12. Lykke Li - "I Follow Rivers"
A beautiful film clip for the second single from Li's Wounded Rhymes album. I love this - the video is amazingly stark and emotive, and showcases the sophisticated electronic/pop aesthetic that permeates her 2011 release. Li balances highly accessible melodies and danceable rhythms on this album, with a darker sound that at times references the American South and spiritual music (Hammond organs, handclaps, fast tremolo guitars, tribal drums - see: Get Some, Youth Knows No Pain). Equally a softer side is exposed with reaching ballads like Love Out of Lust and Sadness is a Blessing.
13. Slow Club - "Two Cousins"
Do you remember Slow Club's 2010 single Giving Up On Love? I don't, quite unfortunately. I kinda wish, too, that I could have added Dance Til The Morning Light to my late-night playlist. Thankfully I've caught up on all that Slow Club have to offer and was pleased when they released their second album Paradise this year. Who can watch the clip for Two Cousins and not walk away with a smile on your face?
14. M83 - "Midnight City"
Amazingly, the terrifying-if-you-heard-it-at-night yell-riff that opens M83's Midnight City manages to avoid becoming annoying through repetition. Complete with sax solo and a Children of the Corn-like film clip, Midnight City is gonna bring back the 80s if you like it or not.
And some songs you couldn't help but listen to this year:
Foster The People - Pumped Up Kicks
Adele - Someone Like You
Lana Del Ray - Video Games
Admit it, 'cause I know you did.
