The top 20 songs of 2023.

20

The National – Smoke Detector

The National’s most intense song to date, “Smoke Detector”, seeps and twists, delving deep into lead singer Matt Berninger’s troubled mind after his breakdown. It combines the band’s signature elements – sharp guitar riffs from “High Violet”, Berninger’s trademark poetic lyrics, and the relentless drive for self-improvement from “Alligator” – but also marks a significant artistic progression. Originally conceived during a soundcheck, the song appears steady with its repeated refrain, but is filled with intriguing details that convey a sense of instability, mirroring the heightened awareness that often accompanies depression. It is unrestrained, raw, and urgent, a haunting expression of despair as Berninger desperately searches for a glimmer of hope.

19

Boygenius is not sufficiently powerful.

Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus, known as the “three graces” for their emotional depth and insight, achieved their greatest success yet with this melodic pop-rock anthem. The song was nominated for three Grammy awards in 2024, including Record of the Year. The lyrics, “I don’t know why I am the way I am,” are relatable to many disaffected individuals, while “always an angel, never a god” could easily be chanted in an arena setting – which is likely to happen soon. However, the trio’s songwriting also showcases specific details, such as clocks displaying different times on kitchen appliances, adding a novelistic touch that speaks volumes about the distracted person living in that space. Written by Ben Beaumont-Thomas.

18

Hudson Mohawke and Nikki Nair collaborate on the song “Set the Roof,” featuring Tayla Parx.

Nikki Nair, a US music producer, refines Hudson Mohawke’s intense and extravagant sound on the title track of their joint EP. The song, a jittery 2-step beat, is elevated by Tayla Parx’s unique high-pitched vocals and then tightened to perfection by HudMo’s intense production techniques. The deep bass sounds that emerge in the latter half of the song bring to mind the playfulness of Mr Oizo, adding a cheeky twist to the already daring track.

17

Miley Cyrus – Flowers

Following the moderate success of her album Plastic Hearts in 2020, Cyrus’s single about being single, produced by Harry Styles’ trusted duo Kid Harpoon and Tyler Johnson, has become her biggest hit yet. It spent 10 weeks at No. 1 in the UK and eight weeks in the US, and has been streamed over 1.6 billion times on Spotify. The release of the single on her ex-husband’s birthday in January added to the gossip surrounding it, and its lyrics about self-love resonated with many who were making tearful new year resolutions. However, its widespread popularity can also be attributed to its perfectly crafted vocal melody, which feels almost miraculous in its originality.

16

Sampha – Spirit 2.0

In the six years since his first album was released, Sampha has made appearances on songs alongside famous artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Stormzy, and Solange. This has solidified the talented British songwriter’s place in the mainstream music industry. However, on his highly anticipated return, he emphasizes the importance of close relationships and finding spiritual support by spending time with those who know you best. This can mean simply riding in a car with friends, engaging in casual conversation and sharing personal struggles while driving through the countryside. Blending elements of neo-soul, jazz, and breakbeat, Spirit 2.0 is a lively and intricately rhythmic song that showcases the rejuvenating effects of quality time spent with loved ones. Aneesa Ahmed

15

You

The band Young Fathers released a track titled “I Saw You.”

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The Scottish band created a cleverly satirical song with elements of glam rock and military marching. The chorus, “I saw what I saw / I keep on walking the line,” pokes fun at those who ignore immoral actions and are intimidated by authority. However, there are also dissenting voices in the song, declaring, “don’t forget I’m not vulnerable to your foolishness!” In the end, a childlike chant overtakes everything with its victorious plea for resistance: “Brush your teeth, wash your face, run away!” BBT

14

This text cannot be reworded.

After the success of their 2022 album Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You, American folk-rock band released another highly praised song. The song features Dylan-inspired verses that lead into a catchy chorus where lead singer Adrianne Lenker expresses the chaotic nature of a toxic relationship referenced in the title. The couple’s intimacy quickly turns to apathy as they continuously push and pull each other like magnets. Lenker describes it as “trying to start a fire with matches in the snow / Where you can’t seem to hold me, can’t seem to let me go.” BBT

13

Jorja Smith – Little Things

The song “Little Things” by Jorja Smith has a relaxed and carefree vibe. She simply wants to have one night of fun and if it turns into something more, then that’s okay. The upbeat UK funky piano adds an unpredictable element to the song, while her dancehall-influenced vocals are delivered with a nonchalant attitude and a tough exterior. This creates a sound reminiscent of a mix between Amy Winehouse’s carefree style and Katy B’s energetic performances. However, in the bridge of the song, Smith’s voice shows a real sense of longing and the piano takes on a darker tone, unraveling her cool facade.

