The Supermelon » Music Rack

The Supermelon Playlist Vol. 6

Staff — Fri, 08 May 2009 07:55:52 +0000

What would spring be like without an extra batch of tunes courtesy of the good folks at TSM? At the half-dozen mark, our staff expanded the search for hip and fresh tunes, digging deep not only stateside, but globally as far as influences go. This playlist is headlined by a handful of up-and-comers in a host of genres, with our interests coming from across the Atlantic and extending as far as the shores of Japan. So what are you waiting for? Pop these tracks into your stereo and let your body get loose.

The Supermelon Quick List:

Yeah Yeah Yeahs: Hysteric
Frankmusik: In Step
Phoenix: Lisztomania
Master Shortie: Dead End
Gang Gang Dance: House Jam
We Shot The Moon: LTFP
Greg Laswell: Come Undone
Peter Bjorn and John: Nothing To Worry About
White Rabbits: Percussion Gun
Ryan Leslie: Gibberish
Moonbug: Rhyme The Macaroni Well
Sleepyhead: Passion Pit
Matt Wertz: 5:19 (Acoustic Version)
Mat Kearney: Closer to Love

1. Yeah Yeah Yeahs: Hysteric

No one doubts that the Yx3 are astoundingly awesome. Their latest album, It’s Blitz!, does nothing to debunk that. The ethereal love song “Hysteric” is like the trio’s swoony anthem “Maps” - but even better!

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2. Frankmusik: In Step

Keep this adrenaline-inducing track on repeat. And kudos to that incredible hula hooper in the video.

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in step - Frankmusik

3. Phoenix: Lisztomania

One of Phoenix’s first singles from their forthcoming album, “Lisztomania,” is already one of my favorite Phoenix songs of all time. It’s completely danceable and incredibly infectious, but still smart and original. It’s one of those songs you think you’re going to listen to over and over again until you get sick of it, except you never get sick of it.

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4. Master Shortie: Dead End

Master Shortie’s star looks to shine bright in ‘09. His flow, pacing, and overall swagger is incredibly infectious. This funk-inspired tune makes skirting on the wrong side of relationships sound like quite an adventure. For more Master Shortie, check out TSM’s exclusive Fresh Talk feature with the burgeoning UK hip hop star.

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Dead End - Master Shortie

5. Gang Gang Dance: House Jam

“House Jam” is hard to explain. Somehow, this song is just as perfect for chilling in your room as it is for dancing at a house party, as the names of the band and song might suggest. There are unexpected sounds, groovy beats, and vocals that remind us of that Royksopp song about “flashlights and explosions.” It’s the kind of really good song you get lost in regardless of where you are.

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6. We Shot The Moon: LTFP

Pencil in indie band We Shot The Moon as one of the year’s top newcomers. Their debut album, Fear and Love, is chock full of beautiful piano-driven melodies and heartfelt lyrics sure to win any listener over.

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7. Greg Laswell: Come Undone

This brooding melody is the music in the trailer to the upcoming film Veronika Decides To Die. It will haunt you long after your first listen. Although it was on Laswell’s 2006 album, the subtly dramatic song is so powerfully great that it’s experiencing a revival!

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8. Peter Bjorn and John: Nothing To Worry About

This first single off of industrial Stockholm trio Peter Bjorn and John’s newest album is a contagious anthem. It will have you stomping your feet in no time!

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9. White Rabbits: Percussion Gun

Stellar first exposure to the six-piece Brooklyn by way of U of Missouri indie rockers. Will get your heart beating. If you have the chance, check out one of their rousing, energetic live sets. They’re known to switch instruments throughout their shows! Definitely a band to keep your eyes on.

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10. Ryan Leslie: Gibberish

Gibberish is the perfect song to showcase the right way to employ the vocoder. Captivated by the love of his life, Leslie croons a slate full of unrecognizable words. Although Leslie is unable to convey his words, the core essence of his emotions is crystal clear: utter infatuation.

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11. Moonbug: Rhyme The Macaroni Well

Two mega trios collide in this intercultural mash-up. Perfume, Japan’s reigning techno-pop group, meets the Beastie Boys. The questionable pairing of Perfume’s ultra-cute charm and the Beastie Boys’ energy-infused flow serves as a surprising complement and makes for a playfully addicting track.

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12. Sleepyhead: Passion Pit

Trippy perfection! This song is what would happen if MGMT went on a happy acid trip. This Boston band is proof that Myspace Music makes stars.

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13. Matt Wertz: 5:19 (Acoustic Version)

Get lost in Wertz’s voice as you reminisce your own “5:19″ moment. We love the original tune but the acoustic version adds a new side to this heart-tugging song.

