This is Part 2 of my list.

These songs are the ones that I will remember most from this year.  It certainly appears that the world of music is beginning its move away from the pop artists that have been so prevalent and returning to the creation and production of some exceptional songs.  About time I’d say.  I attribute this to the web and the ability of many new artists to reach the public through such areas as Bandcamp, soundcloud, YouTube, Twitter etc.  The advent of these devices has greatly expanded my musical horizons and will continue to do so.

I have chosen not to do a finite top ten list as I appreciated all of these songs and at certain times would have been my number 1.  In addition, I have chosen songs new to me this year, meaning they could be from anytime, although the majority are 2012.  I hope you enjoy.

The Echo Friendly – Same Mistakes

Haunting melody, interesting harmonies, good video.  This one snuck up on me and really grew on me.

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The Black Keys – Gold On The Ceiling

These guys are on a roll.  Hope they keep it up.  El Camino is a great album.  Hope they don’t become the Gallagher’s redux.

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Dave Matthews Band – Mercy

I suggest 2 things, in either order.  Close your eyes and listen to the lyrics and let the sound wash through you, then open them and watch the video.  Great song and message.

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Mo Kenney – Sucker

This video is a duet with a favourite of mine, Joel Plaskett.  He produced her album as well.  Beautiful song.

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Mumford & Sons – I Will Wait

I don’t think Phil Spector was thinking banjos when he went with the wall of sound, but it works.  And live, incredible.  Singing lead, playing guitar and hitting the drum pedal.

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Shawn Colvin – All Fall Down

One of those songs where I have absolutely no idea why I like it.  I hate the video, by the way.  Exceptional in its corniness.

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John Mayer – Queen of California

I am an unabashed John Mayer fan.  His consistency is amazing.  Great player as well.

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Phillip Phillips – Home

When I first heard this song on Idol as the required song in the final, I knew there was no way he would lose.  For the first time in American Idol history, the chosen first single for the winner was a perfect match.  I also did something I had never done for an Idol artist, I bought the song.

Related articles

• My Favourite Songs of 2012 (therealcanadianmusicblog.wordpress.com)