My Top Picks of 2018 – A Reflective Journey Through the Year’s Best Tracks

Introduction

As the dust settles on 2018, it's inspiring to remember the sheer diversity and quality of music released during this period. My personal list from that year captures a mix of classics and hidden gems, each song telling its own story. In this article, I'll share my top three songs from 2018, along with some recommendations that specifically resonated with me.

My Personal Picks for 2018

Dance Macabre by Ghost

Ghost delivered with their atmospheric and haunting ballad, Dance Macabre. The song is a middle-eastern fusion, with its exotic spices and classical instrumentation. It's a perfect blend of mystery and melancholy, adding a unique and eerie touch to the soundscape. Ghost's mastery of creating an evocative atmosphere through their music is truly a treat for fans of the genre.

Hi-Hello by Johnny Marr

Johnny Marr, best known for his work with The Smiths, brought some of his vintage pop sensibilities to Hi-Hello. This song is a nostalgic dive into the golden era of 80's indie pop. Marr’s distinctive guitar work and the melodic yet melancholic lyrics paint a vivid picture of a bygone era, making this track a worthwhile listen for those who appreciate classic pop sensibilities.

Pressure by Muse

Muse's Pressure is a powerful, anthemic track. This track demonstrates the band's ability to blend pulsating beats with soaring vocals, creating a track that’s as much about catharsis as it is about emotional depth. Pressure is a prime example of modern rock at its best, striking a perfect balance between aggression and poignancy.

Additional Recommendations

In this section, I'd like to recommend some tracks that didn't make it into my top three, but are nonetheless worth your time. These songs, in my opinion, offer unique perspectives and considerable charm.

Hurt by Oliver Tree

Hurt by Oliver Tree is a remarkable cover of Radiohead’s song. With its clever instrumentation and minimalist yet impactful production, Oliver Tree’s version brings a fresh layer to a classic track. His performance, combining the persona of a joke performer with a nuanced take on the song, results in a surprisingly touching and captivating experience.

Ribbons by The Good the Bad and the Queen

Ribbons is a standout from Damon Albarn's solo project. This track showcases Albarn’s expertise in crafting emotive and evocative music. The minimalistic production and Albarn's haunting vocals create a moody, reflective atmosphere that carries the listener through a narrative of abandonment and loss. The added layer of background carnival music adds an eerie and compelling touch.

Something Human by Muse

If you’re in the mood for an 80s-style dance track, Something Human is an absolute blast. With its fast-paced synth and energetic production, it’s a true party anthem. Muse’s signature blend of pulsating beats and poetic lyrics makes this song an exhilarating listen, perfect for getting lost in the rhythm and melody.

A Few More Honorable Mentions

Here are a few more tracks that caught my attention and warranted a mention for their unique qualities and musical innovations.

Selfish Liars Dreams or Whatever by Indoor Creature – A quirky and witty take on modern electronic music. Idaho by Gorillaz – A track that delves into the strange and surreal with a captivating melody. Lemon Boy Boys will be Bugs by Cavetown – A playful and energetic track that’s perfect for a fun listen. Starlight Brigade by TWRP – A dreamy and atmospheric track that showcases the band's psychedelic sensibilities. Alien Boy by Oliver Tree – Another powerful cover that brings new life to an older tune. Threes by SixFoxWhiskey – A track that combines haunting vocals with a atmospheric production.

In conclusion, 2018 was a year filled with memorable music, and these songs are just a few examples of the diverse and innovative tracks that captured my attention. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, electronica, or indie pop, there’s something here for everyone to discover and enjoy.