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14. Mat Kearney: Closer to Love

You may have heard Kearney’s tunes as the backdrop to countless episodes of Grey’s Anatomy already. In preps for his upcoming sophomore album, the critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter is back to doing what he does best: moving listeners with his lyrics and heartfelt melodies.

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The Supermelon Playlist Vol. 5

Staff — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 07:04:50 +0000

Have a fine taste for music? At TSM, we go to great lengths to make sure our playlists are chock-full of memorable tracks. To winnow songs for our fifth volume, our staff searched high and low for unfamiliar faces, new takes on current faves, and songs that boast high replay value. The selected sixteen tracks are deemed worthy of your ears and should be the album of choice at your next house party. Yet no playlist is ever perfect. And that’s why we’d love to hear your thoughts and recommendations you have to share with our staff and readers. Until next time, put on your headphones and get the party started!

The Supermelon Quick List:

Animal Collective: My Girls
N.A.S.A. feat. Kanye West, Santogold, Lykke Li: Gifted
The Cool Kids: Bassment Party
Golden Silvers: Magic Touch
Kid Cudi: Day ‘N’ Nite (Crookers Remix)
Lady GaGa: Poker Face (Acoustic Version)
Maroon 5: She Will Be Loved (Pharrell Williams Remix)
Kanye West: Street Lights
Plastic Bertrand: Ca Plane Pour Moi
Feist: Mushaboom
N.E.R.D.: Spaz
The Black Ghosts: Anyway You Choose To Give It
Eberg: Inside Your Head
Oasis: (Get Off Your) High Horse Lady
Andrew Bird: Oh No
She & Him: Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?

1. Animal Collective: My Girls

Animal Collective’s ninth LP, Merriweather Post Pavilion, is a wonder to behold. The album’s most addicting track, “My Girls,” is a club-friendly hit, bordering on anthem status. The booming bass lines, trippy synthesizers, and bellowing “woos” will echo in your ear long after the track ends.

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2. N.A.S.A. feat. Kanye West, Santogold, Lykke Li: Gifted

N.A.S.A. (North America South America) is a pair of DJs currently prepping a debut release, rounding up artists for collabos across genres (i.e., Method Man, MIA, Tom Waits) all on one album. On “Gifted,” the duo aligns this mega trio for an unforgettable track with a cosmic touch.

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3. The Cool Kids: Bassment Party

Say hello to the hipsters of the rap game. The Cool Kids had a breakthrough year in ‘08 with two spins on Entourage and a collaboration with Lil Wayne. Their debut album, The Bake Sale, is reminiscent of Run DMC with their ’80s-influenced flash and playful verbal exchange.

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4. Golden Silvers: Magic Touch

Keep your eyes peeled on this group from northern London. The Golden Silvers play the grooves of multiple genres (i.e., pop, indie, disco) and strike the right balance. Their songs are light-hearted, fun, and the vocals take us back to the days of those barbershop blues.

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5. Kid Cudi: Day ‘N’ Nite (Crookers Remix)

You may have already heard this Cleveland native’s backup vocals on Kanye’s latest 808s and Heartbreak. In the midst of finalizing Cudi’s own debut album, his first single has been gaining considerable momentum. Since its release last year, the song has been treated to six different remixes. Oh, the wonders of reinvention.

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6. Lady GaGa: Poker Face (Acoustic Version)

Sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish whether the voice of a recording artist has been heavily “polished” by studio work. GaGa sets the record straight while overshadowing the original Poker Face in an incredible jam session. With a voice as soulful as hers, you wonder why the versatile GaGa didn’t make a foray into jazz and blues.

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7. Maroon 5: She Will Be Loved (Pharrell Williams Remix)

The entire Call and Response: The Remix Album is great, but this track especially stands out. Pharrell remixed “She Will be Loved” with smooth beats, and takes the song to another level.

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8. Kanye West: Street Lights

This song is in Kanye’s latest album 808s and Heartbreak. It’s definitely unlike his other songs- in fact, there’s not much rapping in it. Instead, it creates a great ambiance with the rhythmic drums and the smooth catchy melody.

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9. Plastic Bertrand: Ca Plane Pour Moi

This song was written in 1977 and released as a single by Plastic Bertrand. It has great dance vibes and perhaps got a boost due to its feature in the premiere episode of Gossip Girl’s second season.

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10. Feist: Mushaboom

The first single released by Canadian indie sensation Leslie Feist, “Mushaboom” is about a simple life in a small town, and taking the time to enjoy life.

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11. N.E.R.D.: Spaz

This song is on the band’s third LP, Seeing Sounds. Spaz is a 4-minute long psychedelic sound trip heavy on digitally mixed beats. The lyrics flow smoothly in time and the resulting sound is infectious.

