My Top 150 Songs of the 2000s - The Final 20

Well, well, well, look what we have here. After 3 parts and 1 bonus blog in the last month and a half, we have finally reached the Top 20 songs of the last decade! So far in the journey we have delved into different musical genres that defined the last decade. Some of you may wholeheartedly agree about the inclusion of some tracks, while some of you may disagree which is OK. But let me remind you that this is a personal list, not a reflection of 2000s music to the general populace.

It has been an absolute pleasure taking you all back to what was a momentous era in human history. I have looked into the stats of the global audience who viewed my blogs, and I am amazed that so many people from all ends of the globe have viewed it. Before I wrap this series up I would like to sincerely thank all of my global readers for reading my blog series, and I hope you enjoy the last instalment of what I think are the twenty best songs to be released in the 2000s.



So without further ado, with the aide of the usual Youtube links to the music videos, and for the second time in as many blogs, thumbnails of the single covers included to make it look more significant, I present to you.......THE FINAL 20!!!!!!!!

20 to 1

20. Eminem - The Real Slim Shady (2000)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJO5HU_7_1w&ob=av2e: That white hip hop artist from downtown Detroit has found himself in this illustrous countdown again for the second time. In contrast to the serious tone of Stan, this comedic hip hop track pokes fun at all aspects of early 2000s pop culture, taking the piss out of celebrities and icons like Tom Green, Christina Aguilera, the Grammys and Britney Spears, as well as manufactured pop music at the time. Mathers does not hold back with the criticism, and the support of a bouncy bassline, sneaky keyboards and zany sampling lay the foundations for a silly yet enjoyable song. I best check my onion rings when I go to Hungry Jack's (Burger King for people outside of Oz) next time.

19. Basement Jaxx - Where's Your Head At (2001)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNsyaG_rTzE&feature=fvst: The drone of 'Where's your head attttt, a-a-a-a-at?' kicks off what is to be a bouncy house tune by these talented Brits. A lot of people remember this track mostly for the music video, which in itself is as off kilter as the music, but you can't help having a smile on your face everytime you hear it. Whether it is the monkey people jamming maniacally on instruments that come to mind when the drone springs up in the chorus, or that pudgy bloke also in the video who meets his animalistic fate, Jaxx have conjured up a beaut dance track that is sure to engage the senses.

18. The Temper Trap - Fader (2009)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPPdetZTOx0&ob=av2n: These Melbourne turned London dream rockers wowed the socks off everyone upon release of their debut album, firstly making airwaves on Triple J in 2008 with their first single Sweet Disposition (number 150 on this countdown), followed by the commercial crowd about a year later. Fader is one of those melodic pop rock numbers that sticks with you the moment the wooing chorus blasts through the airwaves and into your cranium. This band can do no wrong, and Fader showed that the boys could belt out a highly accessible hit. This band rocks my socks, and after hearing this you will know why. This is the best song of the year 2009.

17. Daft Punk - One More Time (2000)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGBhQbmPwH8&ob=av2e: That's right ladies and gentlemen, these acclaimed French house kings have done it again for the fourth time, this time landing a track in the top 20. Words cannot describe the sheer sensation that arises when hearing this synth laden track. Vocodered vocals, shiny guitars, thumping drums, you name it, Punk have thrown it in. The iconic music video is a sequel to Harder Better Faster Stronger, showing these anime cyborg characters jazzing up a storm before being invaded by creatures from another galaxy. Sit back, relax and enjoy this cosmic journey into Happyland. You know you want to.

16. Beyonce Feat. Jay Z - Crazy In Love (2003)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViwtNLUqkMY: Ohhhhhh aren't they such a cute couple? Mrs Z and Mr Knowles team up to create a sensationally delightful RnB/soul number. Beyonce shows why she was (and still is to a degree) one of the most sought after pop artists in the music industry. Her voice resonates to the boppy percussion and the horn section in the chorus, sampled from The Chi-Lites' 1970s song Are You My Woman (Tell Me So). Jay Z brings the track home with his rap bridge before wifey finishes it off with a stunning bridge of her own and a booming concluding chorus. This is dancy RnB at its finest.

15. MGMT - Kids (2008)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fe4EK4HSPkI&ob=av2e: Described by a music critic as a 'noisy New Order-style synth jam', these Connecticut neo-psychedelic indie poppers pay a crunching homage to the great joys and the inevitable lows of childhood. All the band ask for is to live life when you're young and enjoy the time you have until you go out into the big wide world alone to set up your life. Sometimes we should all take a leaf out this book. Ironically, some of the quirky looking Muppet like characters and left of centre imagery in the video may give children nightmares upon first viewing. Nonetheless, the song is a joy to the ears.

14. The Knife - Heartbeats (2003)
  
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcv3v6XfEvM: No no no, I am not talking about the acoustic version by singer-songwriter Jose Gonzalez that you heard off that famous TV brand advertisement. Rather this is the original electronica version so craftily put together by this Swedish group. The song oozes clever synth beats and Bjork esque vocals, and its hypnotic tone may or may not make you sway back and forth on your desk chair to the tune of the vocals. I best be off to JB Hifi to get that 56 inch TV I was suddenly craving for, damn advertising!!!!!

13. Kanye West Feat. Lupe Fiasco - Touch The Sky (2006)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkwQbuAGLj4&ob=av2n: It is not every day that a song comes around which sounds so uplifting, so joyful and so emphatic that you feel like getting off your sweat soaked computer chair to do something to help your grandmother, your dog, or that Jehovahs Witness who asks if you believe in the Lord while shoving a copy of Watchtower in your hand. Kanye enlightens the listener with mistakes he made in his life, and he proclaims that if you put the effort in you will 'touch the sky'. The highlight for me besides the gorgeous horns sampling is Lupe's supporting rap. He almost makes the track his own, and to almost do it when rapping with Kanye West is an achievement in itself. The music video pays homage to the US stuntman Evil Knievel.

12. Jet - Are You Gonna Be My Girl (2003)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pBFiEvlwlQ&ob=av2n: Whether you deride this Aussie rock group as being AC/DC copycats, or if you praise them as hard rock revivalists, you can come to a mutual decision about how awesome this ballsy single is. For a short while, Jet brought back hard rock to the masses, opening the floor for people to rekindle their love for and discovering for the first time Aussie rock bands like Cold Chisel, AC/DC and Midnight Oil, all of which heavily influence Jet's music. The theme of this track may be cliche at best, but underneath this is crunching instruments and a melodic guitar driven track that deserves repeatable listens.

11. Peter, Bjorn and John - Young Folks (2006)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51V1VMkuyx0: Sweden has had quite a strong representation in this countdown. From the electro pop of Robyn, to the indie rock of The Hives, to the electronic synth of The Knife, the Swedes have shown that they can produce marvellous musical artists in all genres. The majority of people remember this song for its catchy whistling, which in itself is a great addition, but the youthful male and female vocals and the accompanying band make this sunny folk number highly memorable and definitely one of the most enjoyable songs of last decade.

10. The White Stripes - Seven Nation Army (2003)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0J2QdDbelmY&ob=av2e: It is a common myth that the now iconic riff at the start of the track is made by a bass guitar. Rather it is created by Jack White's semi acoustic guitar through a whammy pedal set down an octave. But why should we care? Jack and Meg White churned out their surefire signature hit in 2003, and the track was used in various commercials and other media, and even the Italian soccer team adopted the song when they won the 2006 World Cup. The dropped 'bass' riff and the patient drums in the verses, cascade into a melodic flurry of power chords and tom toms in the chorus. The Stripes show that elaborate guitar solos and highly produced drum beats need not show their face in jawdroppingly electric tunes like this.

