Top 20 Songs

Antoine Dodson & The Gregory Brothers - Bed Intruder Song

2010-12-31T16:38:00.000-08:00

Album: Bed Intruder Song (Single)

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I’m not much of a YouTube watcher, so it was just recently that I found out about Antoine Dodson, who got the most YouTube video views of the year in 2010. For those of you who haven’t heard of this guy, first watch the original newscast where he was featured.

He sounds like the Donkey from Shrek! As if this wasn’t hilarious enough, music group, The Gregory Brothers, took this clip and created auto-tune song out of it, which is actually quite catchy.

This song became so popular on iTunes that it even entered the Billboard Hot 100, and caused numerous viral covers. I particularly liked the college marching band covering the song. I enjoyed it so much that I even purchased the track on iTunes. Hey, the proceed of the song was able to get Dodson family out of the hood. The only sad thing is that the sex offender has not been caught just yet.

Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti - Round And Round

2010-12-31T16:36:00.000-08:00

Album: Before Today

Pitchfork - indie music magazine’s top 5 songs of 2010 went like this: #1 Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti – Round and Round; #2 Kanye West – Runaway; #3 LCD Soundsystem – I Can Change; #4 Robyn – Dancing On My Own; #5 Big Boi – Shutterbugg. The number 1 sounded familiar, and it turned out that I had it on my iTunes (must’ve been part of free song package from Spin magazine or itunes or Amazon MP3). On the magazine, they claim that this song sounds similar to last year’s their #1 choice, Animal Collective – My Girls. I have to admit that I’m not a huge fan of either of those songs, but someone out there must think this is great.

Das Racist - hahahaha jk?

2010-12-31T16:35:00.000-08:00

Album: Sit Down, Man

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I kept on seeing their names on the year end lists, and had to look them up. Apparently they are known for the 2008 song, “Combination Pizza Hut And Taco Bell” where they humorously rap about being confused about the national chain that combines both choices. This track was also voted as one of the best songs on Rolling Stone magazine. The mixtape album is available for free on their website.

Deadmau5 - Animal Rights /ft. Wolfgang Gartner

2010-12-31T16:34:00.000-08:00

Album: 4x4=12

What a year for Canadian DJ, Joel Zimmerman known as Deadmau5 in 2010. He was the house DJ during Vancouver Winter Olympics as well as MTV VMA, and he climbed up two spots to take the #4 spot on DJ Magazine’s annual Top 100 DJ Poll. His latest album titled 4x4=12 contains bunch of songs that is sure to get your head bobbing, and dancing all night.

Deerhunter - Helicopter

2010-12-31T16:33:00.000-08:00

Album: Halcyon Digest

Spin magazine voted Deerhunter’s fourth album, Helicopter, as the second best album of the year (followed by #1 Kanye West’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy). The single, “Helicopter” placed on numerous end-of-year charts as one of the best songs of 2010. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia USA, they describe themselves as “ambient punk.” I do get sleepy listening to this song.

Diddy - Dirty Money - Coming Home /ft. Skylar Grey

2010-12-31T16:32:00.000-08:00

Album: Last Train To Paris

With so much of the rap world focused on newer superstars such as Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj, younger rap fans may not be so aware of Puff Daddy’s “Bad Boy” existence. But, Diddy has finally released much anticipated album, Last Train to Paris using the group name, Diddy-Dirty Money, which also includes, singer-songwriter, Kalenna Harper and former Danity Kane member, Dawn Richard. I didn’t expect too much from this album, but the current single is quite catchy, after you listen to it a couple of times.

Janelle Monae - Tightrope /ft. Big Boi

2010-12-31T16:31:00.000-08:00

Album: The ArchAndroid

Kansas City native R&B singer, Janelle Monae released her debut album, The ArchAndroid in May of 2010 from Bad Boy Records label. This single, “Tightrope” had placed on top 10 tracks of the year on numerous music magazines and blogs.

LCD Soundsystem - All I Want

2010-12-31T16:22:00.000-08:00

Album: This Is Happening

LCD Soundsystem’s James Murphy was chosen as one of the artist of the year from Spin magazine. Also on its magazine’s top 5 list, it places on #4. #1 Cee-Lo Green – Fuck You; #2 Arcade Fire – Ready to Start; #3 Kanye West – Power; #4 LCD Soundsystem – All I Want; #5 Neil Young – Hitchhiker.

Rick Ross - B.M.F. (Blowin' Money Fast) /ft. Styles P

2010-12-31T16:18:00.000-08:00

Album: Teflon Don

MTV News announced their list of top 25 songs of 2010, and the top 5 ranked as: #1 Usher – OMG; #2 Kanye West – Runaway; #3 Kanye West – Power; #4 Rick Ross – BMF; #5 Cee-lo Green – Fuck You. I’ve reviewed all of those songs, except for Ross’ BMF (Blowing Money Fast). It wasn’t a huge radio hit, considering that MTV ranks it amongst the best of the year, here it is.

T.I. - That's All She Wrote /ft. Eminem

2010-12-31T16:17:00.000-08:00

Album: No Mercy

T.I.’s follow up album after 2008 mega-hit, Paper Trail was delayed due to his jail sentence. And just when we thought he got out, he was sent back to jail again for violating his probation. The album is strong with guest stars ranging from Kanye West, The-Dream, Chris Brown, Drake to even Christina Aguilera. On the regular edition, you can’t get the previously released singles such as “Got Your Back” or “Yeah Ya Know” and “I’m Back.”

