The Music Ninja - Discover new music everyday - Part 409

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[15 to End 2015] Ninja Michael’s Best of the Year

Posted by Michael Serratore - December 30, 2015

Chill Dojo regulars shouldn’t be too surprised about what comes up in my 2015 playlist. The volume of amazing music just gets bigger and bigger every year, and as hard as it is to keep up with it all, it’s even tougher to narrow it down to just 15 tracks. Nevertheless, the entrants below have endured a series of rigorous challenges to emerge from the Dojo as my chosen few…

…Well it really wasn’t that dramatic. They’re just the ones that have been stuck in my head consistently all year. Here are the reasons why:

’Mura Masa – Firefly (ft. Nao)’

Out of all the artists who have had a big 2015,Mura Masa has definitely shown the most promise for me. Not only has ‘Firefly’ been my number 1 addiction all year, but together with a number of his other stellar releases, he’s managed to define his own signature sound which has served as an inspiration to the producers around him. That’s no small feat.

’Cosmo’s Midnight – Walk With Me (feat. KUČKA)’

Cosmo’s Midnightdelivered not only one of 2015’s indie dance anthems, but also one of the most entertaining music videos to go with it. Huskies, matching tracksuits, and a killer piece of choreography all come together to show that these spirited Aussie twins can nail a dance routine just as well as they handle production. ‘Walk With Me’ was recently released on their Moments EP, which showcases more of their phenomenal work this year.

’Snakehips – All My Friends (Wave Racer Remix) PREVIEW’

Wave Racer was always going to make his way on to this list in one way or another. ‘All My Friends’ has catapulted itself into mainstream success, but Wavey’s trademark colorful sound elevates this hit to another level. That said, any one of the tracks on his Flash Drive EP could easily have found themselves included as well.

’Sable – One And Only’

The promotion of Sable’s URL LUV tour across Australia was one of the most creative social media campaigns this year, incorporating a series of comics and a steady release of new songs in the lead up to the gigs across the country. Though his alter ego Shadow Sable allowed him to showcase a darker side to his music, the blissful vibe of ‘One And Only’ will be the lasting memory of this incredible show.

’Izzard & Blankts – Threads’

One of the best revelations of 2015 was the emergence of the Soda Island collective, giving light to a glorious group of artists crafting songs which act as an aural window to the magical world they represent. Of all their 2015 releases, Izzard and Blankts’ ‘Threads’ tugged at the heartstrings from the very first listen and hasn’t let go since.

’Ryan Hemsworth – Snow In Newark (Grynpyret Remix)’

Another inhabitant of Soda Island is the mysterious Grynpyret, and while ‘Boba Beach’ was his official contribution to the cause, his remix of ‘Snow in Newark’ was such an imaginative interpretation of the original that it just couldn’t be overlooked.

’Louis The Child – It’s Strange (Ft. K.Flay)’

This one has made its way into plenty of best of 2015 lists across the blogosphere, and with good reason too. ‘It’s Strange’ encompasses the pair’s ethos of creating music that makes you happy, and the music industry has taken notice.

’San Holo – We Rise’

His moniker couldn’t be any more relevant right now, but a clever choice of name is certainly not the thing that San Holo can hang his hat on for his success this year. The combination of slick beats and euphoric basslines do that job just fine, and ‘We Rise’ is one of his best displays of that.

’WRLD – Razor Leaf’

The young mind of WRLD is a vibrant universe inspired by a number of different influences. His prolific efforts in the future bass space are the outcome of that mind at work, and ‘Razor Leaf’ is an example of his enchanting melodies on full display.

’Gallant – Weight In Gold (Brasstracks Remix)’

Clocking in as one of the most remixed tracks of 2015, Gallant certainly left his mark with the soulful anthem ‘Weight in Gold’. Brasstracks ensured they gave this one the edit it truly deserved in the best way they know how.

’Lido x Brasstracks – Four Five Seconds’

Not content with only one remix on this list, Brasstracks demanded a second feature thanks to their collaboration with Lido on this joyful take on ‘Four Five Seconds’. When you combine the musical powerhouses that provide the lyrics with these adepts of the production game, you know something unforgettable is about to be heard.

’Towkio – Heaven Only Knows (Ft. Chance The Rapper, Lido & Eryn Allen Kane)’

The lineup of names was enough to prelude the enormity of this track before a single bar was dropped. Straight fire!

’Action Bronson – Baby Blue ft. Chance The Rapper (Prod. Mark Ronson)’

From one piece of hip hop brilliance to the next, Action Bronson and Chance combine for one of the ultimate breakup songs. The simple hook yet incredibly catchy hook is just made to sing along with, while the rest of the clever lyricism embodies a much deeper message about hurt.

