New Good Song: "Dancing On My Own (Tiesto Remix)," Calum Scott 1.15.17

Here's a new good song: "Dancing On My Own (Tiesto Remix)" by Calum Scott. I loved Robyn's original version of this song and generally bristle at covers of great songs, especially when they're released just a few years after the original. That said, I have to admit I like what Calum Scott did with the track here; his vocal delivery transforms the song from an empowerment anthem to a self-pitying ballad with a bisexual twist. I've noticed a lot of degradation and backlash online about Scott's version, but I personally like it, and I'd say that if it creates even one new Robyn fan, then it was a success for that alone. The original version of Scott's cover is nice but I prefer what Tiesto has done on the remix. Enjoy!

New Good Song: "Don't Wanna Know," Maroon 5 f/ Kendrick Lamar 1.15.17

Here's a new good song: "Don't Wanna Know" by Maroon 5 f/ Kendrick Lamar. I like some of Maroon 5's music but am not a devoted fan. This track is simple, understated and catchy. I'm also glad to see a pleasant song that's well-sung and contains notes cut through the clutter of an iTunes chart top-loaded with unbearable noise created by Migos, Rae Sremmurd and Drake. Enjoy!

New Good Song: "Starboy," The Weeknd f/ Daft Punk 1.15.17

Here's a new good song: "Starboy" by The Weeknd f/ Daft Punk. This is the first time I've featured a song by The Weeknd as a lead artist because I didn't particularly care for his releases from the 2015 album Beauty Behind The Madness. I'm not enamored with his voice, and I find the lyrical content's emphasis on "edgy" drug and sex talk to be an inauthentic and somewhat desperate plea for attention. But "Starboy" is a clever, slick pop song that's well-suited to his strengths, so I'm enjoying having it on my playlist. Enjoy!

New Good Song: "I Go Through," O.A.R. 1.15.17

Here's a new good song: "I Go Through" by O.A.R., a group that does some good music. Not totally sure I follow the lyrics and message here, but it's solid musically. Enjoy!

New Good Song: "I Know A Place," Muna 1.15.17

Here's a new good song: "I Know A Place" by Muna. This group was perhaps my favorite find from 2016; they landed on my year-end list at Nos. 4 and 13. Now here they are with "I Know A Place," another alt-pop throwback song that fits in their ongoing theme of self-empowerment. Enjoy!

New Good Song: "Bitten By The Apple," Big Black Delta f/ Kimbra 1.15.17

Here's a new good song: "Bitten By The Apple" by Big Black Delta f/ Kimbra. I've been enjoying Kimbra's efforts so consistently for the past five years that it's safe to call me a fan. She's a regular presence on my year-end lists of the best songs, and I love her voice, expressiveness, fashion and demeanor. Some of her work takes a few listens before I "get it," and this collaboration with Big Black Delta is an example. After hearing "Bitten By The Apple" enough times that I can sing along with it and anticipate what's coming, it's turning into one of my favorite tracks of the moment. And the video is a trip. Enjoy!