Black Eyed Peas - The Time (Dirty Bit)

2010-12-16T10:15:00.000-08:00

Album: The Beginning

Will.I.am, Fergie and the other two guys (yes, I do know their names) are back with a band new album, after their international phenomenon, The End from last year. For the lead off single, they sample “Time of My Life” from Dirty Dancing. It is catchy, but so far doesn’t have the infectious sound of “Boom Boom Pow” or “I’ve Got A Feeling.”

Broken Bells - The Ghost Inside

2010-12-16T10:14:00.000-08:00

Album: Broken Bells

When I first heard this song on the radio, I thought it was The Gorillaz. But it turned out to be Broken Bells, who is one half Gnarls Barkley (producer Danger Mouse) and other half, The Shins (lead singer James Mercer). It’s a catchy fun track that stays in your head.

Daft Punk - Derezzed

2010-12-16T10:13:00.000-08:00

Album: Tron: Legacy Soundtrack

I’ve never watched the original movie, Tron, but seeing the trailer, and hearing Daft Punk’s name makes me want to go to the theater, just to hear Daft Punk’s soundtrack in surround sound. And the movie looks amazing, visually. I do have to say that a lot of the songs on the soundtrack doesn’t sound much like Daft Punk from the past. But this single makes you want to break out the glow stick.

Dr. Dre - Kush /ft. Snoop Dogg & Akon

2010-12-16T10:12:00.000-08:00

Album: Kush (Single)

Finally! The most anticipated album of the decade – Dr. Dre’s final album of his career, Detox, may be coming close to finishing. This album has been in work since 2003. There has been several leaked songs, but this one seems like an official song, as it was released as a single on iTunes. The beat is still the Dre’s hardcore Westcoast sound. And how can you hate on the collaboration between Snoop and Dre.

Duffy - Well, Well, Well

2010-12-16T10:11:00.000-08:00

Album: Endlessly

Welsh singer, Duffy had a huge success with her debut album, Rockferry, which contained hit singles such as “Mercy” and “Warwick Avenue”. She had the Amy Winehouse style of throwback voice, and all of us expected more of that for her sophomore album, but she decided to go for more upbeat sound. Duffy still maintains her unique soulful voice, but this lead off single may turn off some initial fans.

Michael Jackson - Hold My Hand /ft. Akon

2010-12-16T10:10:00.000-08:00

Album: Michael

There has been controversy surrounding this song, as some have said that the voice doesn’t sound like Michael Jackson’s. I think it does, though maybe not as strong as he used to sound. I’ve only heard snippets of Michael’s latest album, but there are a few songs that could turn into next single and do well on the radio.

My Chemical Romance - Sing

2010-12-16T10:09:00.000-08:00

Album: Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys

I was worried that I may not like My Chemical Romance’s latest album, since I recalled reading a magazine interview where Gerard Way said that the new album is going to be more ‘punk’ as opposed to theatrical rock that made The Black Parade so good. But the new album still has that sound, particularly this latest single.

Nicki Minaj - Roman's Revenge /ft. Eminem

2010-12-16T10:08:00.000-08:00

Album: Pink Friday

I read an interesting interview of Nicki Minaj. She started out in the mixtape by being a bit of Lil Kim/Foxy Brown, using P-words and C-words. But lately, Nicki has realized that she has a lot of younger fans, like 8 year olds, and she no longer feels comfortable shouting, “where my bitches at!” at concerts, and lately calls them her “barbies.” I think she is by far the hottest female MC today, and even in the company of men, I would list her as one of the best. How she can go from one bar to the next, completely changing her character reminds me of Eminem, and this track proves that she can spit next to the best rapper and still make her sound good.

Robyn - Indestructible

2010-12-16T10:07:00.000-08:00

Album: Body Talk

Robyn has been nailing her singles, and gaining a lot of new fans (and winning back a lot of older fans who’s known her since the 90s). Her “Body Talk” EPs have been very successful, and she compiled the three EPs for this album. This is one brilliant electronic-pop album.

Weezer - Unbreak My Heart

2010-12-16T10:06:00.000-08:00

Album: Death To False Metal

Weezer has been talking about releasing an album called ‘Odds and Ends’ comprised of band’s leftover materials for the past couple of years. And here it is, now titled Death to False Metal. One of the highlights from the album is the cover of Toni Braxton’s song, “Unbreak My Heart.” When Rivers sings it, there is poignancy and you just want to cheer up the guy.

Bon Jovi - What Do You Got?

2010-11-30T07:24:00.000-08:00

Album: Greatest Hits - The Ultimate Collection

Bon Jovi released their greatest hits (second time, since 1994’s Cross Road), with a couple of new songs, including “What Do You Got?” Although the song or the album was not a major success in the US, it is doing extremely well in Japan. Both the album and single reached #1 there. No wonder Bon Jovi likes to tour in Japan so frequently.

Bruno Mars - Grenade

2010-11-30T07:22:00.000-08:00

Album: Doo-Wops & Hooligans

When Bruno Mars came out, he had clean cut pop singer image, but recently he was arrested for possession of cocaine. Despite his recent arrest, this guy can write and sing great pop songs. He has already proven himself with Travie McCoy’s “Billionaire” and Cee-lo’s “F**k You”. His latest single is also addicting and climbing up the chart.

Charlie Hunter - More Than This /ft. Norah Jones

2010-11-30T07:21:00.000-08:00

Album: Featuring Norah Jones

Norah Jones recently released an album with songs where she was featured on other artists’ albums. In the past decade, she has worked with numerous musicians from the legendary ones like Ray Charles, Willie Nelson as well as rockers like Foo Fighters, and even hip-hop artists such as Outkast, Q-Tip and Talib Kweli. One of the tracks from the album is Roxy’s cover song, “More Than This” with Charlie Hunter. This song was recorded right before Norah Jones signed with Blue Note, after Hunter heard the demo (the same demo that got her to sign to the label). This track has become top 10 song in Japan recently.

