#25: Bicep - Opal (Four Tet Remix)
A match made in heaven and speaking of heaven, this may be its soundtrack. It is epic resounding resplendence, brilliant bleepy beauty, a sweep you off your feet soaring success. Like a journey deeper into your unconscious mind, things get both more murky and more clear at the same time. If there's any track in this list that is best suited for a spiritual awakening it is this. Turn off all your lights, lie on the floor and let Four Tet transport you to his higher plane of existence.
#24: Bunji Garlin & Busta Rhymes - Drop It
(As featured on EFYE) I can't think of any track that can quite compare to the dueling fire flows in this, except for the other time these two locked horns on "Differentology." As I said the first time I wrote about this, it's as though Bunji and Busta both go super saiyan at the same time murdering everything in sight. That said you cannot leave out 1st Klase who's production is pure perfection, doing not just the big things right, but paying attention to the little details in the bed squeak, panning and more.
#23: The Night - Set Me Free
No, this is not Nero, but I don't care, it's genuinely gorgeous, funky fun. I'm not sure I'll ever properly get over Alana Watson's voice, she is an absolute sensation, especially atop this dazzling display. The whole track flows like a fantastic voyage aboard the world's most luxurious yacht with a continuous, never ending party. It is flashing lights and flights of fancy, free of fear and devoid of despair. It doesn't get any more upbeat or outrageously uplifting than this ringing resplendence.
#22: Planningtorock - Beulah Loves Dancing
I cannot help but 1) grin ear to ear and 2) sing along to the lyrics, whenever this one comes on. It is exceedingly catchy, heavenly, heartening and brilliantly built. The way the strings play is gorgeous and groovy and the way the electronic bits slide around them is truly sensational. Add in the story elements, and their roles in Powerhouse, and you've got the best track on one of the best albums of the year.
#21: Kevin de Vries - Aratak
Apart from perhaps #7 in this list, there may be no more powerful track released this year. Seeing Monika Kruse drop it with the Eiffel Tower in the background only adds to this incredible intensity, as does the way she played with it. That Cercle set is when I really fell for it, but there's no discounting the unreal alien design and fantastical flare of the studio version. Afterlife as a whole had a fantastic year, but this big build and even more epic release makes for one of the best tracks of the year.
#20: Tom Morello - A Higher Frequency (ft. Serj Tankian & Attlas)
I still can't quite believe that this track exists. There was at least a year in high school where all I listened to was System Of A Down, so you can see how the combination of Serj and Attlas is a match made in my own personal heaven. Of course Tom Morello is no slouch either. So to say this track is cool is an understatement. It is a stunning show of restraint and creativity; a true inspiration. Beyond beautiful, in order to properly describe its exquisite nature I'd have to "look into the meanings of every word of every language" but I don't have the time for that, I'd rather just listen and experience its infinite elegance firsthand.
#19: Nile Rodgers & Chic - Boogie All Night (ft. Nao)
Much like the live version of "Helpline" last year, I once again survived off a version of this featuring again Mura Masa, as Nile Rodgers, Chic and Nao first brought "Boogie All Night" to life on Jools Holland. However unlike last year I was not disappointed with the studio version, in fact it was able to maintain, if not up the raw feel of the live version. This Danny L Harle and Russell Graham (of Air Supply fame) direction is sensational, like a beautiful baptism not by fire but funk. The electronic warmth tickles throughout and the bass is nothing short of brilliant, especially as it kind of tiptoes into the first verse. It is scintillating sweet with its hi-hats and synths, glitzy and glamorous while still animalistic and oh so sensual. The perfect mixture of poise and passion.
#18: Krystal Klear - Neutron Dance (Gerd Janson Birkenstock Remix)
For a while the original had itself firmly entrenched in this list but as soon as I heard Gerd's 'live' mix, I knew he had once again struck gold. As frustrating as it is to continue to go back to the one radio show or mix to hear a unreleased track, it only makes getting the full version that much better. As we get further and further down the list, tracks tend to get more and more catchy, and this certainly fits in that category with Krystal Klear's original allure leading the way. That said, Gerd Janson's genius comes in the way he plays with, and around, that magnificent melody, turning it into an all out dance party that just keeps getting better. The subtle backing vocals inject a bit of necessary tension while still adding to the overall allure, and every time I get to the final section, the organic horns seemingly lift me to heaven. A perfect playful progression that is without a doubt one of the most uplifting, enjoyable tracks of the year.
