Young Fathers - No Way

A: Young Fathers
S: No Way
C: No Way - Single

This song has a pace and a spirit which is impossible to ignore. I'm not sure whether it makes me want to make love or war, and I like it that way. Some call it pussy, I call it kitten ...

... it all depends on how it’s written.

Hannah Diamond - Pink And Blue

A: Hannah Diamond
S: Pink And Blue
C: Pink And Blue - Single

This song might make your skin crawl on first listen but there is something almost clinical about her vocals which is totally compelling. After triple-figure play counts, I can say that I like Hannah.

... I don't need more time.

Raury - God’s Whisper

A: Raury
S: God’s Whisper
C: God’s Whisper - Single

100 years from now, should people want to know what the music of the 2010s stood for, this one track by a 17 year from East Atlanta may just tell that story perfectly. Lord have mercy on the ignorant youth.

... I won't compromise.

Ariana Grande Feat. Iggy Azalea - Problem

A: Ariana Grande Feat. Iggy Azalea
S: Problem
C: Problem - Single

Ariana’s Mariah Carey impression + some light En Vogue references + a glorious saxophone riff = your bubblegum anthem for 2014. It is your not-so-dark horse. Don't fight it. Seriously, don't.

... I got one less problem without ya.

tUnE-yArDs - Water Fountain

A: tUnE-yArDs
S: Water Fountain
C: Water Fountain - Single

The clatter of the beat! The monophonic synth line! The “Woohaw” yelp! Pop music should always be able to transcend place or background and this song is that manages that in glowing technicolor.

... nothing much to do when you're going nowhere.

Golden Suits - You Can’t Make Your Mind Up

A: Golden Suits
S: You Can’t Make Your Mind Up
C: Golden Suits

Fred Nicolaus is known to most as half of Department of Eagles, but his Golden Suits release deserves loud praise. This track is a simmering mood rouser with an unbelievably effective chorus.

... it doesn't get easier the longer you go.

Frànçois & The Atlas Mountains - La Vérité

A: Frànçois & The Atlas Mountains
S: La Vérité
C: La Vérité - Single

Let's go French. Whilst this track can appear a little hipster-by-numbers, what with the French lyrics, chugging tambourine and swelling organs, it nevertheless deserves serious attention this summer season.

... la vérité, tu ne la connais pas.