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12. The Black Ghosts: Anyway You Choose To Give It

This synth pop meets rock band is on their way to being huge in 2009. Their song “Full Moon” is getting lots of press for being one of the best on the Twilight Soundtrack. This song, however, is more upbeat and has edgy, yet smooth electronic beats to it. Warning: This is THE tune to crank up to feel seriously fierce!

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13. Eberg: Inside Your Head

Apple used this song in its first iPhone commercial in 2007 during the Oscars and it still wins over new listeners. The haunting melody will give you goosebumps! A song is truly outstanding when it makes you feel either happy or melancholy - and “Inside Your Head” is always nostalgic!

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14. Oasis: (Get Off Your) High Horse Lady

The original British Invasion rockers, Liam and Noel Gallagher, now share songwriting and producing duties. And that’s a good thing as their latest album Dig Out Your Soul testifies! This song is experimental and bluesy— the rhythm grooves like a horse trotting!

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15. Andrew Bird: Oh No

Andrew Bird just released his newest album, Noble Beast, and it is all so good in true Andrew Bird form. The songs are smart, quirky, and deliciously folksy.

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16. She & Him: Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?

She & Him consists of the creative collaboration of actress/vocalist Zooey Deschanel and talented indie music staple M. Ward. Together, they created a timeless darling of an album, Volume One, in 2008 made up of Ward’s virtuosic guitar playing and Deschanel’s pure tonal harmonies. On this album, which was Paste Magazine’s favorite record of 2008, Deschanel and Ward achieve the warmth and charm of old-fashioned pop and country from a by-gone era.

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The Supermelon Playlist Vol. 4

Staff — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 08:26:32 +0000

We love music. And we also know that the songs we hold dear to our hearts typically have a “freshness window.” After having a song on repeat, for say a month or two, we move on. And that’s why the staff at TSM is always on the prowl for the hottest jams, with no set criteria, except that what we share with our readers is fresh, fun, and worthy of a listen. So think of our playlists as that special friend who sifts through the music scene and then fills you in on the best. Enjoy and feel free to chime in with your picks!

The Supermelon Quick List:

Little Jackie: The World Should Revolve Around Me
Flamboyant Bella: My Skies
The Virgins: Rich Girls
Joshua Radin: They Bring Me To You
My Morning Jacket: Evil Urges
The Kills: Cheap and Cheerful
Black Kids: Hurricane Jane
Lykke Li: Little Bit
The Fratellis: Tell Me a Lie
Emilia Torrini: Me And Armini
The Fashion: Like Knives
The Cab: Take My Hand
Menya: Oh!
Andrew Bird: Imitosis
Charlotte Gainsbourg: 5: 55
Ne-Yo feat. Jamie Foxx and Fabolous: She Got Her Own (Miss Independent Part 2)

1. Little Jackie: The World Should Revolve Around Me

Little Jackie is an amalgam of recorded music’s golden eras—1960’s soul, classic hip-hop—rolled into one fun duo comprised of singer Imani Coppola and programmer Adam Pallin. While the band’s tracks tend to pay homage to times gone by, they always manage to remain fresh and forward. “The World Should Revolve Around Me” is the first single of the team’s current album, The Stoop.

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2. Flamboyant Bella: My Skies

Having a bad day? Feeling a little blue? Listen to this song. It’s as soothing as a cup of tea.

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3. The Virgins: Rich Girls

These hip New Yorkers sing of late nights and a life of debauchery like no other. Their funk-driven sound strings together the garage band appeal of The Strokes with a litany of thumping bass lines. If you dig upbeat tracks and memorable hooks, give this track a spin.

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4. Joshua Radin: They Bring Me To You

Joshua Radin’s latest album, Simple Times, is now out in stores and he is currently touring across the U.S. with Missy Higgins. His music is a total pleasure to listen to: Radin’s voice is beautiful, his lyrics are heart-wrenching, and his music is absolutely perfect for foggy days or long car rides. So drive with the windows down, let yourself wander down memory lane, and fall in love with this talented new artist.

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5. My Morning Jacket: Evil Urges

These guys are the musical masters of the decade! This song has such a haunting quality to it and is a perfect introduction to the MMJ sound.

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6. The Kills: Cheap and Cheerful

The Kills’ sound is so deliciously dirty and robotic. “Cheap and Cheerful,” from their amazing newest album, Midnight Boom, is a perfect song to listen to while getting ready to go out and paint the town red. This song has a killer (excuse the pun) ability to get under your skin and make you feel “crazy ‘cuz you’re boring baby when you are sane.”

