“Cry For You” – September
This is Swedish pop music at its best, as odd as that may sound. But don’t worry – it’s nothing like an ABBA song. It’s catchy and instantly danceable, and it will have you moving on your feet before you know it.
“Extraordinary” – Mandy Moore
This song is such a spectacular, refreshing departure for Mandy Moore. Sure, “Candy” was awesomely poptastic, but “Extraordinary” is a new kind of pop – kind of folksy, kind of mellow and more than kind of mature.
“Let Me Go” – Sonya Kitchell
This rhythmic, jazzy song about moving on is like a combination of Regina Spektor’s smooth-yet-raspy vocal style and Norah Jones’ piano-driven jazz. It’s catchy and classic, but it’s likely to appeal only to fans of jazz-pop like Jones and Jamie Cullum.
“New Shoes” – Paolo Nutini
Interview magazine put it best when they said this song is irresistible. Who can resist a song about everything being better with a new pair of shoes on?
“Within” – William Joseph
William Joseph’s “Within” is quite possibly the most exciting piece of classical music you’ll hear. Even though “Within” doesn’t have any lyrics, you won’t get bored; Joseph’s hypnotic piano-playing, layered with strings and drums, will have you enthralled and wishing you could play the piano as well as he can.
“I Know” – Drake Bell
Never mind that Drake Bell is Drake of “Drake and Josh” fame. With “I Know,” he proves himself as a musician, and the track is more mature than his typical Nickelodeon-watching fanbase.
“City” – Lo-fi-fnk
Lo-fi-fnk is another Swedish import, but the duo’s sound is much different than September’s. Their deep electronic/synthesized grooves are less sugary than other dance tunes, but no less danceable. Blast this one at full volume for a thrilling ride through an electro-wonderland.
“Your Head’s Too Big” – The Ditty Bops
This quirky, snarky song is a refreshing departure from the typical sound of the pop scene, and it’s a nice commentary on people whose heads are (figuratively) too big.
“It’s Better to Have Loved” – Temposhark
The original version of the song is simple and pleasant, but the “Guy Sigsworth Mix” adds a much-needed depth to this emotional, electronic song about finding the positive in a broken heart.
Did we forget something?
If you’ve got a song you want to recommend, send your recommendation to [email protected], and maybe it’ll be published in a future edition of Pulse!
In your e-mail, please include your name and why you think people should give your song a chance.