9. The Strokes - Last Nite (2001)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOypSnKFHrE&ob=av2e: Frustration with relationships is not a new subject touched upon by Casablancas and co., but the New York indie rockers tell an honest tale of a man's escape from his emotionally exhausted girlfriend, while crying out that girlfriends, people and spaceships don't understand his problem. Sounds like a dead horse being flogged I  know, but The Strokes belt out this story in their trademark indie retro style. It is claimed that the band refused to make a music video for the song, and instead asked the record company if they can just play the song live, which they were granted permission for. This single laid the platform for the influential and popular group that they were to become over the next decade and beyond.

8. Outkast - Bombs Over Baghdad (B.O.B.) (2000)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVyVIsvQoaE&ob=av2e: Wait a minute........could this hip hip duo actually produce a great hit with things like higher tempos. jungle rhythms and a choir who can bring the song home with a memorable protest chant??? As far fetched as that sounds, somehow Outkast were able to produce one of the greatest songs of the last decade, a radical departure from their medium tempo hip hop numbers that made it to radio before and after this single's release. Don't let the archaic title fool you into thinking this is some war protest song, this song is 5 minutes and 4 seconds of absolute hip hop chaos, and I mean the term chaos in the most positive light.

7. The Flaming Lips - Do You Realize?? (2002)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXGb3JoGp0w: If I could sum up this glorious melodic soundscape in one word and one word only, it would be 'validating'. You can't not listen to this song and feel validated for having the ultimate gift of all, one that you cannot place a dollar value on, life. The Lips ask us questions that we do not think about much, the question with the most impact being 'do you realise, that everyone, you know, some day, will die?'. I have never felt so inspired to go out and live life to the fullest, and I hope this has the same impact on you. Please purchase this song, now!

6. Feist - 1234 (2007)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABYnqp-bxvg&ob=av2e: I would just like to put it out there. I am not some advertising guru who is using familiar theme songs for different electronics products to subliminally command you to go out and buy things like a new TV or a fruit branded music player. This particular song should not be remembered as that song on that iPod ad that everyone remembers came out a few years ago. As the lead singer of Canadian indie group Broken Social Scene, Feist delivers a cutesy acoustic track, with the highlight being her wise and exuberant vocals decorating this gorgeous song. At least Canada has some decent musicians which is a joy to know about.

5. Johnny Cash - Hurt (2002)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp4UI_FxGLE: Now, I am a man's man. It takes me a lot to feel emotion in any form of media, but upon first listening to this instant classic cover of the Nine Inch Nails' song, I couldn't help but shed a tear. This is one of those rare covers that actually are much better than the original, and you can't help but well up while hearing Cash's raspy vocals reverberating throughout the song. Hurt is so hauntingly beautiful that it has been said that even Trent Reznor cried when he first heard this cover. The accompanying music video reflects on Cash's long career with his frail elderly figure adorning it, and it is one of the greatest videos ever to be released. RIP Johnny.

4. The Avalanches - Frontier Psychiatrist (2000)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLrnkK2YEcE&ob=av2e: Sampling seems to be commonplace in many dance and hip hop tunes, and while some sampling works exceptionally well, some can be cheaply added resulting in the song being brought down. But what if a song came out that was nothing but samples from various films and songs? You might think 'that sounds god awful', but this short lived Australian electronic group create something that sounds weird upon first listening. But as you listen to it a few times, this concept grows on you, and things like samples of horses neighing, parrots squawking and a teacher uttering the line 'that boy needs therapy' repeatedly work so well when combined with instrumental sampling of horns and turntables among other things. The album Since I Left You which the single is included on is one of the most acclaimed Aussie albums of the 2000s, and tracks like this validate these claims. I declare this the best Aussie song of last decade.

3. The Dandy Warhols - Bohemian Like You (2001)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CU3mc0yvRNk&ob=av2n: The 2000s was a very cruisy decade in terms of pop culture, and the simplicity of some structures in music was revived. People dropped their turntables and picked up their dust filled guitars, and anthemic doosies like this one symbolised this revolutionary method of producing music. The Dandys recorded easily their most recognisable song, and within days of its release rock radio and music sites knew they stumbled on an extraordinary wunderfind. A staple in karaoke bars, the Brown Sugar-esque guitar riff accompanies a highly rotational fun filled jamboree.

2. Outkast - Hey Ya! (2003)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWgvGjAhvIw&ob=av2e: In the summer of 2003, we were deeply shocked at all of the commercially produced summer tracks that were being released to coincide with the Christmas holidays. Within this manufactured lagoon of shit, an eclectic neo-soul/rock/funk single was released by a well known hip hop group, and we were all thankful to the gods above that there was something worth playing on repeat on those hot summer nights. Think of this song as if someone threw in the funk of Prince, the rockin' melody of The Beatles, the soul of Ike Turner and the New Wave of Devo, but which actually bodes together perfectly. The phrase 'Shake it like a Polaroid picture' was popularised after the song's release, and the video is a homage to The Beatles' 1964 performance on The Ed Sullivan Show. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant.

I have blessed you all with 149 of the best tracks of last decade, and it is now my pleasure to give you my favourite song of the 2000s. And the winner is............

1. Franz Ferdinand - Take Me Out (2004)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ijk4j-r7qPA&ob=av2e: We have to thank indie rock for revitalising the four piece rock group with simple and catchy melodies. For these Scottish rockers, they have composed the song that defined the last decade. This memorable track starts of as a mid tempo groovedown, 48 seconds into it the tempo drops, and out bores a moderate indie rhythm. It beggars belief how Franz pull off such a transition, but they managed to defy the odds and nail it. This is the first guitar driven British anthem to be released in years, and its sound signifies the last decade. A truly deserving number one.

Well that wraps up my first ever list of songs, and as mentioned in the opening paragraph, I thank everyone from all corners of the globe for following my blog and I hope you enjoyed reading my list and watching the music videos. If all goes well I may publish another list in the near future, but we will see what happens. If you would like to go back through the countdown as well read my blog on the ten worst songs of 2000s, please feel free to do so.

Stay safe, and thanks again.

Pooge

My Top 150 Songs of the 2000s - Bonus Blog: The 10 Worst Songs of 2000s

Good evening fellow bloggers, I hope you are enjoying my list of the 150 best songs of the decade that was the 2000s. We have only 20 more songs left on the list, but I thought I would be generous and write a bonus blog before releasing the last part of my series next week. With every great thing there is sometimes the complete opposite: an inconceivable mess of epic proportions. Something so purile and horrid that you wished you cut out your eyes and cut off your ears for seeing and listening to it. Before I let you all ascend into musical heaven, I will be taking you all on a trip to musical hell. Luckily I will only list ten and not 150 of the worst songs of last decade. For those who wish to close this window at this point, please proceed, but for those with the guts to get started, may the gods have mercy on your souls......let's begin.

The 10 Worst Songs of the 2000s

10. Simple Plan - Welcome To My Life (2005)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0U0AlLVqpk&ob=av2n: The band that started the emo movement, and the band that fuelled the short lived Myspace craze of the mid 2000s. These Canadians have placed themselves in the same echelon of other terrible Canadian musicians, including Celine Dion, Justin Bieber and Nickelback, and the whining why me vocals will make you wanna throw yourself out of a window. There is one thing to say about the single and SP's career overall: welcome to my bin.

9. Ke$ha - Tik Tok (2009)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iP6XpLQM2Cs&ob=av2n: In the case of Britney Spears' Toxic and anything from Robyn, pop music in the 2000s can really work with well thought out production values and melodies. In the case of this pop robot monkey, the rules of making decent pop are thrown out entirely. This has to be one of the most overproduced, nonsensical pieces of shit you could ever subject your audiotry canals to. The awful Auto Tuned pop-rapping and dumb lyrics really top off this 3 or 4 minute shitfest.

8. Ricky Martin - She Bangs (2000)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ihtX86JzmA&ob=av2e: Latino listeners and middle aged and elderly people were in joyous raptures when this cheesy latin dance hit landed on our shores. For normal people with musical knowledge outside of Fox FM, we collectively blew chunks out of our mouths while our beloved relatives would play this heaping pile of cow dung ad nauseum for months after its release. Looks like I will be crossing Puerto Rico off my list of places I want to travel to.