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7. Black Kids: Hurricane Jane

All eyes have been on the Black Kids since Rolling Stone named them one of the “Artists to Watch” back in ’07. While Black Kids don’t bring anything remarkably new to the indie rock scene, you’ll get swept away by the quirky lyrics, youthful enthusiasm, and dance-friendly melodies. Their second single “Hurricane Jane” off their debut, Partie Traumatic, is the type of inspired ‘80s track that should be on play at your next house party.

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8. Lykke Li: Little Bit

Swedish indie singer Lykke Li has quietly brought “cool” back to minimalism. Her debut album, Youth Novels, is a delicate work of art, held together by Li’s soft-spoken voice, lyrical integrity, and reserved use of instrumentation.

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9. The Fratellis: Tell Me a Lie

Don’t let the name fool you; although these boys all go by “Fratelli” they aren’t brothers. What they do have in common is their love for music and motivation to succeed. “Tell Me a Lie” is on the band’s second album, Here We Stand, which dropped in June. Jon Fratelli, on lead vocals, has a powerful rock ‘n’ roll voice that makes you want to dance around the room and Barry Fratelli’s bass skills are unstoppable. As drummer, Mince Fratelli keeps the song energized and the audience wanting more.

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10. Emilia Torrini: Me And Armini

We’re in love with Icelandic songstress Emilia Torrini. Having carved out a niche in folk music, Torrini’s latest album, Me And Armini, dabbles with a wide variety of genres (i.e., reggae, jazz, dance). The lead single demonstrates Torrini’s continued growth as an artist, willing to take musical risks and let her music grow on her listeners.

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11. The Fashion: Like Knives

You may have already heard this catchy song on a recent episode of Gossip Girl. Likened by many as a cross between the Beastie Boys and LCD Soundsystem, Danish indie band The Fashion will convert even the most selective listeners with its edgy sound and raw appeal. Who needs caffeine when you can jam to a high-energy track?

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12. The Cab: Take My Hand

This Vegas rock band Cab formed in 2005 and its debut album, Whisper War, dropped earlier this year. Despite being relatively new, the band has received major accolades from the industry. Alternative Press deemed them “The Band You Need to Know 2008.” “Take My Hand” is laid-back rock track with a hint of punk and an upbeat tune that helps balance out emotional lyrics. Lead singer Alex DeLeon is only 20 and his smooth and level voice makes for easy listening.

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13. Menya: Oh!

Menya is a New York City-based band comprised of three NYU students who perform under the monikers Coco Dame (rapping), Angie Ripe (singing), and Good Goose (composing and mixing all of the band’s tracks). At times light and whimsical, and other times raw and outspoken, Menya’s sound is reminiscent of every artist from Peaches to The Notorious B.I.G. “Oh!”, from their EP The Ol’ Reach Around, is a fun, upbeat track and a prime example of their unique flavor.

Click here to listen

14. Andrew Bird: Imitosis

Andrew Bird’s quirky style is backed by so much talent that he is absolutely impossible to ignore. “Imitosis” is a great song from Bird’s latest album, Armchair Apocrypha, released in 2007. This song is catchy and bubbly, but also extremely clever and unique.

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15. Charlotte Gainsbourg: 5: 55

French actress Charlotte Gainsbourg is perfect for this mellow and soft song. Sung partly in French, the song is as beautiful as it is touching.

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16. Ne-Yo feat. Jamie Foxx and Fabolous: She Got Her Own (Miss Independent Part 2)

It’s about time we hail Ne-Yo as the closest singer/songwriter our generation has to a Babyface. We first heard this full-on remix at a nightclub in Japan. Bundled with Year Of The Gentleman as exclusive bonus to Japan, those of us stateside have to be wondering why we were left out of the mix. The track is a welcome complement to Miss Independent as this classy trio comes together to effusively praise women who hold their own.

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The Supermelon Playlist Vol. 3

Staff — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 08:58:11 +0000

What better way to close out summer and welcome autumn than with a fresh batch of tunes courtesy of The Supermelon. Like our two previous playlists, our selection standard was simple: dope songs of all kinds, whether it’s mainstream or lesser-known tracks. You’ll find an eclectic mix of hand-picked jams perfect for those traffic-plagued commutes, the workout routines, and of course, juicy ear candy to simply indulge in.