’RÜFÜS – You Were Right’

RÜFÜS shook up the airwaves with their numerous hits this year, but the deep, driving beat and addictive chorus cement ‘You Were Right’ as the pinnacle of the bunch. This one was made to be played out in front of a packed audience.

’Fatboy Slim – Mad Flava (Autograf Remix)’

The last spot in this list belongs to my favorite groove of 2015, courtesy of some remix heat from Autograf. Musical trends will come and go each year, but nobody can deny a slick jungle beat to send a dancefloor into an absolute frenzy. The serious Crash Bandicoot vibes bring back a flood of nostalgia every time.

Electronic

[15 to End 2015] Ninja Jordan’s Best of the Year

Posted by Jordan Coburn - December 30, 2015

2015 marks a new era in music. I know that’s a grand claim, but hear me out. We haven’t seen this kind of experimentation and innovation in many, many years– so much so that I’m taking it upon myself to title 2015 the year of the Phoenix. *Insert smoke bomb quick change effect here.*

The concept of quality music has entirely re-birthed itself and with it the consumer base’s understanding of artistry has grown ten-fold. Artists like Grimes and Kendrick have experimented with elements that have been foreign to any of their previous works, Thundercat has stepped on the scene in a mainstream way that I would have never thought possible, and the Biebs has actually issued public apologies for his shenanigans and it is on that principle that I include him on this list. Just kidding, he just made a great track with the help of good ol’ Wes and Sonny.

But I feel weirdly proud of all of them. And with that, I bring you my list of the best tracks of 2015. Hope you enjoy.

’Skrillex and Diplo – Where Are Ü Now (with Justin Bieber)’

I know this song is everywhere all the time, but credit is due where it’s deserved, and thanks to this track made Bieber 10x more attractive. Probably ‘cause Diplo touched it. Mmmm Diplo.

’Shlomo – BURIED’

“Buried” provides a haunting introduction to one of his best works so far, Dark Red, that I to this day cannot stop blasting, and sometimes I put a sheet over my head and lurk around to it and that’s not strange.

’Viet Cong – “Continental Shelf”‘

Off their self-titled EP, “Continental Shelf” best encapsulates the emergence of a new age rock band that just seems to know what the freak (it might be 2015 but my lingo’s stuck in ’05) is up.

’Psychemagik – Mink & Shoes feat Navid Izadi’

A new kind of dubby club music—this track just makes me feel like straight struttin’ and was one of the hottest releases in electronic.

’Lane 8 – Diamonds ft. Solomon Grey’

This whole EP was just a great release for electronic music, and “Diamonds” is a beautiful example of the finesse Lane 8 put into this work.

’Major Lazer & Dj Snake – Lean On (Feat Mø)’

I had the privilege of being on the Mad Decent tour this summer and watching the things that this song does to a crowd every night is incredible– this track gets my best vibes vote, and Wes gets the chillest life vote.

’Rae Sremmurd – No Type (Prod. By Mike WiLL Made It & Swae Lee of Rae Sremmurd)’

Alright, this song just speaks for itself. Next.

’Courtney Barnett – Pedestrian At Best’

My god I love the genre she pioneered with this release, and I love how incredibly distinct she’s made her character within every single thing she bestows upon us. Also possibly one of the most clever lyricists of 2015: “I think you’re a joke, but I don’t find you very fuuuuunnuuunnuunnuuunnny.”

’Jamie XX – Loud Places (ft Romy)’

Jamie xx has always been a favo(u)rite of mine, and we send him our deepest congratulation(u)ns for the work of art he’s given the music wo(u)rld with his EP In Colour, and especially the track “Loud Places.” Also sorry for making fun of u.

’Thundercat – ‘Them Changes”

Jesus, this song has the most talent I’ve seen since Jordan. The depth of this track is astounding and I thank Thundercat for his supporting role in Fly Lo and Kendrick’s works, but I’m so happy he’s made it big with his own stuff this time around.

’Deru – 1979’

This song is much heavier than the rest and the artist is not well known, but Deru’s “1979” along with the rest of the EP is a work of genius—especially when you read how he recorded it. Just awe-inspiring.

’Bored In The USA’

Another real talk post—Father John Misty you are inspirational and prophetic and thank you for delivering this ballad to us. The quality quotient of this song is so high that I’m convinced it will be listened to for decades.

’Grimes – Fresh Without Blood/Live In The Vivid Dream’

Grimes kicked major ass with Art Angels and “Flesh without Blood” instills in me the happiness, weightlessness, and honestly hope that no other song in 2015 has. She is 100% the role model that all women, and all people because eff gendered statements Jordan, need.

’Tame Impala – Let It Happen’

Woof, this is getting intense. “Let It Happen” wins the best alternative song of the year, hands down. I haven’t heard a breakdown like this since never.