#17: Alice Glass - Without Love (Mija Remix)
Earlier I mentioned only three DnB tracks made this list, and while I wasn't big into it, I certainly enjoy a lot of it this year. Obviously this was my favourite, in large part thanks to the seemingly perfect pairing of Mija's production with Glass' downtrodden lyrics. And as much as the dark and despair-ridden themes are the core of this creation, that is not to say Glass has given up, there is still fight in her and verily so in Mija's break-driven production. It is beaten but not broken, tortured but triumphant in the end. It is this dual nature and the fantastic flourishes driving this track that make it so special.
#16: Balako - Don't Give Up
(As featured on EFYE) While there are still a handful of disco tracks to come, this take the title for most hip, jazzy concoction of the year. I am no dancer but I just cannot help but get my hips going to this one. The horns are an absolute delight, especially the way they roll into each other and each subsequent section. Much like Cotonete with "Parribean Disco" last year, I'm astounded by and could listen to the little licks, funky fills, punchy piano interjections and all the instrumental interplay for days on end. It is resplendent revelry in beautiful brass, gorgeous grooves and playful progression.
#15: Perfume Genius - Slip Away (Mura Masa Remix)
I still swoon every time I hear this little slice of indie excellence. This is exactly the kind of creation that sets Mura Masa apart from the pack, he does what he wants or what he feels, not what labels or promoters might want. If he wants to make a punk track he'll do it. If he feels like a funk track, it'll happen and it'll be organically awesome. This one just feels right, like the track found its home, an almost serendipitous success. It is both bright and dark, it roars and purrs, it is delicate yet driving, fulsome yet fleeting; it is, like most of these tracks, hard to pin down. Even the lyrics note this paradoxical nature in the line "if you never see them coming, you'll never have to hide." All this aside, the most important part here, and with so many of these tracks, is that you feel it, in the moment, and it speaks to you on a level we cannot express: we feel its truth, its magic.
#14: Sinjin Hawke - Monolith (Overture) [Canblaster Remix]
Another cut from the fantastic First Opus Remixes and this one takes the form of gods at war with each other. Operating on a level unattainable to us mere mortals, this Sinjin Hawke original took home the 23rd spot in our countdown last year, while the album's lead single "Onset" took home the 15th. Metrics aside, the quality of this recasting is enough for you to avert you eyes, as Canblaster goes supernova. Putting to use all of the unreal sounds Hawke laid down last year, this new walking groove is hot enough to make you think you don't need a jacket as you scale Everest. And you might not, as Canblaster's packed this with enough nitro for you ski up the slope in the matter of seconds. The launch countdown takes a while, but the energy rush it worth it; strap in at 1:44 and blast off to infinity and beyond at 2:12. Just be sure to take a picture of our little round earth or else no one will believe you.
#13: DJ Sneak ft. Charlie Sputnik - Psycho Killer (Original OG Mix)
I can't remember how long ago I first saw a tweet mentioning a DJ Sneak remix of "Psycho Killer," but as soon as I saw it I made a note to sporadically search the net for it. And boy when I did eventually find it I was not let down in the least. Major big props to Charlie Sputnik for the spot on delivery, although facetiously I know I could do it too. But really the brilliance of this track is DJ Sneak's uber addictive acid reconstruction. It works wonders and, unlike other takes of this classic, plays perfectly with the iconic bass-line. Frantic and fantastic, it is maniacally good fun.
#12: Wuki - Go Deep (ft. Nicky Da B)
Wuki has been doing damage for years now but thanks to his rave and rage friendly WUKILEAKS, and other 'more' official releases, 2018 was his biggest year to date. Using twerk legend Nicky Da B's vocals atop a near spiritual companion to "Express Yourself," this track is fast and furious fire. Unlike just about any track you've heard all year, even Wuki himself wondered aloud what it should be classified as. No matter what you want to call it, it does damage. The bass-line is sick wicked and nasty, and the whole thing hella hype up fun. So stop reading and turn up, both your sound and your self.
