The Bias List is a K-pop blog that also covers a fair amount of J-pop. But just like most music fans, I enjoy tracks from all around the world. So, I thought I’d start a monthly round-up of some of the non-K-pop songs that have caught my ear. No ratings — just highlights!
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Ava Max – My Oh My
She keeps coming back with the same basic song yet it’s incredibly addictive each and every time. How does she do it?
Bentley Robles – IAM IAM IAM
This has been one of my favorite discoveries of the year so far. Bentley Robles’ newest album is all-killer, no-filler – especially if you love driving synth-drenched pop. Opener IAM IAM IAM sets the tone in thrilling, melodic fashion.
Blusher – Accelerator
Are you looking for a 2024 answer to Icona Pop’s immortal early-10’s smash I Love It? Have I got the girl group for you!
Conan Gray – Fainted Love
Gray’s newest album is a fun escapade through various 80’s soundscapes. It’s super cohesive, but I think this track stands out.
Darin – Electric
It’s hard to believe Darin’s been at this music thing for nearly twenty years now. He still sounds as fresh as ever, and this chugging disco anthem is a welcome addition.
Dua Lipa – Illusion
Sadly, Dua Lipa’s recent singles roll-out is doing exactly opposite of what it ought to: it’s making me less excited about the album. Illusion is another fine dance track, but it’s just too subdued. I’m fearing the Future Nostalgia era might have been a one-off…
Kiesza – I Go Dance
Everything released from her upcoming EP has been brilliant. This doesn’t quite match up to the bonkers Dancing And Crying, but I love its electro thump.
Kygo – For Life (ft. Zak Abel & Nile Rodgers)
Like so many others, I’m getting tired of song interpolations being passed off as new dance hits, but the super-charged, anthemic production on this has my heart.
Melovin – Dreamer
A hopeful to represent Ukraine in this year’s Eurovision (he didn’t win), Melovin delivers an operatic, dreamlike club epic.
Molly Sanden – Hålla mig
It seems Scandinavian producers have no shortage of sublime, chugging electropop. This one takes a bit of a trance turn.
Peg Parnevik – Svett
“Svett” means “sweat” in Swedish, and you’ll be feeling exactly that as the breathless beat takes hold.
Raylee – Diamond In The Rough
This feels more in line with what I’d hope Dua would be doing in 2024. It’s got a beefy funk backbone and incredibly catchy hook.
Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso
I’m not usually into the more subdued side of disco (why can’t artists just embrace the bombast??), but this is a solid, addicting example.
Zee Machine & Bentley Robles – Anyone But Him
Hey, it’s that Bentley Robles guy again! This time, he’s paired with another awesome indie artist. This might just be my favorite track on the round-up this month. I’m obsessed with the relentless guitar that comes in just after the chorus.