7. Holly Valance - Kiss Kiss (2001)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rCDOVzWDts&feature=fvst: If this single proves anything, it shows all you need to launch a short lived musical career within the confines of your home country. If you can act in a local soap opera then you have a record deal. This style of dance pop has been done to death, and we all know it is not Valance singing those awful vocals and constantly mwah mwah mwahing, rather it is the machines in the recording studio doing this. Besides Kylie Minogue, there has not been one decent singer to come out of Summer Bay or Ramsay Street *puts up flame shield to protect himself from Delta Goodrem lackies*.

6. Black Eyed Peas - My Humps (2005)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEe_eraFWWs&ob=av2n: Yes Fergie we understand......you're bragging about your lady lumps, or humps, or bumps or whatever the fuck you want to call them. How The Black Eyed Peas went from being a promising underground hip hip outfit to a pop rap driven laughing stock is beyond me, and Fergie's inception into the group has done nothing but detriment to music in general. I am embarrassed to even listen to this while I am writing this entry.

5. Crazy Frog - Axel F (2005)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k85mRPqvMbE&ob=av2e: Everyone who lived through the 2000s remembers when before the iPhone changed the way that ringtones would be added to phones, morons would stay up late at night and pay $50000000 for a 3 second ringtone. Such bastardry resulted in the conception of this disgrace of a novelty cartoon character with no pants. What is worse than releasing an awful ringtone, why releasing a single cramming your head with the constant 'ring a ding ding ding' to the sampling of the Beverly Hills Cop theme song of the same name of course. Thank goodness that these ringtone companies are out of business.

4. James Blunt - You're Beautiful (2005)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oofSnsGkops&ob=av2e : In hindsight, I could have added any of this former army sergeant's god foresakenly terrible songs on this list, but Blunt's corny lead single off his equally corny album, Back To Bedlam, has the honour of making it. Blunt sounds like that he swallowed a balloon full of helium before singing, and the tired themes of love lost and what could have been will make you smack your head against your desk. Don't say I did not warn you.......

3. Soulja Boi - Crank That (Soulja Boi) (2006)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UFIYGkROII&ob=av2e: I heard a rumour that rappers like Ice Cube thought he was a piece of shit stain on the concept of hip hop. No one could disagree with this after hearing this disgraceful rap 'song'. I don't even understand what he is saying, I don't understand why this guy hasn't been popped by other rappers, and I don't know why this was allowed to leave the recording studio and go and get sold to poor teenagers and kids. This is the worst hip hop song of all time, hands down.

2. Nickelback - How You Remind Me (2001)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cQh1ccqu8M&ob=av2n : Now some of you may be thinking that I am being harsh by focusing on hip hop and pop in this list, but not every genre is pure and enjoyable to listen to entirely. Even rock music has a turd in the river of gold. Nickelback have the dubious honour of featuring a song in my Top 150 (Figured You Out) and a song in the Top 10 with this repetitive three chord dross stinker. Chad Kroeger sounds like he forgot to take his Strepsils for his sore throat, and the band's forced machoness is so goofy it's laughable. Kroeger exclaims in the chorus 'are we havin' fun yet?' and my answer is.....HELL NO!

I would like to apologise and congratulate you all for making it through most of the list. But before we get to number one, here are some honourable mentions of crap songs released in the last decade to remind you all of why music has to have the stench of the Yang with the goodness of the Ying:

Creed - With Arms Wide Open (2000) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99j0zLuNhi8&ob=av2e
50 Cent - Candy Shop (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRcnnId15BA&ob=av2e
Katy Perry - I Kissed A Girl (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bo-A_eCzZXY
Hinder - Lips Of An Angel (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiSfTyrvJlg&ob=av3e
Fast Food Rockers - Fast Food Song (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3dPXxPGbmM&feature=fvst
Akon - Lonely (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EEW-9NDM5k&ob=av2e
Baha Men - Who Let The Dogs Out? (2000) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=He82NBjJqf8
Eminem - Just Lose It (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dcVOmEQzKA&ob=av2e

And now, for the worst song of last decade, I bring to you none other than........

1. Paris Hilton - Stars Are Blind (2006)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYLon-rki10: What the fuck were they thinking? A socialite who is nothing but a plastic doll with no talent gets the green light to release this UB40 wannabe reggae trash? Aspiring singers and musicians from around the world must have revolted and thrown out their home mixing machines when they found out that Paris got a gig and a single and album release. Where do I start with this disgrace? Is it the overpitched vocals? The clearly ripped off reggae beat? The vacuous and unoriginal lyrics? Or it is simply just her chihuahua looking face on the album cover that makes you wanna hurl? Whatever it is, I encourage you to do the following: ask your worst enemy to borrow some money, go to the nearest music shop and buy this single or album in the bargain bin, go get your beloved dog and take them to a park, and throw that CD like a frisbee and watch your pooch mangle the shit out of it.

Well that was a bonus blog, but next week I will present 20 to 1 on the Top 150 of 2000s list. See you soon :)

My Top 150 Songs of the 2000s - 50-21

For the last two weeks we have taken a trip down nostalgia lane reflecting on what I think are the best songs released last decade. Many great artists from different genres have been represented.


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 :).

My Top 150 Songs of the 2000s - 100-51 (plus 101)

Well wasn't the first 50 tunes very exciting to go through? I'm sure some if not all these memorable tracks conjured up many great and not so great nostalgic images of the last decade for you all.

Great For Me



Great For Others



Not So Great For Everyone





Without further ado, I present to you all the next 50 songs on this iconic (I wish.....) countdown, counting down from number 100 up to number 51. I noticed that in part one of my blog series I forgot to add the 101st song (disgraceful I know). Just so I do not leave all my beloved readers extremely curious, I will post the 101st song on my list before I continue on with the next third of my countdown. Here is number 101, the palindrome track (oooooo.....)

101. The Shins - New Slang (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYwCmcB0XMw&ob=av2n: We have Scrubs actor Zach Braff to thank for introducing us to this great indie rock group hailing from none other than Albuquerque in New Mexico. His film Garden State pretty much handed us this band on a nice shiny platter, and their signature tune is a quiet and cruisy folk melody with very relaxing qualities. You can't help but sway your head back and forth while listening to this.

Now please be up standing for the next 50 songs. Here we go again!!!:

100-51

100. The Strokes - The End Has No End (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sQoX12zo-A&ob=av2e: So far with these guys we have delved into teasing law enforcement, sexually charged music videos, and memories of formals and proms. Now Mr Casablancas and company have indulged our senses with a drawling account on how people go about pondering their average lives. Eva Mendes is in the music video too, so expect the viewcount to quadruple in the space of ten minutes after me announcing this.

99.  Robyn Feat. Kleerup - With Every Heartbeat (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ojHWQrm4UM: With normal pop songs you would expect to hear the same structure throughout its 3 or 4 minute length: verse, chorus, verse, bridge, chorus, outro. Robyn goes one step further and leaves out the chorus and bridge! Heavens no! Luckily this free wheeling electropopper has no ties to the overbearing music industry heavies, and her musical freedom of expression is shown once again on this beautiful ballad. Goes to show that Sweden has more icons than just large chested blondes and Ikea.

98. Ladytron - Destroy Everything You Touch (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTTwlAT_AwU&ob=av2e: No this British electronic music group is not the wife of Jeff Bridges in the 80s sci fi tech film. These guys feature a medium tempo beat mixed with female harmonies and spacy keyboards. It sounds so futuristic that you would think Marty McFly went back to the future and showed everyone a copy of it in the present.

97. Kings of Leon - Charmer (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCd1vXsvkV4&ob=av2n: Owwwww this is KOL's second track on this prestigious list, owwww this awesome alternative rock song is about some lady with a pleasant aura, owww this song is groovy to play and still sounds fresh nearly five years after its release, owww I stubbed my goddamn toe, oh no......