Chris Brown - Deuces [Remix] /ft. Drake, T.I., Kanye West, Fabolous, Rick Ross & Andre 3000

2010-11-30T07:20:00.000-08:00

Album: Deuces Remix

Chris Brown has been trying to regain his fans after the incident with his then-girlfriend Rihanna. He was able to get a lot of famous rapper friends to spit verses on his recent single, “Deuces.” That’s an impressive lineup if you got Drake, T.I., and Kanye West, but that’s just the first half. Fabolous, Rick Ross and Andre 3000 of Outkast also appear on this remix.

Hugo - 99 Problems

2010-11-30T07:19:00.000-08:00

Album: 99 Problems (Single)

Hugo has a very interesting background. He was born in theUK, but grew up in Thailand. One of the songs he wrote, “Disappear” was picked up Beyonce on her I Am Sasha Fierce album, and since then he was signed onto Jay-Z’s label. His debut album is currently in works, but he is gaining attention with the cover of his boss’ song, “99 Problems.” When I originally heard it on the radio, I thought it was Jack White.

JYJ - Ayyy Girl /ft. Kanye West & M. Yusuf

2010-11-30T07:18:00.000-08:00

Album: The Beginning

In the past couple of years, several Korean singers and groups have tried to break through in the US market. This month, it is JYJ’s turn. Korean and Japanese audience will know them as the three guys from their former group TVXQ or Tohoshinki or Dong Bang Shin Ki. As much as I want to cheer these guys on for trying, their singing makes me nervous. It’s not that they are a bad singer, but combined with cheesy lyrics and not-so-sexy accent, it will be hard to sell this to US audience who have no previous contact with Tohoshinki. I do want to give them a credit for being able to drag Kanye West into this.

Kanye West - Monster /ft. Jay-Z, Rock Ross, Nicki Minaj & Bon Iver

2010-11-30T07:17:00.000-08:00

Album: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

Kanye West released his fifth album, the first one since interrupting Taylor Swift’s speech at 2009 MTV Video Music Award. The album was on sale at Amazon MP3 for only $3.99 during the Black Friday week (considering that they were giving away $3 free coupon on top of that, it was a really good deal). The current single, Monster is a good track which features Nicki Minaj who kills it once again. Currently on Kanyest.com, you can see the half an hour movie he directed and stars in, which features music from his latest album.

Katy Perry - Firework

2010-11-30T07:16:00.000-08:00

Album: Teenage Dream

Katy Perry is on a roll. Here is another single that’s cracking in top 10. On this music video, she gets to blow fireworks from her chest (though the video is a bit more on the serious side compared to her other videos).

Kesha - We R Who We R

2010-11-30T07:15:00.000-08:00

Album: Cannibal

Initially Kesha was going to re-release her hugely successful debut album, Animal, with several additional tracks, but the label decided to release these 9 new songs as EP instead. This single, “We R Who We R” is already a huge success and climbing up the Billboard chart.

Ne-Yo - Beautiful Monster

2010-11-30T07:14:00.000-08:00

Album: Libra Scale

Ne-Yo’s album has been pushed back a little, but this single, “Beautiful Monster” was already a big hit in the UK back in the summer. The fourth album, Libra Scale, feels a lot like Michael Jackson album, especially this track.

Christina Perri - Jar Of Hearts

2010-11-20T21:25:00.001-08:00

Album: Jar Of Hearts (Single)

Philadelphia singer-songwriter, Christina Perri got her lucky break when her song, “Jar of Hearts” was used on “So You Think You Can Dance” TV dance competition back in the summer. The song was an immediate success on iTunes. I was hoping to review her song until her EP, The Ocean Way Sessions, came out, but that album only contains her live recordings. The date for her full album debut has not been announced yet.

Duck Sauce - Barbra Streisand

2010-11-20T21:24:00.000-08:00

Album: Barbra Streisand (Single)

Duck Sauce consists of popular house music DJ, Armand Van Helden and long- time Kanye West’s DJ, A-Trak. Their collaboration single, “Barbra Streisand” was a huge hit in the Europe, breaking top 5 in numerous countries. The song has addictive beats with occasional vocal of someone saying, “Barbra Streisand” for not particular reason (in the interview they said that it could’ve been any word). The music video is a fun New York homage with lots of cameo appearance from Kanye West to Pharrel Williams.

Fran Healy - Sing Me To Sleep /ft. Neko Case

2010-11-20T21:23:00.000-08:00

Album: Wreckorder

Fran Healy may not be a common name in the US, but he is the lead singer for the British band, Travis who are huge in Europe. Wreckorder is his first solo effort, and for this track, he gets help from Neko Case.

Matt & Kim - Block After Block

2010-11-20T21:22:00.000-08:00

Album: Sidewalks

After having a huge hit with “Daylight” in 2009 thanks to the feature spot on Bacardi commercial, smiling duo Matt & Kim are releasing their third album, Sidewalks. I wasn’t a huge fan of the single, “Cameras” but really enjoyed this track, “Block After Block.”

Middle Class Rut - New Low

2010-11-20T21:20:00.000-08:00

Album: No Name No Color

Middle Class Rut consists of vocalist/guitarist Zack Lopez and drummer Sean Stockham. This single, “New Low” had been Sacramento locals’ favorite since 2007, but now they are starting to get national attention. They released their full length album this past October.

N.E.R.D. - Hot N Fun /ft. Nelly Furtado

2010-11-20T21:19:00.000-08:00

Album: Nothing

I’m not quite sure why this latest N.E.R.D. album was not promoted that heavily. Their first single, “Ho N Fun” featuring Nelly Furtado, wasn’t a huge hit in the US, which could be the reason for the slow sale as well. But the beat is the usual Neptunes style.

