Here at CBC Music, we can be a reflective bunch. So, a little more than halfway through 2012 we took a quick peek behind us at what the year has offered so far.
If you only bought six songs so far, these should be them.
Bahamas, 'Lost in the Light'
As Bahamas, Afie Jurvanen conjures up ghostly introspection with a hint of humour and then invites us all to sing along. Just try to ignore the rich, full, harmonious lyrics ("Bein' free leavin' me on my own!"). I dare you.
Cold Specks, 'Winter Solstice'
We knew she was coming, the fine folks at Arts & Crafts made sure of that. Still, not only did we fall hook, line and sinker for the trance-inducing vocals, but we warmly accepted the creation of a whole new genre to describe it. Doom soul. Is it really a genre if only one artist fits the bill? Who cares, she's great.
Carly Rae Jepsen, 'Call Me Maybe'
OK, maybe not the greatest song ever, but you’re going to need it for the office Christmas party in December so you might as well pick it up now.
Patrick Watson, 'Into Giants'
For all of their musical chops, Debussy-ian influences and gorgeous cacophony, "Into Giants" is the sound of Patrick Watson having fun. Full stop.
Kathleen Edwards, 'Change the Sheets'
One of the hazards of working with music is that you often burn out on it just as the rest of the world discovers it. Like most big albums, first there were rumours and snippets and then advance copies of Voyageur kicking around the office for weeks. Before January was over we had recorded sessions and concerts and videos, played her on the radio and made her the artist of the month. Kathleen Edwards was everywhere. I still love this song. Edwards was swinging for the fences on this one, and it’s a home run.
Matthew Barber, 'Got That Lonesome Feeling on my Mind'
Released June 5, this one could pass you by if you’re not looking. One of Canada's finest songwriters takes a trip through 1950s Nashville with an album's worth of songs written for the play Haunted Hillbilly (based on the book by Derek McCormack). Twelve songs long, the entire album only clocks in under 25 minutes and this song, one of the longest on the record, is a gem.
It's been a good year for Canadian music so far. Can't wait to hear what the second half has to offer.
What songs or albums released from January through June would you add to the list? Post them below, or email us at songwriter@cbc.ca.
Related:
CBC Music: Listen to your ultimate summer songs playlist
CBC Music: Songs of the summer for the next 20 years