96. The Roots - Here I Come (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ys9owWbBH8 : It's not every day that you come across a hip hop 'band', i.e. rappers who play instruments. Imagine if Dr Dre was on guitar, Kanye West was on vocals, Snoop Dogg was smoking dope and bangin' a triangle, and Ice Cube was ice cold on the drums??? I think this arrangement is best left to this superb Grammy Award winning group. This is my favourite track off their 2006 album Game Theory.

95. The Hilltop Hoods - The Hard Road (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFCWHshsw_M: Aussie hip hop is still a growing genre in this brown land, and many talented local MCs have come out of the woodwork thanks to copious amounts of support from Triple J and other independent radio stations. With the status of being a novelty group like their similar contemporary counterparts who rapped about inane issues, the Hoods got it together and created an insightful hip hop number. This in turn gave the once scoffed at genre a stance that it should be taken seriously, and it has paid off in spades many years later.

94. Mark Ronson Feat. Amy Winehouse - Valerie (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HLY1NTe04M&ob=av3n: When the news broke that troubled British songstress Amy Winehouse passed on, musical purists knew that another sublime talent was taken away from us all too soon. Teaming up with established DJ Mark Ronson, Winehouse gave us a soulful rendition of The Zuton's classic. One can't help but shed a tear thinking about how legendary the young lady would have become had she eventually kept it together. This song proved that she was a very special artist.

93. The Rapture - No Sex For Ben (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5MSCtCu9UY: When you think of this song, you think of cruising down the streets of Liberty City in your fictional branded Lamborghini lookalike sports car while receiving invites to play darts with your cousin. I'm not talking about a normal Wednesday night bender for Charlie Sheen, I'm talking about Grand Theft Auto 4 which had this song on its soundtrack. With production by Timbaland, The Rapture freely take the piss out of various DJs they dislike with the support of a human beatboxer and shiny guitar work.

92. Kanye West Feat. Dwele - Flashing Lights (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ila-hAUXR5U&ob=av2e: Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you another song from the Grand Theft Auto 4 soundtrack. Kanye works his motherfuckin lyrical genius by introducing a symphonic strings set, followed closely after with a constant repeating of 'flashing, lights!' to a moderately paced 80s synth beat. Kanye waxes lyrical about the strains of a tragic relationship, and Dwele provides assistance in the short chorus. Not a bad effort for a guy who likes fishsticks, in AND around his mouth.

91. John Butler Trio - Zebra (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PO2b3cggqs0: As an Australian I am ecstatic that an intriguing folk musician by the name for John Butler decided to skip the flashing lights of his home town Los Angeles and bask in the sunny goodness of Perth to start his career. This busker turn full time muso stunned the Triple J and non Triple J listening sector collectively with this melodic electric folk piece off his second album Sunrise Over Sea. Butler notes that he can be one thing and the completely opposite of it without a care in the world. Good on you fella.

90. The Hold Steady - Stuck Between Stations (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnPgegu1EeE: Think of this grandoise indie rock tune as something that Randy Newman would compose and sing in if he was a member of a 70s classic rock band. It's a strange hypothesis to swallow I know, but the driving guitar licks and Woody Allen esque vocals make this song very enjoyable to listen to.

89. Daft Punk - Digital Love (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjli3hj0ZkM&ob=av2e: I'm sure many of you were wondering when these French electro virtuosos would first appear on this list. With an influential debut album released in the late 90s, Punk were more compelled than ever to somehow make their follow up even better. Digital Love has no real meaning or message behind it, it is simply a fun filled dance number that leaves you reminiscing about the beach, kittens, your super hot partner, and/or chocolate milkshake filled swimming pools.

88. The Hives - Hate To Say I Told You So (2000) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCQ7VLoY7bQ: The explosion of garage and indie rock in the early 2000s generated a number of aspiring (and some talented) bands from across the globe. Swedish rockers The Hives introduced themselves to listeners outside of Scandinavia with retro sounding guitars, pumping drums and that now memorable guitar riff. Hate to say I told you so, but this is one tune that needs to played full blast for maximum enjoyment.

87. Pnau - Baby (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKrRYUP107A: Like their contemporaries mentioned in my last blog Bluejuice, Pnau were another wonder find in the late 2000s by Triple J. Baby is a simple dance track which has the ability to gyrate the hips and flail the arms of even the most rigid of listeners. Some may think the trumpet accompaniment is out of place, but I think that it is genius as it is the most memorable part of the song.

86. Deep Dish - Flash Dance (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwCxL4AFqkc&ob=av2n: One would think that this is a vocal narrative of a European arthouse romance film. That pulsing bassline, those rattling drum beats, and those sultry female vocals provide the backing track to a woman's account of a man who means nothing to her. It's a very interesting house track and quite an accomplishment from this Iranian-American house duo.

85. Nas Feat. Will.I.Am - Hip Hop Is Dead (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OVPUGn_U_8 : In this rap rock rendition which samples In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida by Iron Butterfly, Nas questions the fundamentals of hip hop and asks if the once groundbreaking genre has been stripped of its veracity. Will.I.Am from the Black Eyed Peas provides harmonic support during the small breaks, and Nas draws on fantasies of killing DJs who are exploiting this precious channel of poetry. In other words, throw out that Soulja Boi album you have in your CD rack otherwise Nas is coming after you.

84. Junior Senior - Move Your Feet (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPlQpGeTbIE: 'Everybody! A-move your feet and feel united!' exclaims the 8 bit animated digital Danish boy and 8 bit animated Danish older man in the now famous music video of this dance track. In 2003 this worldwide hit had people jiving the world over, and its catchy premise still makes you move your feet while listening to it.

83. Dizzee Rascal and Armand Van Helden - Bonkers (2009) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ci40ae8BlcE&ob=av2e: What do you get when you cross a British Cockney rapper and an acclaimed American house DJ? Nothing but three minutes of energetic pulsating dance music. This track oozes nothing but high energy, and Rascal's rhymes make the whole experience have excellent re-playability.

82. The Chemical Brothers - Galvanize (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xu3FTEmN-eg&ob=av2e: Everything this British electro duo produce is nothing short of sensational. After mesmerizing music lovers in the 90s, The Chemical Brothers produced another instant dancefloor filler in the form of Galvanize off their 2005 album Push The Button. It is nothing but absolute class. Watch out for the awesome face paint on the mischievous boys in the music video.

81. Queens of the Stone Age - Little Sister (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGRqnNEOpe0&ob=av2e: American stoner rockers Queens of the Stone Age reignited our love for pure rock and roll with their third album Songs For The Deaf, but their fourth album Lullabies To Paralyze made sure that they were here to stay. The lead single off LTP validated Queens' status as a band that would check into the hotel room, trash it and stay for as long as they pleased. As long as we don't fit the damage bill I am more than happy about this.

80. Kylie Minogue - Can't Get You Out Of My Head (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFx3WX4DES0: This Top 150 is so diverse that even our Queen of Pop Kylie Minogue made it onto the list. Ms Minogue really delivered when she released this track in 2001, as she infused generic dance-pop with elements of house and disco to create her now signature song. And to think that she was the same lass who sang 'Locomotion' in the 80s......

79. Lupe Fiasco - Kick Push (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7W2bDlefgs: Off the back of a nice cameo in Kanye West's hit Touch The Sky, Fiasco released his acclaimed debut Food And Liquor in the same year. Kick Push tells the story of an aspiring skateboarder and his struggles to try and find great places to skate, as well as talking about his love interest and frequent run ins with the law. This hip hop tune features some very elegant sampling and some nice rhymes and it established Lupe as a genuine hip hop talent to watch out for.

