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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Alan Walker – Dancing In Love (ft. Meek)
A super fun disco dance track. I really like the texture of the vocals.
Alek Sandar – Countdown To AI
The title of this song feels like a threat. But rather than AI, this is cheesy Eurodance.
Bess – Suutele mun silmii
I feel like half of this month’s list is Finnish pop. Here’s Bess’s new one: a surging club track.
Craig David – SOS
This has a very nostalgic sound.
Ellie Goulding x Anyma – Hypnotized
This has a trance sound that’s in keeping with Goulding’s recent material.
Erika Vikman – Ich Komme
Finland’s Eurovision selection UMK hit it out of the park this year, with three songs I’d rate 9+. This is the first, coming from my beloved Erika Vikman. I can’t say enough about how spectacular she is, and this song is so exciting and daring. Honestly, it’s probably too good for Eurovision.
IVXN – Monopol
Another Eurovision hopeful, this time from Croatia. I love the blend of traditional elements and huge EDM bombast.
Jade – IT Girl
She’s yet to surpass Angel Of My Dreams, but this has its moments.
Maria Sur – Follow
A catchy 80’s pastiche for those in the mood.
Neea River – Nightmares
I’ve been a Neea River mega-fan since she released her first music online in early 2023. So, it’s incredibly gratifying to see her taking place in UMK and reaching a whole new audience. Nightmare is dance pop perfection, making every move you’d hope from a song like this.
Nelli Matula – Hitaammin hautaan
This is my third 9+ rated track from UMK. I hadn’t heard of Nelli Matula before this, but Hitaammin hautaan boasts a whopper of a melody. I love the structure of its chorus – the way it surges forward and whips back in equal fashion. There’s such a satisfying sense of movement and momentum.
Ollie Wride – Wish You Well
Another solid piece of 80’s synth pop/rock.
Olly Alexander – When We Kiss
This is another track from his upcoming album that’s “almost there” for me. I’m still eager to hear the full project, though.
Tream x Mia Julia – Herzblatt (Aua Aua)
This skirts the line between “thrilling” and “annoying.” Sampling an iconic hook from The Buggles’ Video Killed The Radio Star was kind of smart, though.
Victoria Sciberras – Juno
Pure Eurovision drama.