October 19, 2005
One of the best things about today's online music services is the opportunity to purchase individual songs for unlimited listening regardless of whether or not they have been released as a single. Each week I uncover some of the best pop tracks to download from online music services. The music will range widely across pop genres. The tracks listed may not be available at all of the major online music services.
Read lists from previous weeks.
1. Bryan Adams - Cuts Like a Knife
In honor of the release of his career-spanning Anthology collection, I'm revisiting one of his earliest hits this week. "Cuts Like a Knife" still sounds great with the raspy voice and easy singalong lyrics.
2. Depeche Mode - John the Revelator
The early buzz is that the new album Playing the Angel is the best Mode since their Violator breakthrough 15 years back. This track is a good example of why. It's a critique on fundamentalist religion with trademark dark synth textures, a gospel chorus, Dave Gahan vocals that have never sounded better, and a vicious swing to the rhythm.
3. Melissa Etheridge - Piece Of My Heart
Melissa Etheridge is one of the most talented women in rock, and her recovery from breast cancer over the past year is truly inspiring. This is a snarling studio version of the Janis Joplin classic that Etheridge performed at the 2005 Grammy Awards ceremony taken from Greatest Hits - The Road Less Traveled.
4. Eurythmics - I've Got a Life
Dance mixes of the upcoming Eurythmics single are available for download online. Just like Madonna, they are embracing the disco aesthetic. Dancing is back in. Take a peak at the video.
5. Alicia Keys - Stolen Moments
The new album Unplugged reminds us just what a fantastic performer Alicia Keys is. "Stolen Moments" is a sweet little track co-written with r&b legend Al Green.
6. North American Hallowe'en... - Do They Know It's Halloween?
It's a takeoff on the benefit classic Do They Know It's Christmas?, and it's sweet, cute, and a great benefit for charity, too. All the proceeds go to UNICEF. Beck, Elvira, Sum 41's Stevo, and Sonic Youth's Thurston Moore are just a few of the alt-rock performers featured on this record. Visit the North American Hallowe'en Prevention Initiative Official Site
7. Santana feat. Mary J. Blige and Big Boi - My Man
It's an exclusive on Rhapsody right now, but Santana's new album All That I Am will soon be spreading to the other music services soon and is in stores November 1st. Mary J.'s vocals sound great pared with Carlos Santana's sweet guitar work.
8. Ashlee Simpson - L.O.V.E.
Ashlee Simpson's new album I Am Me includes a number of memorable songs. "L.O.V.E." is a treat for all of you out there still hooked on "Hollaback Girl." Listen and you will understand why.
9. Rod Stewart w/ Diana Ross - I've Got a Crush On You
Rod Stewart's 4th collection of pop standards, Thanks For the Memory, is out now, and this is a sweet excerpt. Diana Ross sounds great. Pour the wine, curl up on the couch, and enjoy.
10. Brian Wilson - Christmasey
The Beach Boys' sound architect is early out of the gate with his Christmas collection What I Really Want For Christmas. This original song, co-written with Jimmy Webb, and filled with Beach Boys-style vocals and horns, is wonderful.