78. Kelly Clarkson - Since U Been Gone (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7UrFYvl5TE&ob=av2n: Everyone knows her as the first winner of American Idol, as well as an expletive  to use when your hairy chest is being waxed. With a couple of contractually obligated forgetful pop tunes under her belt, Clarkson delivered this honest and roaring pop rock number which showed she was more than just another pop machine on the production line. She explains over palm muted guitars in the verses about her turbulent relationship with her ex, and in the chorus she lets loose with distorted axes and pounding drums exclaiming her relief since he left her. Too bad she has never released a song so good ever since.

77. Foo Fighters - Times Like These (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhzmNRtIp8k&ob=av2e: Grohl and co. provide us with this reflective rock and roll tune which Grohl claimed to have written when he felt uncertain about the band's future. 'It's times like these you learn to live again' invokes self awareness and optimism despite the inevitable problems in your life, it is one of the best songs off their One By One album. Well played Fooeys, well played.

76. Florence and the Machine - Kiss With A Fist (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpsDegqioVA&feature=artistob&playnext=1&list=TL8GC7Fa-opeQ: British red haired songstress Florence Welch and Rage Against The Machine's antagonist backing band The Machine wowed us with their glorious debut Lungs. Despite the lyrics, Florence claims that KWAF is not about domestic violence, rather it is about two people who push each other to psychological extremes because they are fighting but still love each other. Smashing plates has never sounded so good.

75. Hot Chip - Ready For The Floor (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhASu2OjEcQ&ob=av2e: British geek technoheads Hot Chip bring their trademark nerd dance sound to the fore with this dreamy 80s esque Euro dance hit. You'll have the lyric 'You're my number one guy' locked in your cranium for days after your first listen.

74. The Darkness - I Believe In A Thing Called Love (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRYNYb30nxU: One would be mistaken into thinking that this song should have been in a 70s or 80s countdown, but don't get me wrong....these British rockers belt out a roaring guitar laden mambo about the feeling you get when you fall in love with someone. Bon Scott would surely have this on his iPod playlist in heaven (or hell).

73. Lady Gaga - Just Dance (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Abk1jAONjw&ob=av2e: 'Lady Gaga??? Come on Pooge you can't be serious? What is this, a list for 10 year old girls?' Before Gaga became the off kilter and outspoken fashionistic pop star she is today, she kept it reasonably tame early in her career and released this danceable pop hit in the winter of 2008. Gaga found solace in the world of fame, which would serve as the main theme of her debut LP The Fame. Just Dance is a fun dance ditty promoting this hedonistic lifestyle.

72. Jay Z - Izzo (H.O.V.A.) (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tWmyPMf3wU&ob=av2e: The only and only Mr Beyonce Knowles was an up and coming producer and hip hop artist in his own right, and he thought he would welcome the record industry with open arms with this hip hop number released in 2001. The first verse deals with his experiences as a drug dealer, while the other verses deal with his struggles with the record industry and his childhood. The rest of this man's illustrious career is history, as they say.

71. Weezer - Island In the Sun (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0C3zgYW_FAM&ob=av2e: With previous entry Hash Pipe being a drug fuelled rock and roll splurge, this track off the same album is the complete opposite: a sober and sunny acoustic to electric melody about going away to an island basking in the sunshine. Try and name at least seven cute and furry animals in the music video.

70. Kings of Leon - Four Kicks (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Abr-XWJMeu0&ob=av2e: Before KOL's Sex on Fire days, these boys would rock the fizzle out of their instruments on a regular basis. If Jack Daniels were a band, they would make music like this. Please enjoy the next 2 minutes and 14 seconds of Southern rock and roll mayhem that made KOL a force to be reckoned with at the time.

69. Faker - This Heart Attack (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Qgh3WNKSRY&ob=av2e: It's been a while since another Aussie entry has been on the list, but Sydney indie fellows Faker have broken the temporary drought. One might think that this is a song from a British 80s alternative rock band based on the lyrics and style, but this fun indie track is 100% dinke di Australian. Now slap on some Vegemite and ride a kangaroo to Ayers Rock you flamin' galah.

68. Jay Z Feat. Alicia Keys - Empire State Of Mind (2009) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UjsXo9l6I8:  This track just makes it on the list by about two and a bit months after it was released on October 20th 2009. Jay Z's orchestral rap ballad, with fine vocal support by RnB/soul songstress Alicia Keys, blows any Lonely Planet: New York Edition out of the water with its heartfelt name dropping of famous NYC landmarks, with some drug references thrown in for good measure. Maybe Jay Z can consider getting into travel books once he retires from the music industry.

67.  50 Cent - In Da Club (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qm8PH4xAss&ob=av2e: As the protégé of hip hop stalwarts Eminem and Dr Dre, Curtis Jackson AKA 50 Cent made his present felt off the bat with this spectacular rap party anthem. Blaring organs, funky beats and cruisy guitar riffs go together with Fiddy's bustin' raps in his signature hit. Sales of Bacardi increased by 200% upon release of this song.

66. LCD Soundsystem - All My Friends (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXp1TQPf2pY&ob=av2e: Glamorising electro trance music, snappy vocals and a glorious piano accompaniment make up this savvy dance number from this Yankee Doodle dance-punk group. As the song progresses more instruments are added to the mix, creating a frantic climax at the conclusion of the song. The Youtube video included is the radio version, however listen to the 7 minute version to hear the full effect of the song. I have three words for this remarkable tune: brilliant, brilliant and brilliant.

65. Klaxons - Golden Skans (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-SJjFcnsGs&ob=av2e: This British indie dance group delights the avid listener with choral woos, shiny guitars and well crafted harmonies within 3 minutes and 42 seconds of unabashed bliss. This song has been used in various commercials and promotions, but Golden Skans still retains its indie feel.

64. Bernard Fanning - Wish You Well (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYlyghmTSIU: In case you are wondering fellow readers, yes this is the frontman of Brisbane rock band Powderfinger. To those who already knew this, Fanning went solo in the spring of 2005 and crafted an album which was perfect for the season it was released in. The lead single's lyrics reflect on either an unfortunate premature breakup, or a really bad hangover. This was voted number one in the Triple J Hottest 100 of 2005, and rightfully so.

63. The Flaming Lips - The W.A.N.D. (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1RlH97xTI4&ob=av2n: Like Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The Flaming Lips are one of those bands that you are very thankful to know about. Their live performances are phenomenal, and their music is on the same level. The Lips grace us with a diatribe on fighting back against the powers that be, and the accompanying instruments give this track a futuristic feel.

62. The Cat Empire - Hello (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sl9yb18urNU&ob=av2e: Who can make big band music sound accessible and way, way, way, way, WAY cool? Why it's this exciting Melbourne group of course. The lead single off their awesome self titled debut album introduced us to these fellows in ecstatic fashion, and the brass arrangement tops off a grand ensemble. You must see these guys before you die, they are amazing live.

61. Green Day - American Idiot (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqZOYgUolC4: After a four year hiatus, these Californian punk rockers came back in style with an impressive concept album, American Idiot. This eponymous single questions the integrity of the media, particularly in the United States, and Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt and Tre Cool blast our craniums with driving power chords and pulsating drum beats to get their message across. A once great punk band became reborn and (almost) better than ever after its release.

60. The Vines - Get Free (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asOvnGHwtDU&ob=av2e: If you mixed the ferocity of Nirvana with a dash of punk rock, you would get The Vines' signature eardrum burster. Lead singer Craig Nicholls cries out for freedom, and the rest of the band attack us with megawatts of distortion and chants of 'come here, come here, come here' after the second verse. This is pure fucking rock and roll in all its glory.

59. Nirvana - You Know You're Right (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qv96yJYhk3M&ob=av2e: Speaking of Nirvana, they have amazingly earned a spot on this countdown. How did such an influential 90s grunge band whose lead singer died in 1994 get a song on a 2000s list you ask? You Know You're Right was a near forgotten bootleg track that Kurt Cobain refused to add to any album. After a lengthy court battle with Cobain's widow Courtney Love, the magical Dave Grohl added this remastered studio version to Nirvana Greatest Hits album released in 2002. This track reminded us of the pain filled singing and choral growls that Cobain had to offer, and its hard hitting chorus will have the biggest rock fans in raptures. RIP Kurt.

