P.O.D. – “Lost in Forever”: The Jah-loving quartet is back this summer with Murdered Love, and this is the lead single. The single brings back vibes from nearly all P.O.D. eras, although a bias toward the more melodically driven Testify and Payable On Death is noticeably present. Marcos Curiel’s low-tuned wailing guitar is quite prominent, of course and early fan reactions indicate this song is up there with the classics.
Foster the People – “Don’t Stop (Color the Walls)”: The third single from Foster The People’s debut record has had minor success at Top 40 radio and moderate success at alternative stations. Whistling is quite prominent (to no one’s surprise) but they took a risk placing that in the intro. Ultimately, this is a fun single that will stick in your head but its not quite as fun as “Pumped Up Kicks” or “Helena Beat.”
Gotye feat. Kimbra - “Somebody That I Used to Know”: What came first, the chicken or the egg? The cover or the original? It’s undeniable that this song is everywhere – but its hard whether to attribute that to the genius songwriting or the astounding cover by Walk Off the Earth that went viral on Youtube. In either case, it’s refreshing to hear a nice organic, not overly produced piece of quality music spreading across the Top 40 airwaves.
Coldplay – “Charlie Brown”: This, the third alternative single off Mylo Xyloto tries to be the band’s next big anthem but doesn’t quite reach the heights of “Viva la Vida” or “Clocks.” Is it a good, piano driven song? Yes. But the problem is they try to do too much and the melody, while catchy, isn’t as enjoyable as some of their other hits. “Paradise” is far better, but no doubt “Charlie Brown” will be memorable as well. I hypothesize a live setting makes it easier to appreciate.