12

“Speed Drive” by Charli XCX

Over the course of her music career, Charli XCX has explored different genres ranging from industrial to pop. However, one theme that remains constant in her music is her love for speeding in fast cars, as shown through her lyrics. This theme is especially evident in her contribution to the soundtrack for Greta Gerwig’s film Barbie, where she provides a rebellious twist on Toni Basil’s Mickey with Vroom Vroom. So let’s hit the road and enjoy the ride! LS

11

What was my purpose in life according to Billie Eilish?

ounds like the deepest song on the Barbie OST was a gentle piano ballad that addressed the disillusionment of the Barbie doll and fame, and how it can create conflicting feelings. Billie Eilish, who is familiar with this subject, sings about feeling like she’s not real and just a product of fame. Her high-pitched voice and the subtle use of string instruments add to the sense of disconnect and fading away from her old identity.

10

Lankum – Go Dig My Grave

Lankum’s rendition of the classic Go Dig My Grave, which spans nine minutes, evokes a somber funeral atmosphere as if it were coming from beneath freshly dug earth. Their performance is a remarkable display of oppressive horror, with the weight of their sorrowful whistles and unearthly drones crushing one’s chest. Radie Peat’s otherworldly control over her voice, resembling bagpipes in their loudness and swift transitions between notes, effectively portrays the intense sorrow of a young woman who tragically takes her own life. The emotions she conveys are almost unbearable, as if her skin is stretched too tightly. This release stands out from any other music released this year, with its desolate, harsh, and unique qualities.

9

Central Cee and Dave collaborate on “Sprinter”.

As it approaches 500 million plays on Spotify, with a large portion of those coming from listeners around the globe, this song has put to rest any doubts about UK rap being limited to trivial topics like beans on toast. Accompanied by a flamenco-inspired acoustic guitar melody, co-produced by Jim Legxacy, each rapper delivers clever double entendres and impressive rhymes, trying to outdo one another. Their fortunes hilariously fluctuate – one moment they’re packing their van with groupies, the next Dave’s girlfriend has left him for P Diddy, and Central Cee is guarding his DMs from prying eyes. “Before I give you my Instagram password, I’ll give you the pin to my American Express card!” BBT

8

Yaeji – For Granted

In these uncertain times, the song For Granted by Korean-American producer Yaeji captures the feeling of hurrying and anxiety through its sweet yet sombre lyrics, set to a backdrop of lively percussion and strong basslines. Drawing from the drum’n’bass genre, it embodies a classically British sound, similar to tracks by artists like Kenya Grace and PinkPantheress. However, Yaeji adds her own unique spin to the track, creating an emotive journey with her lyrics that mirror the erratic and disjointed sounds. Eventually, she sings about letting go and finding peace in the present moment, as the beats shift into a fast-paced sequence of jungle drums and deep basslines.

7

Can we agree that Olivia Rodrigo’s songs “Vampire” and “Bad Idea” have a similar theme?

Olivia Rodrigo’s second album, Guts, was accompanied by Vampire, a fiery mix of ballad and rock opera that follows a similar theme as her hit song Drivers License. The song serves as a powerful attack against a “fame fucker,” who has now realized the repercussions of crossing someone with such a wide reach. While Rodrigo’s previous album Sour focused on feeling wronged, Guts also showcases her embracing misbehavior and finding joy in being the instigator. The track Bad Idea Right?, which was tied with Vampire in our critics’ vote, is a playful escapade that leads straight back to an ex’s bed, disregarding the consequences. With a lively new wave sound reminiscent of artists like Toni Basil and the Waitresses, it becomes impossible to resist rebellion. LS

6

Blur – The Narcissist

Damon Albarn’s latest single reflects on his journey from his bedroom to performing in stadiums, while also acknowledging the negative effects of fame on his ego and sense of self. Alex James, known for his celebrity wine project, provides a powerful bassline, while Graham Coxon and Dave Rowntree’s contributions create a sense of friends jamming together in the moment.