58. Weezer - Pork and Beans (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQHPYelqr0E&ob=av2n: Described by frontman Rivers Cuomo as an 'anti-anthem anthem', Weezer wrote this memorable tune after their record label wanted them to produce a more commercially successful single. The verses are filled with a clean guitar lick and reflective vocals, and the chorus bursts out into a flurry of power chords, self worth and defiance against their label. The music video features cameos from famous Youtube celebrities, including the Leave Britney Alone guy, the Mentos and Coke experiment, and the Star Wars guy. This is very uplifting to listen to if you're feeling down.

57. The White Stripes - Black Math (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vak38jOSgR4: Jack and Meg White have done it again! Black Math is another of many groovin' garage rock tracks off the Elephant album, and straight off the bat Black Math belts you with stuttering distorted guitars and dynamic drumming. Watch out for the slowed down break after the first two short verses. It transitions perfectly.

56. Amerie - 1 Thing (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbqVg_23otg&ob=av2e: The first thing you notice in this well composed RnB tune is the funky trumpets and cascading drums. Amerie's stuttering yet beautiful vocals shine through in support of this arrangement, and overall the medium tempo funky beat-driven percussion completes a sensational track. I hope a follow up from Amerie which is as great as this happens one day.

55. Ben Folds - Rockin' The Suburbs (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34u_3Z9_LUw&ob=av2e: Our precious ears were plagued by untalented nu metal bands like Limp Bizkit and Korn in the late 90s and early 2000s. As a result oversized basketball jersey wearing, backwards capped suburban kids all over raved on about how 'original' and 'awesome' this music was. Talented American muso Ben Folds composed an incredible melodic piss take to these wannabe cretins, inciting that these people rock the suburbs like Bon Jovi, Quiet Riot and Michael Jackson did in a sarcastic manner. The climax of the song makes fun of nu metal with a tuned down ten second jam exposing the lameness of the now forgotten stain on rock and metal music.

54. Michael Andrews and Gary Jules - Mad World (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4N3N1MlvVc4: Mr Andrew and Mr Jules, two relatively unknown musicians, tugged at our heart strings and made our eyes water when they released this stripped down rendition of the classic Tears For Fears song. This song was made popular thanks to the acclaimed film Donnie Darko, and the song has the rare ability to put you in a dream like state as you listen to it. It is easily one of the best cover songs of last decade.

53. Gnarls Barkley - Crazy (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bd2B6SjMh_w&ob=av2e: Just when we thought that 2006 was a somewhat average year for music, Danger Mouse and Cee Lo Green AKA Gnarls Barkley presented us with this spaghetti Western inspired, medium tempo urban groove. If I could sum up relief in one word in relation to the year 2006 in a song, this would be it. The song rightfully went on to win numerous awards and top many 2006 and 2000s music polls.

52. Beck - Profanity Prayers (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wD1hM7TMkg: Everything American singer-songwriter Beck produces is first class in my book. Off the back of a successful 2008 release Modern Guilt, Beck releases a guitar and synth laden tirade on the validity of a higher being. 'Who is going to answer, your Profanity Prayers?' is a very discerning lyric to a great song.

51. Aaliyah - Try Again (2000) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcIvIladNnQ: Aaliyah was another amazing artist that was lost oh too soon. Released for the soundtrack of the 2000 film Romeo Must Die which she also starred in, Aaliyah sings about a forbidden relationship, and questions her lover on his ambitions to 'try again' if problems arise during their courtship. Wonderful sampling and Aaliyah's poignant vocals make up this extraordinary tune. God knows how influential this young lady would have become had she not been in that fateful plane crash that cut her life short......

I hoped you enjoyed the next 51 songs on my list. Part Three of my series of blogs is coming up next week, and it will include numbers 50 to 21. In two weeks times my final instalment, The Final 20, will be released showcasing my favourite twenty songs of last decade. Stay tuned :)

My Top 150 Songs of the 2000s - 150-101

For many of us, the 2000s, or the Noughties as they are widely known as in the media, was a decade of extreme social highs, and dreadful social lows. Tragedies such as 9/11 and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq had many of us in a state of paranoia and uncertainty which in turn changed the way we function as a society.



The evil Y2K virus was found to be a huge misapprehension, The Simpsons went from being cleverly witty to painfully slapstick, and Britney Spears went from being a virginal teen mega pop star to a riddled mess of an adult nymphomaniac bald eagle as per below:

The music released during this time had a large influence on the minds and ears of those who lived through the decade. Never before had there been so many genres of music, and never before had there been such effortless methods of accessing this material. Once niche genres like rap and hip hop ascended into the stereos and headphones of the middle upper class white community, while once sought after genres like alternative rock went back into the industry shadows for the first time in nearly a decade. Dance and electronica reached a new zenith in popularity and innovation, and genres such as dubstep, crunk, indie, garage rock revival and grime became staples in people's Discmans and in the later part of the decade, iPods.



The advent of Internet music download sites like iTunes (legal) and LimeWire (illegal), internet radio, as well as video sites like YouTube and social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter ushered in new ways of accessing new and existing artists' material all with a few simple clicks. Gone were the days of a typical person listening to one genre, in the Noughties an average Joe's typical iPod playlist would consist of rock, hip hop, electro and pre 2000s music, among others.

After reading Top 200 lists in magazines such as Rolling Stone and music sites such as Pitchfork for a number of months, I felt very compelled to compile a list of my very own favourite songs of the last decade. It was very difficult to narrow it down to 50 or 100 songs, so I decided to go all out and make it a top 150 countdown.

The sole criteria for a song to be added was that it had to be released as a single or on an album between January 1st 2000 and December 31st 2009. For some I'm afraid that there is no Justin Bieber or One Direction this time around (that won't be in my best of 2010s list either let me assure you). Many genres are represented on this list, and as a dinky di Aussie I have also included Australian artists who were under-represented on those America and Europe centric lists. Please note that this is my own personal opinion, so please don't get upset if I don't feature your favourite song(s) or artist(s) on my list. I hope you enjoy the first 50 songs of the countdown. I have included a YouTube link for each song's music video for your viewing pleasure. Let the games begin!:

150-100

150. The Temper Trap - Sweet Disposition (2009) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxKjOOR9sPU&ob=av2e - A staple on mainstream radio playlists for the next two years after its release, this Melbourne band introduced us to their signature jangly guitars, pitch perfect lead vocals and soaring melodies months before the release of their triumphant debut album. This track is an instant Australian classic.

149. Three Days Grace - I Hate Everything About You (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8ekz_CSBVg&ob=av2e: This angst filled alternative breakup song had the recently heartbroken at the time seething inside with venom. The distorted hard rock chant of 'I, hate, everything about you, why, do I, love you!?' in the chorus is worth the price of admission alone.

148. The White Stripes - Fell In Love With A Girl (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q27BfBkRHbs: Most rock bands would be kicking themselves for not coming up with a short but hyperactive jam like this. The slowly developing Stripes proved that an electric guitar and drums was all you needed to create groovy rock and roll. This track is 1 minute 50 seconds of garage rock goodness.

147. Spiderbait - Black Betty (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nU1VfYYKMDk&ob=av2e: A band that were much more diverse than they were made out to be, Spiderbait achieved the unthinkable in the winter of 2004 in Oz: a jivin' banjo/guitar laden garage rock cover of the famous Afro American slave song. Sure it was done well in a blues rock fashion by Ram Jam in the 70s, but 'Bait's rendition was a firecracker.

146. The Ting Tings - Shut Up And Let Me Go (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tolm-07if3c&ob=av2e: Yes you've heard this on a car commercial, yes the bass line is booming, yes the drum rhythm and the sharp keyboards are bangin', and yes this is a funky house-esque groove-down by a British pop-dance duo with a Wiggles cover band name.