OneRepublic - Secrets

2010-11-20T21:18:00.000-08:00

Album: Waking Up

This song has been all over the radio as well as TV and movie theaters recently, thanks to heavily promoted Anne Hathaway and Jake Gyllenhaal’s new romantic film, “Love and Other Drugs”. Like other Ryan Tedder’s hits, this song has big sounds and catchy tune.

Pink - Raise Your Glass

2010-11-20T21:17:00.000-08:00

Album: Greatest Hits...So Far!!!

After releasing five successful platinum albums, Pink is due for a greatest hits album. The album contains all of her hits from “Get the Party Started” to more recent, “So What”. The album also features two new songs, including this Billboard hit, “Raise Your Glass” as well as “Fuckin’ Perfect.”

Rihanna - What's My Name? /ft. Drake

2010-11-20T21:15:00.000-08:00

Album: Loud

Despite having so many hits, Rihanna still has not had a #1 album of the week in her native US. She already has two hits from her fifth album, Loud, “Only Girl (In the World)” as well as “What’s My Name”. However, it looks like she will be blocked for the #1 title by Susan Boyle this year.

Weezer - Kids / Poker Face

2010-11-20T21:14:00.000-08:00

Album: iTunes Originals - Weezer

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I’ve been waiting to purchase this track from iTunes for a long time. It was available on some weird package deal, where you had to buy the entire album collection, just to get this song. But now this awesome hybrid cover song is available for a single download. Weezer has been playing this song live on their shows. One some shows, Rivers put on blonde wig to show his inner GaGa. His rapping sounds quite like Lady GaGa as well.

D.O.G.S. - Go Down

2010-10-30T18:53:00.000-07:00

Album: Over The Walls EP

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D.O.G.S. is Japanese indie grunge rock band, that has been struggling to maintain full band member for the past several years. Within that struggle, the lead singer, Koji Tamura and guitarist Katsumi Yokota managed to recruit semi-temporary members to finally record this EP titled, Over The Walls. To launch this album, D.O.G.S. decided to head to Seattle to do a mini tour, the place where they have always dreamed of playing. The track “Go Down” is one of the stand outs from the new album, and was also the crowd favorite in Seattle. Check out their official website: http://dogs-official.com/

Gin Blossoms - Miss Disarray

2010-10-30T18:52:00.001-07:00

Album: No Chocolate Cake

I thought this was Gin Blossom’s first album since the mid 90s, but apparently they have released an album in 2006, that hardly got any attention. Arizona rock band, famous for pop rock songs such as “Hey Jealousy” and “Til I Hear It From You” is back for another attempt with their fifth album, No Chocolate Cake. Although the album was a #1 album on Amazon MP3 album chart on the day of the release, they lost momentum. Hearing this single makes me think about the mid-90s again.

Good Charlotte - Like It's Her Birthday

2010-10-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

Album: Cardiology

Lead singer Joel Madden had two kids with Nicole Richie, and this is his first album since he has become a father. In the interview, they have stated that this new album will be more punk-rock oriented instead of dance pop. I have only listened to this single, and not the whole album, but it sounds quite pop to me. Actually I kind of like it.

Kid Cudi - Erase Me /ft. Kanye West

2010-10-30T18:50:00.000-07:00

Album: Man On The Moon 2: The Legend of Mr. Rager

Kanye West’s protégé, Kid Cudi teams up with his master for the lead single from his upcoming album, to be released in early November. Kid Cudi follows the similar formula as his previous album, where he leans on the rock side. The new album will have other featured vocalists such as Cee-Lo Green and Mary J. Blige.

Kylie Minogue - Get Outta My Way

2010-10-30T18:49:00.000-07:00

Album: Aphrodite

Aussie diva, Kylie Minogue has another dance hit song. Although non-dance song listener may not be aware of this song’s success, but “Get Outta My Way” has been on #1 on dance chart for some time now. “Get Outta My Way” is on Kylie’s eleventh studio album, Aphrodite.

Linkin Park - Waiting For The End

2010-10-30T18:48:00.000-07:00

Album: A Thousand Suns

I was quite excited for Linkin Park’s latest album, since I really liked their first single, The Catalyst. But once I downloaded the entire album from Amazon MP3, I was a bit disappointed that it sounded a repeat from their previous album, Minutes To Midnight. A lot of the user reviews on iTunes also prove the point. Some have said that two bad albums in a row is the last straw and they will not purchase any more of their albums. I almost share the same sentiment, except they do have a couple of decent songs on the album. I’m not a huge fan of this particular track, but hopefully their next album, they will go back to harder sound.

Nelly - Just A Dream

2010-10-30T18:47:00.000-07:00

Album: 5.0

Multi platinum artist, Nelly’s last album, Brass Knuckles from 2008 didn’t do so well (even though it went Gold). None of the singles from that album broke top 20. Dirty South rapper Nelly is releasing his fifth album, titled 5.0, which already has top 3 hit, Just A Dream. Could this be his comeback album?

Rihanna - Only Girl (In The World)

2010-10-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

Album: Loud

It has only been a year since Rihanna released hit filled album, Rated R. The fifth album, titled Loud, to be released in mid November already has a hit club song, “Only Girl (In The World).

Shakira - Loca /ft. Dizzee Rascal

2010-10-30T18:45:00.001-07:00

Album: Sale El Sol

Exactly one year ago this month, Shakira released the album, She Wolf, which failed to generate much hits, except for the titled track. The new single from her seventh album, Sale El Sol (meaning The Sun Comes Out), features the track, Loca, which has UK rapper Dizzee Rascal as a guest. The track is a moderate success in the US, but became #1 in numerous European countries.

