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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Adam Woods – Supernatural
This year’s Melodifestivalen has largely underwhelmed so far, but this is a solid dance track.
The American English – Wherever My Love Takes You
The incredible Ollie Wride has a side project, and if you like synth-sprinkled, anthemic 80’s rock you’re going to love The American English.
Benjamin x Bess – Paremmin ku kukaan muu
This was the month of killer duets from Finnish faves. Benjamin and Bess are unstoppable and this is a fantastic banger.
Beyoncé – Texas Hold ‘Em
I’m not sure how I feel about this and its counterpart 16 Carriages, but new Beyoncé music is always a treat.
Dannii Minogue – Thinking ‘Bout Us (with Autone)
It may be somewhat generic, but this is nice melodic dance music.
Delta Goodrem – Hearts On The Run
The Australian legend explores synthwave.
Dua Lipa – Training Season
This is decent, but I’m missing the gusty pop melodies and bombast of her last era.
Elisa Lindström – Forever Yours
Melodifestivalen can always be counted on for at least one good old fashioned schlager track.
Gryffin – Last Of Us (ft. Rita Ora)
Very early-2010’s. I appreciate its big build and powerful melodies.
Jannika B – SOS
Stop what you’re doing and listen to Jannika B’s new album right now! It’s banger after banger after banger, and SOS is only a taste of the fantastic material she’s come up with.
Jax Jones – Never Be Lonely (ft. Zoe Wees)
This has such a fun Eurodance sound.
Käärijä & Erika Vikman – Ruoska
Finland’s Eurovision hopefuls were not great this year (and its winner is awful), but the incredible Käärijä & Erika Vikman teamed up for the interval act that easily surpassed them all. I’m obsessed with Ruoska‘s frenzied rock energy and propulsive chorus. Just incredible.
Neea River – Never Made It Out Alive
Neea River simply can’t make a song that isn’t epic. This has the big energy and bigger melodies we’ve come to expect. It’s so good.
Purple Disco Machine – Beat Of Your Heart (ft. ÁSDÍS)
Purple Disco Machine have been on a real roll lately, mastering every dance genre they touch. This is another bonafide smash.
Robin Packalen – Kuumilla hiilillä
Finland’s really taking it, aren’t they? Robin returns with his first Finnish single in awhile and it’s predictably great.
Saba – Sand
Denmark has unveiled some great songs for its Eurovision bid, and I think this must be the frontrunner. Its epic melodies and performance clearly echo last year’s winning Tattoo from Loreen. It’s tremendous.
UBLU – Planetary Hearts
Even though I doubt it’ll win Dansk Melodi Grand Prix 2024, this is a personal favorite. It reminds me a bit of BWO. That chorus is just so good.