Uh......not these guys no........
So far I have served you 100 of these tracks, and just when you thought you couldn't take any more goodness, I will now serve you the next 30 songs on my list. Starting from number 50, we will make the journey up to number 21 for this instalment. And finally next weekend, I will present to you all....THE FINAL 20!!!!!!
So without further ado, here are tracks 50 to 21. Enjoy.........
50-21
50. Justice - D.A.N.C.E. (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sy1dYFGkPUE&ob=av2n: Every so often a really fun dance track comes along and its joyful goodness blows your mind. French electronica duo Justice succeed in delivering this feeling by dishing out their signature song. The cutesy vocals really top off this glorious fun track.
49. Britney Spears - Toxic (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOZuxwVk7TU&ob=av2e: 'First you have Nickelback, then Lady Gaga, and now BRITNEY SPEARS? WTF is the matter with you man?'. As I mentioned in the Nickelback entry, even hack musicians can have an awesome song. One of only two decent songs by Brit (the other being 'Hit Me Baby One More Time'), Miss Spears' breathy vocals accompanies a punchy Bollywood style strings arrangement and a jazzy beat. This is pop at its absolute best, and its a shame the rest of the pop industry can't produce original material like this. Listen out for the surf guitar throughout the song, it sounds almost too good to be true.
48. Missy Elliott - Work It (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOZuxwVk7TU&ob=av2e: Missy is living proof that the ladies can get down and lay down a phat hip hop beat much like their male counterparts. Off the acclaimed album Under Construction, Work It provides a dandy hip hop beat with bustin' rhymes by Missy. This would be the most hilarious dating video in history if this were put on RSVP. And FYI, the next line after 'I put my thing down, flip it and reverse it' is this sentence sung in reverse. And we all though Missy was possessed for three seconds.......
47. Lil Wayne - A Milli (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8Uhn-dU3Gg: I must warn you before proceeding to watch the Youtube video, you will have the drone of 'A Milli, A Milli, A Milli, A Milli' ingrained in your mind for quite some time. This has a pumping bass line that is dynamic enough to wake the dead, and Wayne produces some slick rhymes to accompany the drone and booming bass. Who needs huge production values and lots of sampling when this minimalist arrangement can be accomplished?
46. Eagles of Death Metal - Cherry Cola (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmkSeIuPJ4g: These garage rockers flaunt their magic once again in their second entry in this list. What more is there to say about this rockin' groove down? Crunching guitars, groovin' bass lines, good drumming, and babes drenched in a red soft drink in the music video. This is the ultimate male fantasy wrapped up in a quick time of 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
45. Gorillaz - DARE (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAOR6ib95kQ&ob=av2e: Since when did cartoon bands become so edgy and versatile? Forget bands like The Archies from the 1960s who sang lovey dovey ballads about sugar and honey, Damon Albarn's (of Blur fame) 'virtual band' Gorillaz sound oh so fresh. This second single off their second album Demon Days has this 'group' energising us fellow listeners with an almost retro sounding hip hop/dance number. Sure Feel Good Inc was good as well, but DARE is infinitely more entertaining to listen to.
44. Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Maps (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIIxlgcuQRU&ob=av2n: This is essentially an unconventional love ballad about lead singer Karen O's relationship with Liars frontman Angus Andrew. But don't let this description throw you off, there's no cheesy sentimentality to be heard throughout the entire track. Karen O yearns to see Andrew once again, and this track sounds so glitzy that it sounds like glitter has been thrown onto the speakers with the edgy guitar work and pounding drums. This band went on to become very successful in the alternative music scene, and we are glad this was the case.
43. Foo Fighters - Low (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySlZdASmGCM&ob=av2e: While Times Like These and All My Life may have been more well known tracks off the album One by One, Low is the underrated third single off this album. The creepy guitar work and different pace is so unconventional for the Fooeys that it is unbelievably enjoyable to listen to. The music video is a strange yet appropriate match with the song. If you have ever wanted to see Grohl or Jack Black in a dress, now is your chance.
42. Gotye - Learnalilgivinanlovin (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkONn8tadp4: If you wanted the perfect song to wake up to every morning, then this sunny Motown-esque track by this Belgian-Australian artist is the one. This man has released nothing but outstanding tunes since his debut album, and this song that I cannot be bothered to spell out is the shot in the arm that you need when you are upset. This masterpiece concludes with a groovy drum fill to really get you to sit upright in bed in the morning. Amen for music like this.
41. Eskimo Joe - Black Fingernails, Red Wine (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBJnRyVXeo4&ob=av2n: Speaking of talented Australian artists, these Perthians had the audacity to go one better from their previous album, resulting in a thumping opening single off the album of the same name. The music video represented a transition from a carefree alt rock band to a serious adult contemporary outfit. This was my favourite song of the year 2006, and you will understand why when you hear it.