Waka Flocka Flame - No Hands /ft. Roscoe Dash & Wale

2010-10-30T18:43:00.000-07:00

Album: Flockaveli

Waka Flocka Flame is a member of 1017 Brick Squad which also featured Gucci Mane, OJ Da Juiceman Wooh Da Kid amongst others. His debut album, Flockaveli is doing quite well, mostly thanks to this hit rap track, “No Hands” which features Roscoe Dash and Wale.

Far East Movement - Like A G6 /ft. Cataracs & Dev

2010-10-13T07:22:00.000-07:00

Album: Free Wired

When I first heard this song, and saw that it was climbing up on the charts, I didn’t particularly think much of it. Then I read that Far East Movement consist of all Asian members from different background; Chinese/Japanese, Korean and Filipino, and that boosted my curiosity. Now this single has climbed up to #2 on the Billboard chart, and their major debut album just came out.

Finger Eleven - Living In A Dream

2010-10-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

Album: Life Turns Electric

Canadian rock group had a breakthrough hit with “Paralyzer” in 2007, and they are hoping to repeat that success with the new album, Life Turns Electric, which is their sixth studio album. The lead off single, “Living In A Dream” follows the similar formula of “Paralyzer” and getting decent radio play.

John Legend & The Roots - Wake Up Everybody /ft. Common & Melanie Fiona

2010-10-13T07:20:00.000-07:00

Album: Wake Up!

There is no doubt that John Legend is this generation’s hottest R&B star. And there is also no doubt that The Roots is one of the most talented musical groups. If they decide to work together, there is gotta be some good stuff. The album is mostly covers of not-so-popular soul music from the 60s and 70s. This single has been around for a while, but I hadn’t really listened to it until the album came out recently. “Wake Up Everybody” is a cover of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes cover.

Kanye West - Runaway /ft. Pusha T

2010-10-13T07:19:00.000-07:00

Album: Runaway (Single)

Kanye West performed this song live on this year’s MTV Video Music Award, and it was by far one of the most memorable performances of the night (since others were fairly safe and dull). The piano intro, reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut, sets the tone, and Kanye cruises through with his usual wordplay. This time he also gets a little help from Clipse’s Pusha T. It’s because Kanye creates songs like this, we are still willing to “toast to the asshole” as the song lyric goes.

Kings Of Leon - Radioactive

2010-10-13T07:17:00.000-07:00

Album: Come Around Sundown

After having a monster success with their previous album, Only by the Night, which included hits like “Sex On Fire” and “Use Somebody”, southern rock band, Kings of Leon are about to launch their fifth album. The anticipation is quite high for this album, and the lead-off single, “Radioactive” is already a #1 hit on the Alternative chart.

KT Tunstall - Lost

2010-10-13T07:16:00.000-07:00

Album: Tiger Suit

Scottish singer/songwriter KT Tunstall’s first two studio albums have both charted top 3 in UK, but this one peaked at #5. Although I consider myself to be a moderate fan of KT (I’ve been to her concert), I didn’t particularly like her first two singles. When I was checking iTunes, for some reason, this was the most downloaded song from her latest album, even though it’s not listed as a single. I did enjoy this track though.

My Chemical Romance - Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na)

2010-10-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

Album: Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys

The reason why it took so long for My Chemical Romance to come out with a new album was because after they finished recording their album, they realized that they didn’t like it and decided to start all over again. As I felt that “Welcome to Black Parade” made such a huge impact in the rock music five years ago, I’m still trying to get used to this new sound, but I’m liking what I hear so far. Their album, Danger Days will be released in late November.

My Darkest Days - Porn Star Dancing /ft. Chad Kroeger of Nickelback & Ludacris

2010-10-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

Album: My Darkest Days

This new Canadian rock band is led by Matt Walst, whose brother is a bassist for Three Days Grace. They were discovered by Chad Kroeger of Nickelback and he is also featured on this song, along with former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Zakk Wylde, and rapper Ludacris. It’s fairly forgettable track. I just wished Ludacris had bigger part.

Papa Roach - Kick In The Teeth

2010-10-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

Album: Time For Annihilation: On the Record & On the Road

Papa Roach’s latest album is a hybrid of new songs and live recording of some of their biggest hits including, “Getting Away with Murder” and “Last Resort.” The new single from the album has peaked at #3 on the rock chart.

Trey Songz - Bottoms Up /ft. Nicki Minaj

2010-10-13T07:09:00.000-07:00

Album: Passion, Pain & Pleasure

I first heard of this R&B singer in 2007 when he had the hit, “Can’t Help But Wait.” Trey’s fourth album, Passion, Pain & Pleasure only has one standout track, and that’s this one, only because Nicki Minaj nails her part. This just makes me anticipate for her debut album even more. With Missy Elliott not releasing anything recently, Nicki is hands down the hottest female MC in the game right now.

Bruno Mars - Just The Way You Are

2010-09-30T08:47:00.000-07:00

Album: Doo-Wops & Hooligans

Hawaiian producer/singer, Bruno Mars is on a super hot streak right now. He started out by being featured on B.o.B’s, “Nothin’ On You” as well as Travie McCoy’s “Billionaire.” His produced track, “F**k You!” for Cee-lo Green is a hit as well, and Bruno Mars is about to release his debut album, which includes the #1 single, “Just the Way You Are.”

Florence + The Machine - Dog Days Are Over

2010-09-30T08:45:00.002-07:00

Album: Lungs

Ever since they performed at MTV Video Music Award, this song has been getting a lot of airplays, and it was on top 10 of iTunes download list. For those of you who caught on to the fever, they have been a popular act in their native country of UK for a couple of years now, including the single, “You’ve Got the Love.”

