Tuesday 1 March 2016

Singles: The best of January & February 2016


Welcome to a new feature at Internal Jukebox. Previously we have had a single of the week, for 2016 we are changing things up and will instead look monthly at our favourites songs of the past month. We have been a little slack, so instead we will look at our favourite six singles of January and February first. What has been your favourite song of the year so far? Tell us in the comments section below.

Sanctuary - Markus Feehily


Former Westlifer Markus Feehily released his first solo album last year, and while first single, "Love Is a Drug" was a great tune, it is his new release that is truly his finest moment since early Westlife. Using a brilliant sample from Clannad, or you may remember it being used by Delirium and Sarah McLachlan for "Silence". The beat is intoxicating and the vocals are powerful and passionate. Then there's the brilliantly melancholic lyrics, "So when you hit rock bottom, I don't want to hear it's me you need". This is such a strong single, I hope it gets the attention it deserves.

Secret Love Song - Little Mix featuring Jason Derulo


Little Mix's "Get Weird" was one of the best albums from 2015, and with a few singles out, I was really glad they released this great tune. Seen by many as an anthem for the GLBQTI community, especially the beautiful stripped ballad that is Part II, this is a passionate tune that is a vocal showcase for both the ladies of Little Mix and the wonderful Jason Derulo. The beat is great, but it is all about those beautiful lyrics, "Why can't you hold me in the street? Why can't I kiss you on the dance floor?". Pop can have a message, and a beautiful one at that!

The Pop Kids - Pet Shop Boys


Pet Shop Boys are back, and I am excited and can't wait for the new album. First single, "The Pop Kids" is a great retro track with a funky 90s feel. It's all about some guys who meet at Uni but quickly discover a love for pop music. There's a brilliant sophistication to the track and has a trademark Pet Shop Boys sound. Plus, you have to love when they include some spoken word. The lads are back in form and I love that after all these years they can still release music that gets myself and many others very excited!

Cheap Thrills - Sia


I reviewed Sia's amazing new album last week and called this my stand out from a strong LP. "Cheap Thrills" is brilliant in so many ways, what was Rihanna thinking not taking this song? The beat is infectious, as are the great lyrics and Sia is sounding as brilliant as ever. This is a great pop song, a party song without the melancholy of "Chandelier" (though that is still her best track). I have had this song stuck in my head for weeks now and still listen to it constantly. A great track from a brilliant Australian artist.

All My Friends - Snakehips featuring Tinashe and Chance the Rapper


Now this track may have a little age on it, but it was this year that I grew to love it and it is still on high rotation at my house and in my car - in fact even my boss is still playing it non-stop. The track follows in the line of party songs about regretting partying started by Sia's "Chandelier". The beat is lazy but funky and Tinashe's vocals are inspired. And you have to love those lyrics about partying too much because of being rejected by a lover. A great song I am glad I finally found.

Pillowtalk - Zayn


We were all waiting with baited breath for Zayn's first solo release after One Direction, and we were certainly not disappointed. What a great beat, part pop, part R&B and part electronica, it is the perfect vehicle for Zayn's truly amazing voice. The almost lazy delivery is inspired and the sexy lyrics show a real adult side to Zayn. He clearly has big plans for his solo career and is surrounding himself with people who can really help him grow as an artist - what a great release and a deserved worldwide number one.

What has been your favourite release for early 2016? Any music we should be checking out? Let us know in the comments section below.

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