I posted my list of favorite from the first half of 2017 back in July (here). Rather than replicate that list for my full year review, consider this a continuation — the best songs from the second half of the year.
(from the Rootsy Music release Gold Rush)
I was hooked on this song from the opening blast of electric guitar. It only got better from there, bristling with a powerful rock intensity.
(from the Tallest Man Records release No Cause for Alarm)
The song’s simplicity, not to mention the subdued but roughhewn arrangement, is hypnotizing.
(from the New West Records release Last of the True)
Fauss’s tale of mill town life begs to be part of the soundtrack to your next road trip. Guest vocals from Ben Kweller just add to the song’s free-wheeling charm.
(from the EDLO Records release Anchors)
The emotion and honesty of Hoge’s ode to a broken marriage is simultaneously entrancing and heart-breaking.
(from the Blue Blade Records release The Wild)
Well time don’t fly it only crawls in circles on the kitchen wall
And a song just ain’t no use at all if there’s no one who can play it
(from the True North Records release Love Versus)
I’m not sure what I appreciate more about this song, the uplifting joy of Stagger’s plea for a return to civility or his call for people to “drop a dollar on a song, maybe read a couple books, get off of your goddamn phone.”
(from the self-released Anything Could Happen)
On any given day, one of five songs from Anything Could Happen would take the spot on this list. I’m giving this one the nod today, in part for the cool video that accompanies it. As the man says, “Barkeep, make mine a double shot!”
(from the Lauren Records release Cowgirl Blues)
Anika Pyle and crew blast through the song in just over 2 minutes but there’s a good chance that you’ll be hitting repeat. I always do.
(from the self-released Upstream)
Power pop songs are generally in the three minute range but the Rationales stretch this epic into nearly seven minutes of guitar-driven bliss. Watch out for the fist-pumping chorus.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.