Ice Cube - I Rep That West /ft. Jigg

2010-09-30T08:45:00.001-07:00

Album: I Am The West

West coast rapper, Ice Cube is starting to be known more as an actor or film director than a rapper nowadays, especially to kids, who didn’t grow up listening to N.W.A. Initially Ice Cube has mentioned that his fellow NWA star, Dr. Dre will be providing beats to a couple of tracks, but none made to the final album. But on this track, Ice Cube reminds us why he is still the king of West coast rap.

Jimmy Eat World - My Best Theory

2010-09-30T08:44:00.001-07:00

Album: Invented

Arizona rock band, Jimmy Eat World’s seventh album, Invented was released in end of September. The lead off single, “My Best Theory” is already a hit on rock and alternative charts. For this latest album, Jimmy Eat World teamed with Mark Trombino, who produced their earlier albums including Clarity and Bleed American.

Kanye West - Power /ft. Dwele

2010-09-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

Album: Power (Single)

Although Taylor Swift and Kanye West both performed at this year’s MTV Video Music Award, there was no collaboration or opening skit including those two. I expected him to perform this single at the show, but instead, he performed a brand new song, “Runaway” which is still not available for purchase. I liked that performance, so for that, I’m recommending his latest single titled “Power” which samples King Crimson’s “21st Century Schizoid Man”.

Mark Ronson - Bang Bang Bang /ft. MNDR & Q-Tip

2010-09-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

Album: Record Collection

Mark Ronson, who is famous for bringing the soul back, for producing for Amy Winehouse and his own hit album, decided to ditch horns for 80s keyboard sound. Since I enjoyed the throwback soul sound, I was disappointed to hear that, but as a talented producer, he had to move on. Not sure how successful his new album will be, as it’s not as catchy as his previous one. Perhaps for his third album, he may go back to the soul sound once again.

Santana - While My Guitar Gently Weeps /ft. India.Arie & Yo-Yo Ma

2010-09-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

Album: Guitar Heaven: The Greatest Guitar Classics of All Time

Guitar god, Santana has been asking famous musician friends to sing on his albums for the past decade or so. He uses the same formula again, except this time, covering famous rock songs that are known as “the greatest guitar classics of all time.” 90s rock fans should be excited to see the featured guest vocalists such as Chris Cornell (Soundgarden, Audioslave), Scott Weiland (Stone Temple Pilots), and Gavin Rossdale (Bush), as well as Chester Bennington (Linkin Park), Jacoby Shaddix (Papa Roach) and Chris Daughtry (Daughtry). Even rapper Nas makes an appearance.

Soundgarden - Black Rain

2010-09-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Album: Telephantasm

With Chris Cornell’s “pop” album collaboration with Timbaland failing, rock fans around the world anticipated for the Soundgarden reunion. And here it is! They reunited to play for a couple of live shows, including a headlining gig at Lollapalooza this past summer. They released a compilation album, Telephantasm, which includes an unreleased track, “Black Rain” from Badmotorfinger recording session. They haven’t announced that they will record a new song yet, but since the guys looked like they had a blast playing together, fans can hope for a new album, hopefully within a year.

Underworld - Always Loved A Film

2010-09-30T08:36:00.000-07:00

Album: Barking

UK electronic musicians Underworld released their 8th album, Barking. Although the album failed to break Billboard top 100 album, they have been warmly welcomed in other countries, including Japan which boosted this single to #1. On the latest album, there is a collaboration track with Paul Van Dyk titled, Diamond Jigsaw.

Weezer - Memories

2010-09-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

Album: Hurley

Weezer decided to go indie for their 8th album, titled Hurley and signed onto Epitaph. As usual, they chose another silly looking cover, this time, using the actor, Jorge Garcia, an actor who played ‘Hurley’ on the TV show “Lost”. Weezer announced that they will play two consecutive nights of concerts in selective cities (so far San Francisco, LA, Boston and NY), with the first night playing the debut “Blue Album” in its entirety and “Pinkerton” the next night. Recently, Weezer was joined by My Chemical Romance during “My Name Is Jonas” performance.

Brandon Flowers - Crossfire

2010-09-15T08:44:00.000-07:00

Album: Flamingo

While the Las Vegas rock band, The Killers take a break, front man Brandon Flowers will be releasing his first solo album. The first single, “Crossfire” is already a rock radio hit. In the bloody music video, Flowers managed to get Charlie Theron and bunch of ninjas to star in. I feel like there are a lot of “beating up” music videos nowadays, including this one as well as Eminem’s “Love the Way You Lie”, Maroon 5’s “Misery” and Filter’s “The Inevitable Relapse.”

Cee-Lo Green - Fuck You!

2010-09-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

Album: Fuck You! (Single)

From the title, and how it became an internet sensation, you would think it’s just a novelty song, but this is a good song. Gnarls Barkley’s vocalist, Cee-Lo Green will be releasing his solo album this winter, and from the sound of this single, it’s going to be a good fun soulful record.

Chiddy Bang - Opposite Of Adults

2010-09-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

Album: Opposite Of Adults EP

If you are a MGMT fan, you would know from the first few seconds of this song, that they sampled, “Kids.” Philadelphia hip-hop duo, Chiddy Bang samples indie rock music in their rap songs (such as MGMT and Passion Pit). I have been waiting for them to release their debut album this Fall, but release date keeps getting pushed back. At least there is this EP to enjoy meanwhile.

Chromeo - Don't Turn The Lights On

2010-09-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

Album: Business Casual

Something about these two Canadian boys make them seem likable. Maybe because they joke about how one is Arab and the other is Jewish, but still get along great. Or maybe it’s their silly music videos. They will be releasing their third album, Business Casual this month, including, “Don’t Turn the Lights On” which sounds like a mixture of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and bunch of other 80s hits mashed up.