40. Basement Jaxx - Good Luck (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO9I61gYlms: You would be forgiven if you thought that Aretha Franklin was providing amazing vocals for this hit single by this British electronic duo. Lisa Kekaula's soulful vocals will leave you in awe, and Jaxx have managed to create a groovy dance number heavily influenced by old school RnB and Motown. Good luck trying to dispute all of this.
39. Cog - Run (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJNjyKnK2W4: Easily the shortest spelt title by the shortest spelt band, these Sydney alt rockers lull you with a sense of calm during the verses, with the drone of 'IIIIIII-I-I-IIIIII-I-III, I want, youuuuu' driving through the speakers. But just when you think the calm will continue after the second verse, out come the chugging guitars and anticipating drums, resulting in a clusterfuck of sound which will have all of your senses engaged.
38. Daft Punk - Robot Rock (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFZjqVnWBhc&ob=av2e: Usually Daft Punk will slowly get into the crust of a track. however within three seconds the pumping drums and synth correlate and turn into a non stop melodic electro calamity of epic proportions. Guitars, synth, drums and bass all play a key part in this track, and Daft once again makes you get up and jive to this sensational instrumental number.
37. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Weapon Of Choice (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94c7fdAxTas&ob=av2n: For those who do not listen to Triple J, yes this song was off one of the Guitar Hero games a few years back.......American rockers BRMC chant their views on freedom and liberation from suppression, and the catchy chorus is sure to fire up your senses. This rock track is the shizz, please get it now if you do not have it.
36. Arcade Fire - No Cars Go (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83KR_UBWdPI: While I'm copping it from teenyboppers about why not enough pop is not on here, I am being hounded by hipsters as to why their favourite underground band that are so edgy that they haven't even formed aren't on here. Well here you go hipsters: this is a soaring indie tune about yearning to be in paradise (either that or it's about a guy stuck in traffic). Canadian hipsters Arcade Fire breath a lot of enthusiasm in this song, and the combined male and female vocal duo is sumblime to say the least.
35. Bloc Party - Banquet (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdkmhquF60o: By now you may be aware that the 2000s was a perfect outlet for aspiring indie bands to produce music and deliver them to our bored ears. This English post punk band is no exception to the rule. Bloc Party introduce us to the standard jangly guitars and melodic drum beats, so sit back and enjoy this feast the BP have to offer.
34. Grinspoon - Lost Control (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSkd6HJThlo: Compared to fellow Aussie rockers The Vines, Grinspoon has about 5 or so years more experience in the game. They have rocked it ever since they emerged as Unearthed Triple J winners in the 1990s, and Spoon tear it up in style with this overdriven track. This is sure to let you loose and headbang in your bedroom, bathroom, study or garage pretty much from start to finish.
33. Incubus - Wish You Were Here (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8295rOMvtQI&ob=av2n: How this American band faded into obscurity I will never know. In 2001 Incubus released what would be their magnum opus album, Morning View, and out of it came a few singles. The best one was definitely this one. According to frontman Brandon Boyd, Wish You Were Here 'captures the serenity and comradery of the band's summer experience with blissful melody and shimmering instrumentation. And who can not forget record scratching that is included? Most of the time it doesn't work, but on here it's very appropriate.
32. Arctic Monkeys - I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor (2005): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pK7egZaT3hs&ob=av2e: If bangin' tunes and DJ sets are your favourite pasttimes, then this sizzling debut by these now popular British indie rock group is your cup of English Breakfast tea. The track is chocka block with innuendos and 1980s pop culture references, and Alex Turner and his rag tag bunch of indie slickers will have you dancing to electro pop like it's 1984.
31. Kanye West - Jesus Walks (2004): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYF7H_fpc-g&ob=av2e: That muthafuckin' fishstick lovin' genius is at it once again on this influential (wishful thinking) countdown. Mr West recounts his unabashed faith in God with the backing of a mid tempo hip hop beat and chanting choir, coupled with a rolling drumbeat to intensify the gospel according to Kanye. If this is the way of the church and its teachings in the near future, then sign me up.
30. Birds Of Tokyo - Broken Bones (2007): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5p4OS-iqgU: Ian Kenny's more rock orientated Perth group Birds of Tokyo provide a more easy listening type of music compared to the niche stylings of alternative metalists Karnivool. Kenny delivers a heart wrenching diatribe on love lost, and his band support him immensely with harmonic soaring guitars and booming basslines and drums. BOT should be proud for creating such a strong track off an equally strong second album, Universes.