#11: Chromeo - Count Me Out
As I mentioned with "One Track Mind," these two tracks could easily flip flop, but again as I press play on this one I'm right back into the lyrics and onto that bristling bass. So yeah, it's good, Head Over Heels is good, and Chromeo, yup, they're good too. I think this might be my favourite Dave1 lyrical performance, it's the perfect mixture of cheek and heart. And we can't leave out his delivery either, which again nails the funky blend of lighthearted play and serious storytelling. However those of you that know me will know that instrumentals are my bread and butter, and this one really goes. We can, and I have in my album writeup (here), talk about the killer cliffhanger bass riffs, the splashy percussion and the cool chords, but nothing beats the solo at the end. This is Chromeo as slick and funky as ever and I for one am here for it, so Count Me In.
#10: The Funk Hunters ft. LIINKS - Say Something (Kotek Remix)
Much like "Psycho Killer" above, I first saw someone tweet about this sensational remix months before it got released. This winner of the remix contest, and you can see why, is an absolute sensation. Prior to the official release there was but one version of this online and it sure helped get me hyped, not just for its eventual release, but for whatever I was about to do after I listened to it. The bass slaps are awesome to say the least, especially as they become an electro behemoth as the track progresses. It pairs exactly what I love about both The Funk Hunters and Kotek: the duo's always lively grooves and organic feels along with Kotek's killer design and Assassin's Creed-like perfectly placed fatal blows.
#9: Jim-E Stack - Somebody
From some of the sickest slaps of the year to some of the most heartrending, emotional excellence as we break into the single digits. Jim-E Stack is a sensation, a magician, an impassioned emperor. Like Robin Hood, his arrows always strike the bulls-eye of your heart. Generally I'm more of an upbeat, uplifting track kind of guy, but there's just something about the way he imbues his productions with thrilling energy and emotion that I cannot ignore. The weeping snares lead what is one of the most harrowing yet inspirational and truly touching productions of the year. This god level pop production is as beautiful as they come, so get your tissues ready as you'll certainly shed a tear.
#8: Strafe - Set It Off (Justin Martin Remix)
Back up we come as we get this stellar, seductive party starter from the one and only Justin Martin. This one bristles with life, albeit an alien or robotic one. As I stated with the first track in this countdown, if I ever DJ in a spaceship or on the moon, this one is a surefire inclusion. Clean and crisp, with plenty of air to move around (important in outer space), this can certainly produce some of the best dances of the year. The amount of movement not just in the sizable seven and a half minute delivery, but in the sounds themselves is awesome, especially as Martin manages to maintain the flow and direction. Seemingly the theme in this year's best tracks, this will not blow you away, but rather suck you in.
#7: Joker - Anamorphic
Of course just as I say you won't get blown away, we get our most intense track of the whole list. Again there were more heavy and harsh dubstep tracks this year, but none that show the poise and harnessed power of Joker's "Anamorphic." A modern day "Iron Man," it is a trip to witness this monster come to life. There's just such an unreal energy and allure to the construction of each of the elements here and that's of the utmost importance, for at any given time you can count the number of sounds on two hands. This is most certainly a matter of quality over quantity, and the power of those notes not played. This is my kind of dubstep, and not just because of the radar blip from Pink Floyd's "Echoes."
#6: Alex Metric & Ten Ven - Otic
(As featured on EFYE) As mentioned with "Private Show," this was one of the trio of tracks Pete Tong played in February. And much like "Anamorphic" it is simple, steady strength, only this time it's in the form of a house track. It is a stirring success, doing the same to the dance-floor, bringing everyone together under this old school dance vibe. And that's really what it is, a vibe; a track equally as euphoric in the rain, on the most beautiful beach or in the darkest warehouse. It surrounds you, lifts you up and brings you face to face with your creator. This pairing has had a massive year both together and apart, but I submit that nothing else they've touched compares to this carefully crafted quality.
#5: BETON - Directions (ft. Wevie Stonder)
This thumping slice of Black Mirror-esque brilliance caught my attention as soon as I heard Tiga play it in early January, and it has still yet to lose any of its super cool allure. Weird and wacky, you'll be hard pressed to find anything quite like this, absolutely nailing the use of the Wevie Stonder sample. Chunky pulsating grooves lead this genius journey, but it's the little play around the lyrics that catapult "Directions" into the 5th spot. Examples: the creepy flourish after "follow her," the rev after "red car," the clicks after "nice motor," the stop after "turn the engine off," all capped by the maniacal laughter before the drop of "control yourself." A unreal trip, not many tracks can boast such an engrossing six minute sensation as this. Big ups to BETON for this brilliance and to Tiga and Turbo for championing it.
