It’s that time again! I’m excited to announce my favorite music of the season, highlighting some of the musicians that deserve recognition the most.

While I can only include my top three singles, please know that if your band/your favorite band wasn’t included, it does NOT mean they lack in any way, it just means that the field is so competitive that only the best of the best (in my opinion) can be considered.

Everything about these songs was analyzed, from the production of the song as a whole to the quality of each instrument and vocal part. Without further ado, these are my top three singles from Fall 2019 submissions from September-December, excluding EPs and albums:

3. “Constellations” by Heavenly Faded

“‘Constellations’ begins with a building of tension in the guitar and percussion lines. Rhythmic, methodical riffs make way for the classically indie-rock vocals, which are perfectly suited to the unassumingly powerhouse instrumentals. The bassline, albeit not at the forefront, is well-suited to the track, working with both the guitars and the drummer to create a balanced mix of rhythm and melody through the track’s twists and turns. Even throughout tempo changes and during less-saturated sections, every beat obviously matters to every member of Heavenly Faded; measures are clearly planned and practiced to create a semblance of effortlessness that makes for easy listening. The work put into the single is clear even to the untrained ear throughout every dip and sway of the song.” —Heavenly Faded’s New Single Shines Bright

2. “Heart Beat” by Marble House

“Overall, “Heart Beat” lives up to its name: A lifeblood-shaker of a song, the track is perfect to dance to. The track was mixed by Aaron Bastinelli in Brooklyn, NY, and mastered by Joe Lambert in Jersey City, NJ. Described by the band as an “epic, fast-paced indie rock critique of modern hookup culture,” it tells a story that many listeners are likely to understand all too well. While the beginning of the song tells a story of “two people who will end up in bed together by the end of the night,” it widens into “commentary on the impersonal blur that is contemporary dating.'” —Brooklyn Band Rocks Down the (Marble) House With Latest Single, “Heart Beat”

1. “Not a Stranger” by RAGS & RICHES

“On their social media, RAGS AND RICHES touts the track as a song “for anyone struggling with self doubt.” Their message is that “you are not alone in this fight” and you need to “push through the negative thoughts holding you back” so you can “just learn how to fly.”  This message echoes the love and positive vibes of their last track, and it’s easy to feel the band’s pure connection to these messages in “Not a Stranger,” too.

“Not a Stranger” begins with the intensity listeners have grown to expect from RAGS AND RICHES. Heartbeat-like pounding and buzzing electronic beats lead us into a quieter, melodic instrumental section before the vocals come in. The waves of intensity matched with calm, xylophone-like rhythms and interesting percussion throughout the track create the perfect party song, but also something that’s fun to listen to when working out or just relaxing.” —RAGS AND RICHES are Far From Strangers to this Blog!

 

What were your favorite tracks this season?