This isn't a definitive list, and I may definitely have forgotten some tracks; but here are 30 favourites of mine from the last twelve months. You can find the Youtube playlist here. The Spotify playlist is here.
Her Ghost- Woman's Hour
Swooning, dreamy soundscapes from Woman's Hour. From the 2014 album Conversations highlighting their sound to best effect.
A Simple Beautiful Truth- Wild Beasts
A cracking little ditty from Kendal's finest. Possibly could be considered a "pop song".
Desire- Anna Calvi
I have already declared my love for Anna Calvi on other pages. A sumptuous record.
Love Letters- Metronomy
The most toe-tapping, joyous song of the decade so far. I can't quite tell you how happy this song makes me feel.
Birth in Reverse- St Vincent
Head turned towards Annie Clark in 2014. The only time St Vincent stood still this year was to perform.
Who Do You Love- Kindness (feat. Robyn)
It leaps, bounds, trips and does a roly-poly over itself, and yet still manages to win a place in your heart.
Let Me Down Gently- La Roux
Lets talk about how good La Roux is. With no hype or hullabaloo, this song walked onto my playlists, and probably shall never leave.
Just One of the Guys- Jenny Lewis
Consistently excellent records from Jenny- possibly her most commercial to date- with a little help from her famous friends.
Holy City- Joan as Policewoman
With such a rich distinctive vocal, one cannot exclude Joan Wasser.
Happy Idiot- TV On the Radio
Not just included because Karen Gillan is in the video. A grower much like a beanstalk.
My Desire- Interpol
My goodness, I have missed my slice of Interpol. Paul Banks' vocal is so well delivered here, it is like he is sitting next to me singing.
Staircase at the University- Morrissey
Back to form, back on song, and back with a vengeance. "If you don't get three A's!..." Lyrically it is compelling listening.
Clear Skies Ever Closer- Cherry Ghost
Simon Aldred has the uncanny ability to write a song which immediately conjures up memories of nostalgia.
Oh! Whiskey- Jimi Goodwin
"Please don't give me the blues". Jimi Goodwin's gentle tale causing no blues upon hearing this.
Argent- Jane Weaver
Incredibly listenable track. Rumbling along at a tempo and you're suddenly encapsulated in the record.
Anonymous Club- Courtney Barnett
It is hard to explain who or what Courtney Barnett is. Her records do not really adhere to any rules.
Looking For Someone- East India Youth
Requires a listen at top volume without any distractions. Exponentially became one of my favourites.
Keep It Healthy- Warpaint
Slightly askew, slightly hazy, slightly off centre, yet ever so slightly compelling.
Luna- Bombay Bicycle Club
Again and again, the BBC make a record full of danceable grooves and stunning melodic harmonies.
My Sad Captains- Elbow
Guy Garvey at his hearty best. Rising and falling in harmony with Garvey's delivery.
Can't Do Without You- Caribou
Hear it loud and it is another animal. Skipping along like a gazelle, full of resonance and beat.
Swimming Pool- Emmy the Great
A soft, smart, and touching record.
Strange Weather- Anna Calvi and David Byrne
A spellbinding cover of Keren Ann, which may creep you out in a darkened room.
Pleasure- Baxter Dury
Oddly wonderful record from Baxter. Tipping the surreal into song.
Archie, Marry Me- Alvvays
Distinctively standing out. It is not clear whether Archie said yes or no.
You Are Not Alone- Cathal Smyth
A wonderfully deft piece of music. Cathal's straining vocal; along with the haunting harmonies are just perfect.
Zombie- Jamie T
Is it punk? Is it pop? Without a doubt; it is really, really good. Driving guitars, driving drums, a cracking return from Jamie Treays.
Month of Sundays- Metronomy
Listen to the bass. A brilliant bass with legs and feet, and not afraid to use them.
Exorcise- Gazelle Twin
Appearing to freak out the subconscious, and succeeding most definitely.
Johnny and Mary- Todd Terje (feat. Bryan Ferry)
Some songs take you completely by surprise. A mighty collaboration and a fine cover.
Digital Witness- St Vincent
Summarising the world we now live in, St Vincent at her very best.
Ex Hex- Waterfall
A great piece of rock and roll in under three minutes.
Are there any I've missed completely? Let me know. What are your favourite songs from 2014?
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