Beck, “Orphans”
All he needs is psychedelic guitars, fireside strumming and airy harmonies, and suddenly the Summer of Love
is back.
[Listen] [Review]

John Mellencamp, “My Sweet Love”
A Bo Diddley rhythm and bright backup vocals bolster this ode to a love that’s as classic as country rock.
[Listen] [Review]

Girl Talk, “Set It Off”
What would Jay-Z sound like if Radiohead was his backing band? This tour-de-force DJ mash-up delivers the answer.
[Review]

The Hold Steady, “Constructive Summer”
“Our psalms are singalong songs,” insists Craig Finn. Jet-engine riffs and a spirited chorus back up his claim.
[Review]

Sigur Rós, “Gobbledigook”
With drum-circle percussion and acoustic folk, this swirling tune is the Icelandic group’s best-ever attempt at boogie-woogie.
[Listen] [Review]

Photo: Getty