29. Queens Of The Stone Age - No One Knows (2002): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s88r_q7oufE&ob=av2n: For pure rock enthusiasts, QOTA broke open the doors of rock music in the late 90s with their original stuttery guitar riffs and down and dirty melodies. A few years later, they released their critically acclaimed third album, Songs For The Deaf, and their lead single was so accessible and original, even pop loving Backstreet Boys adoring teenyboppers were secretly buying the single and/or album and flailing around to this signature hit. And once again, Nirvana/Foo Fighters/nearly every band in the last 15 years member Dave Grohl assisted on the drums. That man never takes no for an answer, but in a good way there's no problem with that.
28. The Black Keys - Your Touch (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKXlgISd3iA&ob=av2e: Now from going to easily accessible to very niche (at the time), this Ohio blues rock duo were rockin' the alternative scene with pre-Lonely Boy ditties like this one. The song is featured in some TV shows and a couple of movies, in particular Entourage and Zombieland respectively, The Keys prove that all you need is a distorted electric guitar and a drum kit to create a dynamic tune about longing for someone's 'touch'. Luckily the boys still produce great music despite the fact that their single Lonely Boy is popular on radio.
27. Empire Of The Sun - Walking On A Dream (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eimgRedLkkU&ob=av2n: Who would like another supergroup joke similar to the Audioslave one a few posts back? OK......what do you get when you cross the lead singer of Australian dream rockers The Sleepy Jackson and the lead singer of Aussie electro group Pnau? This short lived but widely acclaimed electro duo, and this highly successful dreamy electro pop track. You can't help but laugh when you watch these two do poses in slow motion to the backdrop of gorgeous Shanghai. I hope they release new material in the future.
26. Eminem - Stan (2000) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOMhN-hfMtY : Everyone has heard news and read about that one obsessed fan who puts everything to the side to try and get in touch with their favourite artist, actor or sports star. They even go to the lengths of dressing and talking like their idols. Marshall Mathers really brings this concept home with this very tragic story of a crazed Eminem fan named Stan, who ends up meeting an unfortunate end with his pregnant girlfriend (played by British songstress Dido in the music video) as he never received a response from three letters sent, which did not get to Eminem due to numerous circumstances. I have included the link to the long version of the song as the radio version does not do this hip hop masterpiece justice.
25. Daft Punk - Harder Better Faster Stronger (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAjR4_CbPpQ&ob=av2e: Daft Punk........can these electroheads do something other than make catchy and terrific house tunes? Bouncy 80s esque synths, shiny guitars, supportive percussion, and vocoder driven vocals combine together in a blender to create this masterful tune. While this is no lyrical odyssey (but seriuosly, why do Punk needs deep lyrics?), this will be sure to get you bouncing off the walls with a glass of raspberry cordial in one hand and a handful of Maltesers in the other.
24. Jay Z - 99 Problems (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1ZObiu6kRU&feature=fvst: What, so infulential hip hop artists have more problems in life other than which bling to wear and which hoes to bang? Inconceivable. Jay Z tells a tale about dealing with a redneck racist policeman, those devilish rap critics, and dealing with an aggressor. With help from producer Rick Rubin, this story is laid down with a guitar riff and a stripped down beat. Some of you people may not agree with this on the list, but I've got 99 problems and the trolls ain't one, hit me!
23. The Presets - My People (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZe9YxJNs48&ob=av2e: Unbeknownst to many listeners, this signature tune by Sydney dance duo The Presets is a story about the unity of asylum seekers locked in a detention centre. To the majority it was about 'being with all of my people, nah nah nah' or something of that nature. The song's crazy energetic beat is what most listeners like about this track, and it's a shame that this song was not adopted by Kevin Rudd when contesting the election against the refugee hating John Howard in the 2007 election. Kudos once again to Triple J for bringing this group to the masses.
22. M.I.A. - Paper Planes (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewRjZoRtu0Y&ob=av2e: According to Sri Lankan-British lady rapper M.I.A., this song was written due to the frustration faced when trying to obtain a visa to the US of A to promote her first album and also do a tour. The chorus is one of the most bad ass ones you will ever here, and it is not recommended to have this blasting through your headphones will lining up to pay for your groceries at your nearest Woolies. It is even cooler in the fact that The Clash members Paul Simonone and Joe Strummer helped write the track.
21. Modest Mouse - Float On (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTAud5O7Qqk&ob=av2e: What better way to finish the first 130 songs of my countdown than with this grand indie tune by this grand American band. The band provide a positive aspect on the way that life should be viewed. Sure shit happens to people all the time, but we all 'float on' in the game of life anyway. If only everyone thought this way. The music video confused the shit out of many people not familiar with them as Franz Ferdinand released their tune 'Take Me Out' with a similar video around this time.
Well how about that, we only have 20 songs left on the countdown!!! My blog next week will feature the 20 best tracks on this list. If you wish to review songs 101-51 again, please feel free to visit my previous blogs. Until then, I will see you next week for the grand finale :).
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