Eminem - No Love /ft. Lil Wayne

2010-09-15T08:40:00.000-07:00

Album: Recovery

The local hip-hop radio station has been playing this song a lot recently, and a week or so later, it was announced that this was Em’s third single from Recovery. Eminem lend a hand for Lil Wayne’s track, “Drop the World” last year and in return, Lil Wayne guest stars on this track, which samples Haddaway’s “What Is Love.”

Filter - The Inevitable Relapse

2010-09-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

Album: The Trouble With Angels

I didn’t realize that Filter had released an album. I was a big fan of Army of Anyone, when Richard Patrick from Filter and Stone Temple Pilots guitarist joined forces. The Trouble With Angels is Filter’s fifth album, and features the single, “The Inevitable Relapse.” It is a bit weird hearing them use auto-tune.

Kaci Battaglia - Body Shots /ft. Ludacris

2010-09-15T08:38:00.000-07:00

Album: Body Shots (Single)

If you are a dance music fan, you may remember a song called, “Paradise” from 2001, sung by then 14 year old artist name, Kaci. Now, that Kaci has grown up at 22, she is singing (or more like moaning a la Britney style) “whip it up, lick it up, suck it down.” The music reminds me of Lil Jon rip off of club song, but not nearly as catchy. Ludacris tries to save the song, but you almost forget that he is even featured on this song. Kaci also had another dance hit last year with “Crazy Possessive.” Her latest album, Bring It On, is to be released sometime later this month.

Robyn - Hang With Me

2010-09-15T08:36:00.000-07:00

Album: Body Talk Pt 2

Swedish pop star, Robyn is on a mission to release a trilogy. She released Body Talk Pt. 1 earlier in the summer, which had dance smash hit, “Dancing On My Own.” On the second series, she releases, “Hang With Me” as her first single. On the album, she attempts electro-rapping along with Snoop Dogg on the track, “U Should Know Better.”

T.I. - Got Your Back /ft. Keri Hilson

2010-09-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

Album: Got Your Back (Single)

I was hoping to review this song, when his latest album dropped, but due to latest news about T.I., his album maybe postponed for some more. After spending 9 months in prison for weapons charge, T.I. is back with this official lead off single, “Got Your Back” featuring Keri Hilson. Although it has been a moderate hit, it didn’t reach top 10 like “Whatever You Like” from two years ago.

Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP - We No Speak Americano

2010-09-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

Album: We No Speak Americano (Single)

These Aussie guys have an international hit with “We No Speak Americano.” It has reached #1 in numerous countries in Europe. The name Yoland Be Cool comes from a line in Pulp Fiction (when Samuel L. Jackson’s character tries to calm down the female robber). It is repetitive, but it sure stays in your head.

Buckcherry - All Night Long

2010-08-31T07:26:00.000-07:00

Album: All Night Long

If AC/DC hadn’t done it 30 years ago with “You Shook Me All Night Long” this song might feel fresh, but unfortunately that’s not the case. Still it is somewhat catchy and became a top 10 rock hit in the US. The fifth album, also titled, All Night Long, was released earlier this August.

Die Antwoord - Enter The Ninja

2010-08-31T07:25:00.000-07:00

Album: 5 - EP

I’ve been reading about this South African white rap group, and for some reason, I always thought they were “Die Antwood”. “Die Antwoord” means “The Answer” in Afrikaans, and this rap group delivers in both English and Arikaans. The music video for this track became a viral sensation, leading them to sign with Interscope who recently released the EP album.

Fitz & The Tantrums - MoneyGrabber

2010-08-31T07:24:00.000-07:00

Album: Pickin' Up The Pieces

I hadn’t heard anything about them until I downloaded this song from Amazon MP3 free daily download. If you liked Amy Winehouse or Mark Ronson’s soul throwback tracks, this one is for you. This LA band got a lucky break by opening for Maroon 5, and now they were even featured on Justin Timberlake’s blog. They sound like they would put on a kick ass live show.

Kelis - 4th of July (Fireworks)

2010-08-31T07:23:00.000-07:00

Album: Flesh Tone

Kelis went from screaming rock-chick (remember “Caught Out There”) to hip-hop milkshake queen, and now she is going for techno. She has already succeeded by placing her first single, “Acapella” to top of dance charts and UK pop success. This song reminds me a lot of Madonna’s “Hung Up.”

Linkin Park - The Catalyst

2010-08-31T07:22:00.000-07:00

Album: A Thousand Suns

Linkin Park’s previous (third) album, Minutes to Midnight was their least successful album so far, and some have put blame on legendary producer Rick Rubin’s involvement. On some songs, they did sound a bit like U2, which distanced a lot of their core fans. I was a huge fan of their first two albums, but hardly listen to Minutes. I’m hoping that their next album, coming out in September would be a good one, which is also produced by Rick Rubin. At least this single sounds cool.

Maroon 5 - Misery

2010-08-31T07:21:00.000-07:00

Album: Hands All Over

LA soul-rock-pop group Maroon 5 is considered to be one of the biggest rock band in the 2000s, but their new album, Hands All Over, to be released in September is still only their third. The lead off single, “Misery” was released in June, but has not fully caught on the charts, peaking at #17 on US Hot 100.

Sara Bareilles - King Of Anything

2010-08-31T07:20:00.000-07:00

Album: Kaleidoscope Heart

Although Sara Bareilles had a couple of minor hits after “Love Song”, she is still by in large, considered a one-hit wonder. With her highly anticipated sophomore album coming out in September, she has a lot to prove. The first single, “King of Anything” is already a decent hit, but could it reach top 10? It is a catchy song, and I think it could do it.