’Kendrick Lamar – u’

And finally, closing out the best of 2015, comes the best track off of the best album of the year in my opinion, “u”—a song that explores consciousness, vice and transformation like no other musical work I’ve ever heard. Kendrick’s theatrical performance in “u” sends the listener to their deepest and realest state—one of the wonders of musical composition that I am probably most thankful for.

And with that… here are Jordan’s top 15 tracks of 2015 listed from 15 to 1. Hope you enjoy.

[Electronic] Balam Acab – Spent Lives

Posted by Jordan Coburn - December 29, 2015

Balam Acab
Spent Lives

Which witch house wins? Balam Acab’s witch house wins. Balam Acab, otherwise known as Alec Koone, caught our attention a long time ago with his work, and a few days ago he released a new EP—Child Death. Aside from the real cute name, Child Death shows us not one side, but many sides of the Ithaca-based producer. The 5 track release takes the listener on an electronic journey that’s both light and dark at times, but mostly dark. It’s like the soundtrack for that really messed up version of Hansel and Gretel. Fun, right?

The second track off of Child Death, “Spent Lives,” caught our attention here at TMN the most. This mini-journey just takes you everywhere. It starts out with sci-fi spacey sounds, placing you in a twinkling landscape that speaks in chrome. Then Alec brings us into a darker place that seems more apropos given the EP’s name, and we’re sucked into a wormhole of echoing vocals, screeching samples, and deep and haunting bass tones. We actually find it to be very similar to Arca’s works, and that’s a big compliment. We think as subgenres of electronic get more and more exposure, witch house will be one that everyone knows. And when that happens, Balam Acab will be at the forefront right up there with oOoOO and Holy Other. And rightfully so.

[15 to End 2015] Ninja Jake’s Best of the Year

Posted by Jake Balbes - December 29, 2015

As we end 2015 I still think about the first day of it. I’ll never forget waking up to the Kanye West x Paul McCartney x Rihanna collaboration “FourFiveSeconds” and wondering what it would lead to. I certainly didn’t think my Macbook would give out one bittersweet evening this year. It was no easy task giving up my perfect iTunes library & curated playlists of “downloaded” music for my, now groomed, Soundcloud & Spotify accounts. We all had to make adjustments, and most of it was fun. Slacker Rock won me over. See ya in 2016.

’Mick Jenkins – Your Love (Prod. by Kaytranada)’

Shut your eyes & pout to this cut with production courtesy of Kaytranada.

’RNDYSVGE
getbackbby’

The kindle to your campfire.

’Obenewa – He’

Find my favorite chorus of the year on this powerful cut.

’Mac Demarco – The Way You’d Love Her’

Undeniably cool, the soundcheck all-star had an amazing 2015.

’Tor Miller – Hold The Phone’

It would have been a crime to keep Tor off this list with his tremendous ability on the keys.

’Raf Riley – Hiding Place’

The self-proclaimed “overall decent chap” delivers my favorite beat of the year.

’Eltiano – Dou’

Elton, please make more music.

’oriJanus – I Want You’

Taken from Soulection’s SADE compilation, oriJanus is masterful.

’Inspired & The Sleep – In My Labyrinth Mind’

This San Diego duo strikes gold with their psych-pop bender.

’Good Morning – Cab Deg’

Royal gentleman Good Morning take the crown for activating the most senses.

’Zak Abel – Alchemy’

“I can taste your poison on my lips.”

’Benny Sings Feat. GoldLink – You And Me’

This is the kind of collaboration that happens in your wildest dreams.

’HONNE – Loves The Jobs You Hate’

Easily listened to HONNE more than any other band this year.

’Jorge Alvarez – Rap Can’t Save You (prod. prime.cut)’

Future trendsetter with slick flow, looking forward to more tunes from Jorge.

’Kali Uchis – Ridin Round (Produced by DJ Dahi)’

Kali with the ultimate “put the top down” tune, revamped by DJ Dahi.

[MP3 Playlist] Indie Dojo (December 2015 Round #4)

Posted by Allegra Azzopardi - December 29, 2015

Here it is. The last Indie Dojo of 2015. Take a moment to soak in all the wonderfulness of the past year. If you need to go back for a refresher, we’ve got all the past Indie Dojos easily accessible. If you want to move right on into something new, we’ve got you too.

So cheers to the year behind us and to the new year ahead. And as always, thank you for coming back for more. See you on the other side!

’Frenship – Nowhere’

’Skies – Too Young’

’Flawes – You Are All I See’

’Tom Rosenthal – She Don’t Care’

’Richard Walters – July Bones’

’Logan Romberger – I’ll Be New’

’Cold Weather Company – Inside Your Eyes’

’Avid Dancer – Move On Up (Curtis Mayfield Cover)’

[15 to End 2015] Ninja Ivan’s Best of the Year

Posted by Ivan Chung - December 28, 2015

It has been an AMAZING year for music, especially in the electronic scene. As EDM gets a much greater exposure, every other song you hear is “Lean On” and “Where Are U Now” if you turn on the radio. Sharing your music is a breeze because of the vast selection of social media platforms. Now as 2015 is coming to a close, I’ve gathered my 15 personal favorite tracks released this past year to share with all you ninjas and ninjettes. Check it out and let us think what you think!