145. The Strokes - The Modern Age (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzO7IGWGxu8&ob=av2e: The overstated (yet deservingly titled) 'saviours of rock and roll' came in at just the right time as rock and roll almost disappeared completely at the turn of the century beneath the waves of the dance and hip hop tsunami. 'The Modern Age' is one of many Strokes tracks that are very enjoyable upon first listen. Sit back and let Julian Casablancas indict you with his day to day views on contemporary society.

144. Robyn - Be Mine! (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PDNRTCuPyQ: This Swedish songstress displays her sweet revenge on the man that doesn't want to win her heart. The accompanying strings and drum machine bring this sentiment to the fore in a catchy and subtle I Am Woman Hear Me Roar way.

143. Weezer - Hash Pipe (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9BGLtqqkVI&ob=av2e: An anthem for stoners worldwide off the ironic sounding album The Green Album, Rivers Cuomo and co. belt out their Mary Jane influenced emotions on the unsympathetic world they reside in. Just remember kiddies, drugs are baaaad, mmkay?

142. Vampire Weekend - Oxford Comma (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_i1xk07o4g&ob=av2e: Is there nothing these American indie-disco punk/kitchen sink wiseguys can do wrong? While this may not be their magnum opus, the lazy melodies and sarcastic lyrics for this one are enough to satisfy even the most placid of listeners. By the way, what the hell is an Oxford Comma?

141. The Grates - 19-20-20 (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k35b7M-BtYI: With lead singer Patience Hodges' child like vocals and playful guitar riff, this is something that Sesame Street would come up with if they could fit instruments in their hands (or wings if you're Big Bird). Funny thing is that it all blends together excellently to create a amusing pop-rock tune.

140. Vitalic - La Rock 01 (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGOaXphpT7w: Before Daft Punk became the electro kings they now are, this relatively unknown French house DJ set the foundations for the trademark sound that Daft would adopt. If this makes you want to run into a building with guns blazing a la Matrix style, or drive a sports car 300 kms down the highway, please seek professional help.

139.  Starsailor - Four To The Floor (Thin White Duke Mix) (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8zgEhEol-8: This song takes me back to when I was in Year 10 or 11. While the original mix lacks polish, the Thin White Duke Mix gives this musical creation an edgy dance style. Stamping your foot to the thunderous bass drum is a perfectly normal side effect while listening to this.

138. Nickelback - Figured You Out (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIjRo-gMlKE&ob=av2e: 'Nickelback?! That hack Canadian band has a song on here?' you cry as you Facebook your Twitter on the Youtube while reading this. Even the drossiest POS band or singer can sometimes have one golden nugget hidden beneath their river of dense shite. 'I like your pants around your feet' is a great pick up line for those guys who wanna get a girl in bed for the night.

137. Usher Feat. Lil' John and Ludacris - Yeah (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hy-5d4r_6Y8: By this point in his career, Usher Raymond III was established as a premier RnB artist in the music charts. But just before he dished out his subsequently appalling 'tunes', he delivered this surprisingly instant dancefloor filler. Frequent interjections of 'Ya-eer! O-Kay' by Lil Jon and a moderate verse rapped by Southern rapper Ludacris complete this pre-crunk ditty.

136. Beck - Girl (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkCg-3nxT8E&ob=av2e: You have to love this masterfully crafted jamboree by everyone's favourite non-mainstream singer Beck. The slide guitar, the Southern vocals and the 8 bit MIDI notes at the start are arranged to create that sense of pleasure, even if very brief. He proves that he ain't a loser baby, so please don't kill him.

135. Angus and Julia Stone - Just A Boy (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEZ-m61dBKY&ob=av2e: As I mentioned previously, drugs are baaad mmkay? However in the case of this ARIA Award winning sibling folk duo, drugs can sometimes be a good thing. A great example is this philosophical acoustic number which sent the Stones (not Jagger and Richards) from playing at small hippy confines at fur and meat protests to large arenas around Australia.

134. Coldplay - Clocks (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d020hcWA_Wg&ob=av2n: Everyone knows that famous line in The 40 Year Old Virgin: 'You know how I know you're gay? You listen to Coldplay'. While they may seem like the bastard band of U2 and Radiohead, Chris Martin and co. have produced some grand songs since their inception. This anthemic stadium/arena piano driven ballad was an instant classic in the early 00s, and it transformed this once humble alt rock group into the stadium rock superstars they are today. Not so gay now, is it?

133. Motor Ace - Carry On (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJCbBq1qV4I: Sometimes a song comes around that makes you think about the world you are living in. This inspiring tune by the now disbanded Melbourne group serves as a pivotal backing track to this state of mind. 'We just stare while the wheels fall off/but everyone seems to carry on, carry on', cries the hapless lead vocalist to a soaring strings arrangement. It sends shivers down the spine.

132. The Game Feat. 50 Cent - Hate It Or Love It (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuMBmK5uksg: Two years earlier, Fiddy delivered his bangin' debut 'In Da Club' and his fellow G Unit mate The Game decided to release a track with a more serious tone about a more serious issue. The Game delivers a dreary tale of living in the hood, and the adversity faced while trying to make it out and become something. This is a rap track that oozes honesty, and Fiddy delivers a fine support act.

131. The Vines - Ride (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFDHVuGeem8: Like The Strokes in the US and The Hives in Sweden, Aussie garagers The Vines helped revive garage rock in their homeland and around the world to a degree. This may have been done to death in various car and electronics commercials, but it is still a rockin' track by a rockin' band just after they hit their peak.

130. Twista and Kanye West Feat. Jamie Foxx - Slow Jamz (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrMrqBcv6Mk: Motor mouth MC Twista and an up and coming producer/hip hop artist named Kanye West, with support by actor Jamie Foxx, delivered this RnB tinged hip hop number to our curious ears. Kanye's youthful rhymes laid down the foundations for the great artist that he was to become. this is great to listen to while in bed with your significant other doing the wild thing.

129. The Strokes - Juicebox (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoltwBHXCx8&ob=av2e: What do you know, another entry by The Strokes! Hooray for indie/garage rock revival bands! Kudos to the groovin' bassline and usual guitar genius on this one. The music video is, well........interesting I suppose.

128. Tenacious D - Tribute (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lK4cX5xGiQ&ob=av2e: Just putting it out there, this is NOT the actual song, this is a tribute to the greatest song in the world. Imagine if this came out when Youtube was around, the number of tributes and covers of the tribute would have gone through the roof!

127. Kasabian - Shoot The Runner (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2C0OEVWKZv0&ob=av2e: I saw these guys at this year's Big Day Out, and I must say they were nothing short of exceptional. 'I'm the king, and she's my queen, bitch!' may be poking fun at the Royal Family or Elvis Presley or whatever, I wouldn't know. The music video is a paintball player's wet dream.

126. MGMT - Time To Pretend (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9dSYgd5Elk&ob=av2e: Who'd a thunked it? A spacy electro number lampooning the desired yet derided rock and roll lifestyle. And in case you're wondering, these guys had more quality tunes than 'Electric Feel'. The album with which his track was on is one of the best albums of last decade. Period. Try not to hum to the keyboard riff on this one, it can get very addictive upon repeated listenings.

125. Eagles of Death Metal - Stuck In The Metal (Middle With You) (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmfDlUbwEVY: Hands up if the original version conjures up the memory of that guy getting his ear cut off in Reservoir Dogs. Yep, that makes two of us. However there's no razors on the desensitised mind when this cover comes on. EODM are a band who sound like they're having fun while recording, and it shows in this one.

124. Peaches - Boys Wanna Be Her (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JRwVoKs_nU&ob=av2e: 'Doof, doof, doof, doof, doof, doof, doof, doof, wah wowwwww' opens this glam rock/electro number. A single from the double entendred album Impeach My Bush, Peaches will have you bouncing off the walls by the time the steely chorus comes on. Look out for the once extinct keytar in the music video. How 80s.