Sting - Englishman In New York [Symphony]

2010-08-31T07:19:00.000-07:00

Album: Symphonicities

Sting has toured with his old bandmates, The Police, and it seems like there is not much more to do for him, but he has decided to team up with orchestra symphony to put a little spin on his favorites and rarities. This symphonic remix of “Englishman In New York” has turned into a top 10 hit in Japan.

Stone Sour - Say You'll Haunt Me

2010-08-31T07:18:00.000-07:00

Album: Audio Secrecy

Lead singer from Slipknot’s side project, Stone Sour, is back with their third album, Audio Secrecy. Their previous album, which contained the hit track, “Through Glass” was a major success. They are hoping to repeat the success with working with the same producer, Nick Raskulinecz, who is famous for producing Foo Fighter’s hit albums.

Usher - DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love /ft. Pitbull

2010-08-31T07:17:00.000-07:00

Album: Versus

Usher is on top again, thanks to will.i.am featured track, OMG, which was popular over the early summer. He is trekking to the top again with the new single, “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” which is basically a Euro dance pop. This track appears on the deluxe edition of Raymond v. Raymond. Not to upset the fans that had already bought the original Raymond v. Raymond, the label also released, Versus, which only contains the new songs and remixes.

Arcade Fire - Ready To Start

2010-08-20T07:56:00.002-07:00

Album: The Suburbs

Montreal, Canada’s popular indie band, Arcade Fire have been getting a lot of press, with most of them saying that The Suburbs is the album that is going to make them into a huge band. It’s true. They’ve sold out at Madison Garden, and The Suburbs was released to #1 spot on Billboard chart. This album has more pop appeal which could translate to mainstream crossover.

Avenged Sevenfold - Nightmare

2010-08-20T07:56:00.001-07:00

Album: Nightmare

Eminem’s latest album had been #1 for five weeks and it looked as though it would continue to sail on top, or at least that’s what the industry forecasted, since they didn’t think Californian metal rock band, Avenged Sevenfold’s fifth album could do nearly as well. M. Shadow (lead singer) and rest of the members surprised everyone when they knocked “Relapse” from the peak position (though they only stayed there for a single week with Eminem taking the top position back eventually). The band went through turmoil when their drummer The Rev passed away last year, and this is their first album without him.

Beach Fossils - Youth

2010-08-20T07:55:00.001-07:00

Album: Beach Fossils

A friend of mine introduced me to Beach Fossils. When I heard their sound, I thought about Mamas & Papas from distant memory and/or The Drums from more recently memory. They sound like Californian laid back surf band, but they are actually from Brooklyn, New York. Although they’ve been featured on Spinner and Pitchfork magazine, they still don’t even have a Wikipedia entry.

Big Boi - Shutterbugg /ft. Cutty

2010-08-20T07:54:00.000-07:00

Album: Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty

People have been wondering, “When is the next Outkast album coming out?” Both Big Boi and Andre3000 have said that each of them will be releasing solo album first. Big Boi’s album took forever to be released due to label dispute. The label didn’t think the album was a hit material, but it managed to debut at #3 spot, which is not bad. The single, “Shutterbugg” wasn’t a huge success in the US, but it managed to crack top 40 in the UK.

Disturbed - Another Way To Die

2010-08-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

Album: Asylum

Wait, which one is Disturbed? There are several metal rock bands that came out in early 2000s including Slipknot, System of a Down and Godsmack. Disturbed is the one that sang, “Stupify”. They hail from Chicago, and their last three albums have come out as #1 album. Their fifth album, Asylum will be coming out end of this month, and their single, “Another Way to Die” is another catchy headbanger.

Enrique Iglesias - I Like It /ft. Pitbull

2010-08-20T07:52:00.000-07:00

Album: Euphoria

I saw this music video on MTV which features cast of Jersey Shore. Similar to President Obama, I’ve never watched Jersey Shore, and have only heard of some of their names, like Snooki. I didn’t think much about the song, but I kept on hearing it everywhere from supermarket to clubs.

Katy Perry - Teenage Dream

2010-08-20T07:51:00.000-07:00

Album: Teenage Dream

Katy Perry managed to turn herself into a huge star thanks to her mega-hit debut with One of the Boys, two years ago. Her sophomore album seems poised to take her further as the first single, “California Gurls” is one of the biggest hit of 2010 so far, and the second single, Teenage Dream is just as catchy.

Professor Green - Just Be Good To Green /ft. Lily Allen

2010-08-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

Album: Alive Till I'm Dead

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For being white and having a little nasally voice, he is often compared to Eminem. But Professor Green is British, and he doesn’t have the lyrical power that Eminem possess (at least not yet). Still, this collaboration with popstar Lily Allen is a fun sounding track.

The Roots - Dear God 2.0 /ft. Monsters Of Folk

2010-08-20T07:48:00.000-07:00

Album: How I Got Over

How the Late Night host, Jimmy Fallon managed to get The Roots as his house band is quite remarkable, but The Roots are not done being creative. They have mentioned that working on the Late Night made them more musical (sometimes they jam with musical guests), and on their new album, it definitely shows. The track featuring indie supergroup, Monsters of Folk (consists of members from My Morning Jacket, Bright Eyes and M. Ward) is a stand out.

Sia - Clap Your Hands

2010-08-20T07:47:00.000-07:00

Album: We Are Born

Australian singer, Sia, may be well known to Zero 7 fans as she has collaborated with them. Sia has had a busy 2010 so far. She helped write a couple of songs for Christina Aguilera’s new album, Bionic. And she also managed to write and record her own album, We Are Born, which is her fourth album. “Clap Your Hands” is doing well on the dance chart.