vibrato hooks.
80. “Angel Echoes” – Four Tet [1-26-1010]. Experimental, down-tempo track undertaken as side-project by Brit Kieren Hebden.
81. “Armada Latina” – Cypress Hill featuring Marc Antony and Pitbull [3-2-2010). A remix of the cult 70’s CSNY hippy classic with a twist of hip-hop and a dash of south of the border fiesta.
82. “Stylo” – Gorillaz [1-26-2010]. The lead track from their forthcoming album scheduled to drop in March features a distinctly electronica vibe with equally distinctive vocals by the self-conceived “fist virtual hip-hop” band.
83. “Fall Hard’ – Shout Out Louds [2-23-10]. Airy, sleek guitar and vocals from proud indie-rock neo-cons out of Stockholm.
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