The Supermelon Quick List:

John Legend feat. Andre 3000: Green Light
Little Dragon: After The Rain
Chester French: Jimmy Choos
Albert Hammond, Jr.: GfC
Ben Lee: Love Me Like The World Is Ending
New Kids On The Block feat. Ne-Yo: Single
Marcela Mangabeira: Rio
Glen Hansard: Lies
Carla Bruni: L’Amoureuse
Jaymay: Gray Or Blue
M83: Graveyard Girl
Santogold: Creator
Tilly and the Wall: Pot Kettle Black
Thievery Corporation’s remix of Sarah McLachlan: Dirty Little Secret
Sia: Day Too Soon
Girl Talk: In Step

1. John Legend feat. Andre 3000: Green Light

These two gentlemen sure know how to put class back on the dance floor. On the verge of releasing his third album, Evolver, the soulful John Legend impresses with a surprisingly up-tempo single, production courtesy of Andre 3K of Outkast.

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2. Little Dragon: After The Rain

This Swedish group is one of our favorite new finds! We first heard this track at an Anthropologie store and couldn’t help but feel intrigued by its smooth yet funky jazz sounds. It makes us want to break out a bottle of Bordeaux with the girls and throw a dinner party!

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3. Chester French: Jimmy Choos

Say hello to the pair of Harvard alums that sparked a major label tug-of-war among the hottest names in music (read: Kanye West, Jermaine Dupri, and Pharrell) before ultimately signing with the Neptunes label - Star Trak Records. It’s about time a band show some love to our favorite pair of heels, especially when that band reminds us of the Beach Boys on strong doses of hip-hop.

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4. Albert Hammond, Jr.: GfC

This song is probably the least Strokes-sounding we’ve heard from Albert Hammond, Jr. since he went solo. And it might be the best. It has a beautiful, haunting melody, but still has a rockin’ guitar-fueled chorus.

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5. Ben Lee: Love Me Like The World Is Ending

I’m sort of obsessed with Ben Lee. If the Aussie accent doesn’t make you melt, his songs-for-any-weather will. Lee’s latest single is infectious and upbeat and only lends credence to his veteran folk/pop reputation.

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6. New Kids On The Block ft. Ne-Yo: Single

A comeback? Really? Aren’t these guys like…40? Once you exonerate yourself from the boy band guilt trip, you’ll love this track for what it is - a catchy tune that’s got “play me” written all over it. For “Single,” The Block snagged Ne-Yo and producer Polow Da Don (Chris Brown’s “Forever,” Usher’s “Love In This Club”) for what sounds like a sure-fire hit in our book. Now excuse us while we dust off our old Jordan Knight posters.

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7. Marcela Mangabeira: Rio

Marcela is a Brazilian singer with one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard! Most of her songs are in Portuguese; the music is bossa nova meets lounge at its best. Perfect for the days you just want to chill out. “Rio” is on her album, Simples, and all of her other songs are great as well.

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8. Glen Hansard: Lies

Even a year after we’ve seen the movie-musical Once, the soundtrack still strikes a chord in our hearts. One of our fave songs, “Lies,” recounts the story of a crumbling relationship. Hansard’s strong vocals drives the track with his powerful vocals, backed by Marketa Irglova, who adds a smooth, soft complement to the delicate voice of Hansard.

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9. Carla Bruni: L’Amoureuse (“The Woman In Love”)

The Italian-born, First Lady of France Carla Bruni has created a virtuoso to behold. Her voice - super smooth and natural - lets your mind journey, relax, and mellow out. At 40, her musical talent is incomparable and her intellect stunning, and she only continues to get better with age.

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10. Jaymay: Gray or Blue

The debut album by singer/songwriter Jaymay has been on heavy rotation since we received her album as a gift. And what a gift it’s been. The first track off her album “Gray or Blue” vividly describes a guy she knows every detail about but is too nervous to approach. Her lyrics, deep and introspective, paint a picture of a New Yorker we can all relate with.

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11. M83: Graveyard Girl

French electronica group M83 impresses with an ‘80s-inspired single that pokes fun at teen angst and emotion. Note the incredibly hilarious monologue mid-track, “I’m only fifteen years old/And it’s already too late to live.”

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12. Santogold: Creator

Two words to describe the hardest hitting track of the year: raw and powerful.

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13. Tilly and the Wall: Pot Kettle Black

Omaha, NE’s Tilly and the Wall have always had classic ’60s influences. This awesome song is no exception, but is a bit more rock ‘n’ roll than their previous songs. It’s impossible not to bop your head to this rockin’ anthem which is set to be featured in the first episode of The CW’s 90210.

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14. Thievery Corporation’s remix of Sarah McLachlan: Dirty Little Secret

Thievery’s version of “Dirty Little Secret” is one of the best songs on their album, Versions. Thievery added their beats to the song, and the result is an ultra cool lounge version mixed with Sarah’s beautiful voice. The song is hauntingly mesmerizing.

