February was a month dominated by the Olympics, so unfortunately I didn't listen to as much music as I would have liked. Nonetheless, here are my top ten songs for the month of February!
1. Say Something - A Great Big World - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVgixOjGhVU
So far, this song is the highlight of 2014 for me, and I wouldn't be surprised if it finishes on my final top ten list for the year. I love its simplicity, and yet it still manages to produce a profound emotional impact. I'm surprised we haven't heard the song on more movie soundtracks or even on more TV shows at this point.
2. Somewhere in My Car - Keith Urban - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eiyVSfQUFy4
This is by far the best single off of Keith Urban's new record Fuse. All the songs are gems, but this one stands out. The mixture of expert guitar riffs and pure country provide for a signature Urban song. Keith Urban remains one of my favourite artists, and is slowly taking over my favourite guitar player spot from Lincoln Brewster. I'd love to see the two go on a guitar war against each other...
3. Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) - Hillsong United - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dy9nwe9_xzw
The first time I heard this song was when a friend told me his church had attempted it for worship Sunday. Apparently it went really well, and as I'm always on the lookout for good praise and worship songs, I went home and researched it. I was shocked, but in a good way! The song is very unique, with an airy feel. I'm not 100% sure how it would go over in a church service, but I have no doubt that it touches hearts wherever it is played. The song really grew on me and I'd love to personally attempt it one Sunday.
4. Cop Car - Keith Urban - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3pwCDigobg
This song is the signature single from Keith Urban's album Fuse. Personally I like Somewhere in My Car better, but I can see the attraction in this smooth, dynamic song. This one showcases Urban's voice moreso, and provides a better rounded song musically wise, with less attention given to Urban's guitar playing skills. However, there is one point in the song were the electric guitar takes over. Quickly afterwards it dies rather suddenly, something that I would have liked to have been different.
5. Meant to Live - Switchfoot - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5BvhlHFO8w
This song is a great tune to rock out with. The best part is a strong guitar lead with an interesting riff that dominates throughout the whole song. The message behind the song is also great. I haven't heard a lot from Switchfoot, but I'm really interested in researching what they have produced so far.
6. Radioactive - Imagine Dragons - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcIq2OSZQSc
This song fell slightly down in my rankings due to overplay on the radio. It seems wherever you go this song will play within 30 minutes. This is definitely due to the awesome qualities of the band and the song, but it does get old after a while. However, I would love to see a live performance of this song, especially with Imagine Dragons being such an unique band.
7. Holy (Wedding Day) - The City Harmonic - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_B0-ll_T7f8
Another one of my all-time favourite songs. The City Harmonic seem to be following in the footsteps of Jesus Culture, but have not fully cultivated that unique sound yet. Holy is a step in the right direction. It should also be mentioned that combining a band with a symphony is not an easy task, but The City Harmonic did an amazing job with it.
8. Jesus Only Jesus - Matt Redman - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2o4dI3HA0A
This song is perfect for any Sunday church service. Excellent lyrics with a beautiful spiritual meaning. I must say that I prefer my church youth band's rendition of this song a lot more. Slightly sped up, with some small changes, the song is so much more impactful and enjoyable to listen to! Good job Faith Youth band!
9. One Thing Remains - Jesus Culture - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtmA3ji8RkY
I saw Jesus Culture perform this song live last year, and it was even more amazing. I'm surprised more worship bands aren't using the song for their sets. Its emotional impact is unrivaled, and its capability to bring the Spirit of worship into an area is spectacular. Jesus Culture is the leading band in the music industry for this skill at this point, and it's something that will become more and more special as the years progress. This is the new sound of the worship industry.
10. Man in the Mirror - Michael Jackson - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEQAie8ABLE
Although Michael Jackson was not the best person in the world morally, he's definitely in contention for the most musically talented. Man in the Mirror is just an example of Jackson's skill at unique phrasing, and adding small vocal tricks to create a musical identity for himself. The song itself is a classic, especially the key change halfway through the song. For a different version (slightly better in my opinion) check out The Midway State's cover here.