’Flume – Some Minds (feat. Andrew Wyatt)’

The Australian producer’s only original release in 2015.

’Deadmau5 – BLOOD FOR THE BLOODGOAT’

Deadmau5 actually collaborated with singer Grabbitz on this track. Need I say more?

’Louis The Child – It’s Strange (Ft. K.Flay)’

This song has a very unique sound and features some very unique vocals.

’Gallant – Weight In Gold’

Probably the most remixed songs of 2015 (other than “Lean On”).

’Mura Masa – Firefly (ft. Nao)’

Signature work from an upcoming British producer.

’Alina Baraz & Galimatias – Can I’

A lovely tune resulted from a heavenly match.

’Jai Wolf – Indian Summer’

A dance track that best represents the Indian producer’s cultural influences and heritage.

’ZHU x AlunaGeorge – Automatic (BBC Radio 1 Premiere)’

Another heavenly match that is soon becoming household names.

’Tchami – Missing You (ft. AC Slater & Kaleem Taylor)’

Fantastic future bass music that doesn’t sound overly commercial.

’Tom Misch – In The Midst Of It All (feat. Sam Wills)’

Great track by a producer who’s keeping soul music relevant.

’Disclosure – Bang That’

An awesome track off of one of the most anticipated sophomore albums in 2015.

’Purity Ring – Begin Again’

The talented duo’s best track off their second album.

’Sam Gellaitry – Reflectionz’

Perfect showcase of the complexion and production skills of the talented British producer.

’Galantis – Gold Dust (Original Mix)’

Galantis is reviving progressive house with this wonderful track.

’Tame Impala – Let It Happen’

An amazing track from one of the best albums of 2015 – “Currents”.

[15 to End 2015] Ninja Clayton’s Best of the Year

Posted by Clayton Warwick - December 28, 2015

Even though I’ve been writing for TMN over the past five years, I certainly don’t expect any of you to have me or my musical tastes pegged. In fact, I’d much rather you see this site as a whole, enjoying the eclectic blend that all the ninjas bring to the table. But, if you have paid attention, you’ll know that I love nothing more than hunting through submissions, SoundCloud, BandCamp, tweets, and smoke signals to try and find the best and brightest emerging artists.

2015 brought a few new acts to the scene that I simply couldn’t get enough of, a few of which made it into this year-end playlist. In addition to those, my musical world was blessed with albums from artists who haven’t released something in quite some time, including one band that surfaced after a six-year hiatus.

My 15 favorite tracks are listed below in no particular order because that would be painfully difficult and time-consuming. Instead, I’ve compiled them in a way that should provide you with an enjoyable listening experience, start to finish. If you’re unfamiliar with any of them, I’ve included a one-sentence description that should help highlight what to expect.

’Patrick Watson – Places You Will Go’

Patrick Watson continues to further the question that he could be an alien sent to mesmorize the human race.

’Mew – Satellites (Edit)’

Mew is finally back, in full form, and it’s magnificent.

’Day Wave – Drag’

This new act took the blogosphere by storm, myself included.

’James Vincent McMorrow – How To Waste A Moment’

Upbeat number with from the golden-voiced singer/songwriter, who also became one of my favorite live acts to watch in 2015.

’Still Parade – 07:41’

A little 70’s funk and pop mixed in with gorgeous vocals landed this newly released track into my best of 2015.

’Viola Beach – Swings & Waterslides’

This new act put out a track that’s ideal for a raucous night out, an adventurous road trip, or your next backyard BBQ.

’The Watermelons – Best Of You’

One listen to this catchy-as-hell song will have you singing along with ease.

’The Score – Oh My Love’

These guys will soon be heard across radio stations, shopping malls, commercials, and major motion pictures with their extremely infectious pop.

’JR JR – Gone’

Perfect tune for a montage of you and your special someone frolicking through a field.

’Jack Garratt – Breathe Life (Radio Edit)’

This memorable track displays what we love most about Mr. Garratt – the unknown.

’The Hunna – Bonfire’

Catchy Brit-Pop that will be coming to a stadium or festival mainstage near you in late 2016/2017.

’Drenge – We Can Do What We Want’

If you ever feeling like a drunken episode of lawlessness, put this on.

’Gallant – Talking In Your Sleep’

Sexy, seductive, and alluring, this tune sticks with you longer than unwanted relatives.

’Bobby Nourmand – The Sound’

A combination of haunting deep house, a timeless movie, and iconic vocals.

’Bon Voyage – Booshie’

Sometimes I like to party, and this song is the cause for most of those times.