123. The Strokes - New York City Cops (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhgYg_ktRdE: The Strokes had the misfortune of releasing their debut album three weeks after 9/11, and out of respect they withdrew this song upon release. When the album was re-released a year later they brought the track back, and I am glad they did. A sarcastic ode to that typical crazy ex partner, with a stab at the fine police men and women of the NYPD thrown in for good measure.

122. The Streets - Fit But You Know It (2004) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Qg3rQfeZv4: I thought I'd write this one in a Cockneystyle, OK here goes: This fing is great ya? Bangin' beats and mean rythms are wicked, innit? Now sod off to the next track you bloomin' codger. I best stick with proper English.....

121. Kelis - Milkshake (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AwXKJoKJz4&ob=av2e: After listening to this surprise monster track, we can conclude that Kelis' milkshake is definitely better than yours. This megahit rocketed to number one all around the world in the summer of 2003, and Kelis became a worldwide sensation, albeit for a short period of time. You gotta love the accompanying dirty backing track to Kelis' seducing vixen like vocals.

120. Stereophonics - Dakota (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUHjDJxkcSE: Let me feel like the one, let me feel like the one' exclaims the lead singer during the chorus while in time with the screeching guitar notes in the background. These Welsh rockers really know how to churn out a hit with honest and meaningful lyrics.

119. Audioslave - Cochise (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDMvN45sjo4&ob=av2e: What do you get when you mix Soundgarden's ballsy lead vocalist, and three quarters of rapcore protest band Rage Against The Machine in a blender and flick the switch? Ballsy alternative rock drivers like this one off their eponymous debut album. We have to thank the rock gods for this merger as well as this gutsy opening track.

118. Bluejuice - Vitriol (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldBhDmvWFXE: Talk about a great find by alternative music station Triple J. The Aussie indie pop rockers have fun and excitement reverberating through their catchy indie electro offerings. This is a groovy sing along by an energetic homegrown outfit. Their music video to this parodies occults and secret societies.

117. The New Pornographers - Letter From An Occupant (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBAUQaj6EJo: What? They're not up and coming adult filmmakers? Gosh darn it, my mistake..........this gorgeous indie tune with endearing female vocals and harmonic wooing choruses can put a smile on anyone's face. Now to find my copy of the Debbie Does Dallas Limited Edition DVD....

116. Rihanna Feat. Jay Z - Umbrella (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvBfHwUxHIk&ob=av2n: By this stage Rihanna was sick of the goody goody demeanour she unwillingly presented to the public. Her edgy and daring album Good Girl Gone Bad blew her image out of the water a nanosecond after its release. With help from Hova and with some tremendous production values at her disposal, Rihanna crafted this endearing and pounding RnB love song. You could say that this is very stellar, ellar, ellar, ey ey ey.

115. Karnivool - Shutterspeed (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlxm3GdpjYE&ob=av2n: Think of these Perthians as a band like Tool if they played in proper time signatures. Of course that would be more related to their newer music. Shutterspeed delivers an alternative metal cruchfest driven on by thumping drums, harmonic vocals, tuned down guitars and a bassline that would wake the dead. It is absolutely perfect for those relaxing Sunday afternoons at home curled up with a green tea and a home magazine.

114. Nine Inch Nails - Capital G (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JU042ICxC0A&feature=fvst: Mr Reznor expresses his outrage over former US president Bush and his stance on war in this hard hitting industrial number. He pushes the button and drops the bomb, and by bomb I mean this vigorous track.

113. Phoenix - 1901 (2009) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiQppszlXrg: These French alt rockers deliver a gracious ode to the good old 20th Century. Their catchy guitars and spacy accompaniment is smooth and of a good spirit. It is an absolute delight that deserves repeat listens.

112. TV On The Radio - Wolf Like Me (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R_6aC6m9Xg: Everyone has heard of the fantastical metamorposis from an average homo sapien to a feisty lycanthrope as seen and heard through many pieces of literature. These American indie rockers haunt us with a late era Black Keys-type groove, coupled with a precise layering of guitars, choral wails and drums. You will want to bark at the moon upon your first listen.

111. Vampire Weekend - A-Punk (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_XC2mqcMMGQ&ob=av2e: This is indie rock at its most purest, its most tantalising, and at its most eccentric. The tribal Afro drum beats make this track for me. Another winner by a winning band.

110. Santogold - L.E.S. Artistes (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCeZzW54a2o: I don't know much about this artist, but if this finely assembled electro-punk/glam rock tune is anything to go by, I better store up some iTunes credit and buy some more of her material (or pirate it, whichever's easier).

109. R Kelly - Ignition (Remix) (2002) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6y_4_b6RS8&ob=av2e: After his scandolous teenage molestation allegations, Mr R. Kelly took a different musical direction. Gone were the long winded rap operas, all this man needed was a simple accessible hit which would take him from rich to filthy rich. With Kristyle flowing, stretch Navigators, and butt loads of food AND 'the' afterparty, R.K. is sure to entice you into this hedonistic fantasy.

108. Foo Fighters - Best of You (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_L4Rixya64&ob=av2e: Surprisingly the Fooeys went a little bit stale after the release of their fifth studio album In Your Honor on the back of three terrific albums in the 90s and one in the 2000s. Grohl and co. found new pleasures in playing in huge stadiums, a feat seen as only a distant thought at the time of the band's inception. The Fooeys took a more gospel approach to their lead single, and it's quite liberating to hear Mr Grohl stick up for the common man and question our humanity for about 4 or so minutes.

107. The White Stripes - Little Acorns (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZrZZtxtQNo: How could you feel nothing but jubilation for the determined protagonist Janet? A preamble by a very familiar voiceover is proceeded by crunching guitars, and flailing drum beats, with a few palm muted verses by Jack White thrown in to simmer it down for moments at a time. Definitely one of the most headbanging tracks off their Elephant album.

106. Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Gold Lion (2006) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMMkP_ofpXg&ob=av2e: Yeah Yeahs Yeahs are one of those bands that you are proud to be associated with. Lead singer Karen O questions her integrity to the We Will Rock You style drum pattern and accompanying guitar licks and keyboard riffs. Listen out for the steady overdriven conclusion at the climax of the song.

105. Nine Inch Nails - Only (2005) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDsqpeiTqg8&ob=av2e: This man needs no introduction. His second track on the list is a simple percussion and synth driven track with lyrics he describes as 'The concept of referring to oneself as 'you' or 'only' in one's inner mental dialogue.' Pretty deep for guy who wants to fuck you like an animal. Best served over a Sunday arvo drive to the beach.

104. Kings of Leon - Black Thumbnail (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqHhNOdAvs0: Everyone is well aware of the unexpected fame that this Southern rock and roll band attained in the space of five years since their debut album. Their later material is played regularly at various roughneck pubs and blue light discos, and the term 'Sex on Fire' has been changed from an unbearable sexual experience to a sexy demeanour particularly for females. Before KOL rolled around in money baths, this arena rock number off their third studio album showed that the band still had their hearts in the past but their minds in the future.

103. The Strokes - Under Control (2003) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT8gx5cgx4Q: Not every Strokes song has to have illegible rambling and post punk guitar work. This one is a medium tempo song that sounds like it should have been added to the soundtrack of a late 90s/early 2000s coming of age teen film.

102. The White Stripes - Hotel Yorba (2001) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZPEUyiNcjA&ob=av2e: This country and western tinged jamboree is so unconventional for the Stripes that it is marvellous. Given that it was their first commercially released single, the virgin listeners may have been under the impression that the band would be some hick country folk duo who learned their instruments while listening to the Deliverance soundtrack. Boy were we wrong.

I hope you enjoyed the first 50 soongs on my list. Look out for my next blog: My Top 150 Songs of the 2000s - 100-51.

Toodles :)