Anne-Marie - Then
It's been a big year for Anne-Marie and even in its dying days she delivers another great little song. More subdued than her earlier numbers its still hard to not be pulled in by the strong songwriting and emotionally-charged production. Strong. (7/10)
Ball and Boe et al - Bring Me Sunshine
The 'each-artist-sings-a-line-of-a-classic-song-for-charity' trope has been well overplayed and this lands firmly in the middle. It's for charity so stick your hand in your pocket, but it's pretty inoffensive. (6.5/10)
Bleachers - Don't Take The Money
Though not their best song there's still plenty to enjoy in this well produced indie-pop number with a sing-a-long chorus, even if the video and its frequent pauses are irritating. (6.5/10)
Ed Sheeran with Andrea Bocelli - Perfect Symphony
Dropping another collaboration remix after scoring the festive number one with Beyonce, this version will depend on your love of the original song, but the added opera-stylings from Bocelli give it another bit of bite and the string-work some more heart. (7/10)
Kesha - This Is Me
From the Barnum musical that isn't the Barnum musical this is a stirring life-affirming song which could well be pretty personal for Kesha who injects plenty of energy into this stand-up-and-be-counted song. (7/10)
Manic Street Preachers - International Blue
Sounding a little like the Preachers adapting 'Dancing in the Dark' for a new audience this is a surprisingly poppy entry for the band. It's not a revelation for them but it's radio-friendly enough and sounds like it could become a live favourite. (6.5/10)
Pale Waves - New Year's Eve
There aren't enough songs about New Year's Eve and though this is quite downbeat in its lyrics and not something you'd expect the DJ to drop it on the night it's heartfelt and resonating chorus is surrounded by some fun production and a strong vibe. (7.5/10)
Paramore - Fake Happy
After the incredible 'Hard Times' from earlier in the year we're in similar introspective territory here for this second follow-up. Williams' vocals are on top form, delivering a touching vibe to the bittersweet lyrics. (7/10)
Riton & Kah-Lo - Fake ID
Lifting the rhythm and pace from 'The Clapping Song' this gives it a modern paint job and turns it into a fun club banger. Intriguing. (6.5/10)
Shed Seven - People Will Talk
There are sometimes songs that grab you from their opening riff and this is one of them, building from the powerful opener to its upbeat, driving forward beat. Fun! (7/10)
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