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15. Sia: Day Too Soon

Sia, of “Breathe Me” fame, proves more and more why she isn’t a one, or even two-hit wonder. This song off of the crooner’s latest album is the perfect happy OR sad tune to listen to – now, how often does that happen? That’s talent.

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16. Girl Talk: In Step

The best album of the year is one you can’t purchase in stores. The only place to get Girl Talk’s new album, Feed The Animals, is available online in a name-your-price format a la Radiohead’s In Rainbows. His songs throw tracks and beats in a blender for an unbelievable end result (i.e. Eminem over Yael Naim, Ludacris over Earth, Wind, and Fire) The album, for lack of a better word, is orgasmic and nothing short of a 55-minute feast for your ears.

Click here for full song

Those are our picks. Love it? Feel shafted? What are your picks? We’re all ears.

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The Supermelon Playlist Vol. 2

Staff — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 09:12:21 +0000

For part two of our summer playlist, The Supermelon has searched high and low for the hottest tracks. From mainstream artists to up-and-comers, this diverse collection of songs has been on-play non-stop in our rides and on our iPods. These songs will prompt the always curious car passenger to ask, “Who is this? … Really? Wow, I’ve never heard of (this artist)!” Since the songs are all Supermelon-approved, these hits are guaranteed to shake things up on your playlist. So move to the beat, get sucked in by syrupy melodies, stand up and dance, and as always, stay fresh.

The Supermelon Quick List:

Rilo Kiley: Breakin’ Up
MGMT: Electric Feel
Ne-Yo: The Closer
Jens Lekman: Shirin
Raheem DeVaughn: Love Drug
Common feat. Pharrell: Universal Mind Control
Lil Wayne feat. Kanye West: Lollipop Remix
Jinah Kim: Mine To Hope
Priscilla Ahn: Dream
Lady GaGa feat. Colby O’Donis: Just Dance
The Ting Tings: That’s Not My Name
Kate Walsh: Your Song
Coldplay: Lovers In Japan
NERD: Everyone Nose (Chaise Marcel Remix)

Here are our super faves (at the moment):

1. Rilo Kiley: Breakin’ Up

Single people rejoice! We found this catchy breakup tune by indie pop band Rilo Kiley featured in a recent Grey’s Anatomy episode, and have been in love with their critically acclaimed major label debut, Under The Blacklight, ever since. Lead singer Jenny Lewis’ country-style vocals over the disco beat is a refreshing departure from those breakup songs that invite listeners to share in the misery. With a memorable hook as “ooooh… feels good to be free,” here is to hoping low-calorie beverage makers feature this song in their next commercial.

Click here to watch the music video

2. MGMT: Electric Feel

How else can we describe this MGMT’s debut album, Oracular Spectacular, than epic and otherworldly? You simply can’t put a label, let alone a genre, on this psychedelic pair of Brooklyn boys. What we can say for sure is that these dudes are aiming for a higher musical plane along the standards of a new retro party sound. The great thing about this album is that regardless of its timing, say the ‘60s or the ‘90s, it wouldn’t feel out of place. And be honest - when’s the last time we heard a line as unforgettable as “I said ooh girl/shock me like an electric eel/baby girl/turn me on with your electric feel.”

Click here to watch the music video

3. Ne-Yo: The Closer

Talented songwriter turned performer Ne-Yo returns with a dance-friendly tune, already heating up the airwaves this summer. We love the single for its synth-heavy backdrop and fresh spin on disco-esque beats. But don’t just take our word for it; Michael Jackson has given the song his stamp of approval as well.

Click here to watch the music video

4. Jens Lekman: Shirin

In this acoustic strummer, talented Swede Lekman nostalgically reminisces about the love of his life, Shirin, singing in his sunny voice amidst a backdrop of live instrumentation. Lekman’s entire album, Night Falls Over Kortedala, is a gem so make sure you hit the store for this one.

Click here to watch the music video

5. Raheem DeVaughn: Love Drug

This self-proclaimed “R&B-hippie-neosoul-rock star” has been favorably compared to Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. Raheem DeVaughn is an anomaly on today’s music scene, opting to sell his individual strengths as a vocalist (note the conspicuous absence of guest appearances) and filling the void with timeless tunes rather than one-month wonders. One of our faves has to be “Love Drug,” a thrilling ballad about the captivating addiction between lovers on which DeVaughn showcases his silky falsettos. Beautiful…

Click here to watch the music video

6. Common feat. Pharrell: Universal Mind Control

Can you name another production team that makes space-y beats as super fun as The Neptunes? This has to be one of our fave Neptunes’ beats alongside Missy Elliot’s “Lose Control” and Pharrell’s “Frontin.” For the first single off Common’s upcoming Invincible Summer, both the Neptunes and the relentless lyricist bring their A-games for the track and the result is sublime.