5

Troye Sivan – Rush

After his long-term relationship ended, Troye Sivan ventured into Melbourne’s gay clubs and embraced a wild, carefree lifestyle. He has shared that this experience helped him let loose, which is reflected in the lead single from his third album. The song strays from the polished sophistication of his previous hits and instead opts for a raucous good time. The lively house beat evokes memories of a sunny day and continues on endlessly, mirroring a never-ending night. Sivan playfully dances around the beat, his voice agile and slightly distorted, hinting at the euphoria to come. In the verses, he admires and flirts with his new love interest, exclaiming “Kiss it when you’re done, man, this is so much fun,” a sensory experience that makes him want to shout it from the rooftops. And in the chorus, he leads a lively chant that could easily be heard in a men’s locker room, proudly embracing non-traditional gender roles and advocating for a more physical connection.

4

Kylie Minogue – Padam Padam

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Kylie ignited a padam-ic with a clever use of onomatopoeia, mimicking a racing heartbeat. The term “padam” quickly became part of everyday language, much like how Italians use “prego.” This trend showcases the enduring appeal of pop music, and it was refreshing to hear Kylie return to modern dance-pop instead of relying on nostalgia like she did in her previous two albums. The deep bassline adds a distinctly 2020s touch to the song. By using a subtle filter on her vocals, Kylie sounds like a cyborg searching for a human partner in a nightclub. In the chorus, her slightly menacing delivery highlights her often overlooked dramatic talent.

3

NewJeans – Super Shy

Many K-pop artists are using the familiar thunderous trap or light funk sound, but it has become stale with the rise of girl group NewJeans and other open-minded artists like Aespa and Fifty Fifty. Super Shy, on the other hand, brings a fresher sound reminiscent of a lightly spritzed bushel of mint. The song was co-written by 4AD’s avant-pop star Erika de Casier and the production blends elements of liquid drum’n’bass, UK garage, and Jersey club – all popular in pop music this year. However, the vocal hook stands out as it is straight from pop heaven. While the lyrics express feelings of shyness, the delivery suggests a cute and flirtatious demeanor.

2

PinkPantheress and Ice Spice collaborate on “Boy’s a Liar Pt 2.”

The original version of this song was already nearly perfect when it was released in November 2022. However, the addition of Ice Spice’s remix brought a new element of saltiness to the sweetness of the song. This elevated the pop track to the level of a Michelin-starred chef’s kiss. The production has a charmingly lo-fi quality, with melodic sounds reminiscent of old flip-phone ringtones. Each vocalist shares a common experience: being in love with someone who damages their self-esteem, but they can’t stop thinking about them. Ice Spice’s performance stands out, using wordless vocalizations and emotive lyrics to convey the desire and vulnerability felt towards this person.

1

Lana Del Rey – A&W

“I am a royal, I am polarizing / Ask me the reason, reason, reason for my demeanor,” Lana Del Rey exclaims in a high-pitched, piercing voice on A&W, reminiscent of a dramatic character from a Cassavetes film suffocating in a cloud of makeup. Haunted and simmering, the striking standout track from Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd has Del Rey examining this very question, one that has followed her since the beginning as critics labeled her as inauthentic. A&W suggests that after enduring years of relentless criticism, one may just succumb and embody the image others have painted of them.

A&W may be known as a root beer brand, but in this context it represents “American whore”. This provocative phrase, often used by Del Ray, will likely offend those who are turned off by her trademark combination of American culture, sexuality, and capitalism. The main character, who has been abandoned by her mother and mistreated by men, has resigned herself to a nihilistic attitude towards love and seeks out emotionless encounters on the middle floors of average hotels. While she has been forced into this lifestyle, she also realizes that it is a trap. Her delivery of the lyrics, filled with cold anger and disbelief, only emphasizes the gravity of her situation.

According to A&W, the biggest obstacle for women is simply being born female. They are destined to lose their innocence, abandon carefree activities like cartwheels, and inhabit a body that is seen as both something to be owned and a potential danger. Del Rey emphasizes this by drawing attention to her physical appearance, including her hair, face, and body shape. She has faced criticism for her muscular physique, which has evolved over time due to her powerlifting hobby. This serves as a reminder of the immense pressure and suffering that society has placed on her.

The song, which lasts for seven minutes, is an impressive combination of distorted guitar, moody piano, and fuzzy debris. It evokes the feeling of a body stretching and luxuriating in its own unique way, defying traditional expectations. Despite being pushed and pulled by men, critics, and society, Del Rey’s true self shines through in her delightfully bizarre and unconventional music. In the middle of the song, there is a sudden shift to a bratty and playful trap beat as she teases a lover under the influence of drugs. This section may remind listeners of her criticized album Born to Die, but it is strangely brilliant nonetheless. Whatever the reason may be for Del Rey’s unconventional nature, there is no denying that there is no one else quite like her. LS

Source: theguardian.com