#4: France Gall - Elle Ella L'a (Folamour Edit)
We're getting down to the nitty-gritty here, as each of these top four tracks all could've claimed the title of best of 2018, so the difference between these spots is minimal to say the least. The groove Folamour lays down is fabulously funky right from the jump; I can distinctly remember at least two occasions where this was the first track I played in the car and my bobbing to the beat shook the whole vehicle. The growth following that awesome opening is genius, but nothing compares to the sensationally splashy, ebullient choruses as the brass, strings and drums baptize you in the glory of France Gall. No track this year had me more involved or upbeat as this one, and like the #1 track I used it several times to get me home safe, always strutting triumphantly down my street belting out "Elle Ella L'a!"
#3: Maribou State ft. Holly Walker - Nervous Tics (Maceo Plex Remix)
No tracks' designs stunned me quite the way Maceo Plex's did in this second runner up. The bass drum, or at least one of them, thuds and slaps like nothing I've ever heard. The snare is as crunchy as walking on sea of potato chips. And while those two elements are extraordinary in their own rights, nothing can compare to the choral elements. The rising fourth note has more weight than a black hole, within a black hole. Its resonance gobbles up all offerings, meaning no matter your vocal range, if you try to hit that note, you will. Try it, it's trippy as all hell, but oh so satisfying. Much like the #1 track, I've still not been able to turn this up loud enough, which isn't a slight on either production but rather a tip of the hat to the incredible design that leaves you wanting more. I have "God smacking you in the face" written in my notes, and just felt like I should share that, because that may be the best indication of the power I'm talking about here. The most awesome track of the year.
#2: Peggy Gou - It Makes You Forget (Itgehane)
Finally the book is closed on the trio of tracks from Pete Tong's February Friday night show with this runner up in Peggy Gou's coming out party. I've talked a lot about magic in this countdown, but nothing has quite the alchemy as Itgehane's siren-esque sensation. Everything works in perfect unison, and as is the case with these top few tracks, it is a matter of the whole being more than the sum of its parts. Acid drips, beautiful bells, caressing vocal whispers and more, combine to build the most hypnotizing melody of the year. Uplifting and inspiring, it is a bit of a slow burner, but that just adds to its allure. A radio version would not work, it's about the show, the reveal, the journey. Like a broadway song, you'll find yourself singing this on the way home, coming back to it day after day.
#1: Flight Facilities ft. Broods, Reggie Watts & Saro - Stranded (Late Nite Tuff Guy Remix)
Here we are, the #1 track of 2018, of course it's disco, but what you might not expect, a free download. I have in my notes "Pure Perfection," and just that. Done. Nothing else needs to be said, but I will. Gushing incoming.
I still kick myself that I was a month or two behind in finding this sublime slice of musical magic. It is pure poise, utter excellence, all cylinders firing in perfect unison. It's hard to believe but it may have sewn up its spot atop this list within the first 40 seconds of its play. The drum fill leading into the guitar riffs is undeniably awesome and catchy beyond belief. Like #4, it has me moving like Kodak Black and company as they listen to what would become "Zeze." It is so bouncy and so hypnotic, and all of this quality comes before we're welcomed by the brilliant vocals, around which Late Nite Tuff Guy does some of his best work. As I'm listening now, I'm brought to tears as the endorphins get the best of me.
So this is where I'll wrap up. This would not exist without the original, which is a gem in its own right, but also a reminder that there is no such thing as a bad track. We ought to be thankful for each and every creation, as not only does it bring our world together, it allows for inspiration and further creations. It is an infinite loop, and if you'll allow me to get a little more philosophical, this moment, the right now, is the best time for music and creativity. It is only progress, there is no regress. We may struggle, but we remain, inevitably enduring. Now this is where I'll leave you with just one more piece of this best track of 2018, the final lyrics "And I've been branded, stranded / Holding up these walls / And when she sees, and I know / Someone's got the best of my / Oh, got the best of my soul."
Thank you for reading and joining me on this journey. I hope I could share at least one track that brightens your day, gives you a renewed hope or perspective, or better yet lights a fire of discovery under your butts. Happy new year or goodbye old year. I'll catch ya on the flipside, cheers!
Note: #'s 95, 92, 64, 60, 54, 51, 48, 46, 38, 36, 27, 20 are not on Soundcloud.