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7. Lil Wayne feat. Kanye West: Lollipop Remix

What do the Backstreet Boys, Norah Jones, Eminem, Usher, and Lil Wayne all have in common? They’re all members of the exclusive Millionaires Club – artists who have pushed over 1 million units in a week. While most music execs are reluctant to over saturate the market with content, Wayne has turned the business model on its head, making his presence known with over 70 quality guest appearances and mixtape songs the past few years. Looks like Karma is returning the kind gesture. Certified platinum and counting, what better way for the prolific Weezy to celebrate than invite the Louis Vuitton Don for a sick verse on a remix that rivals the auto-tune voice enhancement and unconventional wordplay of his #1 single.

Click here to watch the music video

8. Jinah Kim: Mine To Hope

Off her debut album Red Eye, “Mine to Hope” showcases Jinah Kim’s unique and honest vocals and knack for tugging at heartstrings. A classically trained pianist, self-taught guitarist, and compulsive writer, this singer-songwriter has a lot to say, and her lyrics speak for themselves.

Click here to download the free track

9. Priscilla Ahn: Dream

One word to describe singer/songwriter Priscilla Ahn: calming. Her soft, peaceful voice will soothe her listener’s emotions. Note her strikingly beautiful vocals a la Norah Jones as she transports you to a tranquil state of mind. Ahn’s music video for her single “Dream” is super original, symbolizing the three stages of a womanhood converging in the wilderness for a brief, heartfelt encounter.

Click here to watch the music video

10. Lady GaGa feat. Colby O’Donis: Just Dance

Akon sure knows how to find great talent. His latest find, Lady Gaga, is paired up with rising labelmate Colby O’Donis for an incredibly catchy electropop dance song tailor made for any dance floor. We love her vocals, gorgeous looks, and the retro dance feel of her music. Lady Gaga described the mood of the song as “fun, LA, celebratory vibe.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

Click here to watch the music video

11. The Ting Tings: Shut Up And Let Me Go

English dance-pop duo The Ting Tings are dazzling listeners overseas. Critics (i.e. NME, Q Magazine, BBC) and fans alike have been raving about their catchy, dance-along songs. Did we mention the single was also featured on the coveted iPod commercial spot? Talk about a meteoric rise to stardom. These Brits have been on heavy rotation at The Supermelon since their album, We Started Nothing, dropped in May. For a fun romp and a dope music video (we love the recursive hand transitions!), make sure to give this pair a spin.

Click here to watch the music video

12. Kate Walsh: Your Song

The perfect lullaby. Kate Walsh has a commandingly soft voice that is both fragile and beautiful. What distinguishes Walsh from most other female singer/songwriters is the purity in her voice. In “Your Song,” her gentle acoustic arrangements are simple and Walsh’s voice is incredibly soothing, gently reminding us about the beauty and accompanying heartache in harboring a simple crush.

Click here to watch the music video

13. Coldplay: Lovers In Japan

Quite possibly the highlight off the new Coldplay album. The upbeat track has a sunny melody and a shining Chris Martin whose vocals are superb. The album is amazing and we can’t stop listening to it over and over again. The great thing about Coldplay is their musicianship never folds under pressure. Their music embraces the challenge of boldly experimenting, as evidenced by the international influences throughout the album.

Click here to watch the music video

14. NERD - Everyone Nose (Chaise Marcel Remix)

While we rarely prefer remixes over originals, this one was too exciting to pass up. Marcel cleverly rearranges pieces of the song around perfectly for a reinvention that is frenetic and exhilarating, reserved only for the dance floor. We can already envision the scene now. It’s Saturday night at a club, friends with drinks in hand, everyone dancing in a cramped sweaty space, cameras flashing away, and of course, “all the girls standing in the line for the bathroom.”

Click here to watch the music video

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The Supermelon Playlist Vol. 1

Staff — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 06:47:36 +0000

At The Supermelon, we’re constantly updating our track lists with the hottest and freshest tracks out there. We have no set criteria for judging songs, no preference for mainstream or those that fly under the radar, just the condition that the music we love and hold dear is catchy and refreshing. This summer, make sure to show off that glam, stay active, raise the bass lines to blaring volumes, and above all, stay fresh.

The Supermelon Quick List:

Estelle feat. Kanye West: American Boy
Ryan Leslie: Diamond Girl
The Hives: T.H.E. H.I.V.E.S.
The-Dream: Falsetto
Kenna: Say Goodbye To Love
Usher feat. Lil Wayne & Beyonce: Love In This Club Pt. 2
Samantha James: Angel Love
Stephane Pompougnac: Ghost & Roses
Vampire Weekend: Mansard Roof
Ingrid Michaelson: The Way I Am
Tristan Prettyman: Madly
Missy Higgins: Where I Stood

Here are our super faves (at the moment):

1. Estelle feat. Kanye West: American Boy

Supermelon is calling this one out - Estelle is going to be huge. Currently based in the UK, Estelle is a female R&B/hip-hop artist whose second single, American Boy, off the album “Shine” is absolute fire. We’ve been a fan of Kanye West long before the platinum albums and Grammy Awards, all the way back to his days as an artist on the mixtape-circuit, and his lyrics (albeit cocky but brimming with swagger) are by far some of the best we’ve heard from him. Estelle’s buoyant charm and creative energy can be heard in her sassy voice throughout the chorus.

Click here to watch the music video

2. Ryan Leslie: Diamond Girl

This R&B super-producer - who goes by the moniker “R-Les” - is sexy as he is brilliant. Having produced for the likes of Diddy, JoJo, and Usher, this ultra sharp Harvard-alum is pulling out all the stops for his self-titled debut album’s first single. Leslie boastful croons resonate over a booming bass line and compressed synthesizer, culminating in the single’s wittiest line, “If my record don’t sell, we’ll still go diamond.”

Click here to watch the music video

3. The Hives: T.H.E. H.I.V.E.S.

This song arguably has the most self-promotion save for another name-dropping track by Diddy. With production work from the Neptunes’ Pharell, The Hives’ have created a really addicting anthem with a catchy riff and hook that compels us to keep hitting the “repeat track” button.

Click here to watch the music video

4. The-Dream: Falsetto

Like many super-producers, Terius Nash, aka “The-Dream,” has naturally shifted his musical talents to his debut album.

Click here to watch the music video

5. Kenna: Say Goodbye to Love

The subject in a chapter from Malcolm Gladwell’s best-selling Blink, Kenna was initially touted by many to be the “next big thing,” but was glossed over by major radio stations. A major dilemma that developed was how to market a genre-less artist in today’s finely categorized music industry. While he may continue to be shrouded in obscurity (his album is on repeat at The Supermelon though!), this adventurous single is like a spike of energy and will get you super-amped for tackling the day.

Click here to watch the music video

6. Usher feat. Lil Wayne & Beyonce: Love in This Club Pt. 2

What would summer be without a hit from Usher? While his #1 hit single “Love In This Club” may be getting more spin, be on the lookout for this hot remix with Weezy and Beyonce.

Click here to watch the music video

7. Samantha James: Angel Love

Looking for some fresh electronica music? Samantha James has a silky smooth yet altogether resilient voice that not only sets her apart from other electronica musicians, but also brings out an uplifting spirit in her dance-friendly music. Can’t stop playing her album, Rise, in our cars.

Click here to watch the music video

8. Stephane Pompougnac: Ghost & Roses

French House DJ Stephane Pompougnac is the father of today’s hottest lounge music, known best for mixing the Hotel Costes series. His songs consistently deliver everything we expect: worldly influences, top notch production, and good taste.

Click here to watch the music video

9. Vampire Weekend: Mansard Roof

Perhaps no group has dealt with more hype for their self-titled debut album than this indie band of four. Their music is incredibly refreshing and cleverly arranged as it fuses elements of Afro-pop and Cape Cod-inspired melodies. We also admire their “I don’t give a damn”-attitude on their wardrobe, flaunting their clean-cut prep flair over the typical “messy garage band” appeal. And the sweet thing is, even if their music gig tanks (which we highly doubt), they still got their Colombia diplomas to fall back on.

Click here to watch the music video

10. Tristan Prettyman: Madly

Former Roxy model, Tristan Prettyman, is an uber-talented singer/songwriter with a voice that is super soulful and genuine. We saw her perform live at The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and she blew us away. The finger-strumming acoustics; the stories in her lyrics; the breezy vibes – yes, we’re “madly” in love with this album. Definitely put her tracks on spin as you soak in the sun at the beach.

Click here to watch the music video

11. Ingrid Michaelson: The Way I Am

We can’t get enough of this super-talented female singer/songwriter. Her lead single “The Way I Am” is simple but catchy, inserting delicate acoustic strums here and there to complement that beautiful voice of hers. Her lyrics come off as if she is simply day-dreaming and singing along whatever thoughts comes to mind.

Click here to watch the music video

12. Missy Higgins: Where I Stood

This talented female artist has come out with another great song, from her second album. Her voice puts us at ease…

Click here to watch the music video

What’s on your list?? We’d love to hear from you!

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