Unfortified Castle

TLC, fully immersed in the social world of the mid-90s, remind listeners they can find a way out of the darkness by being their own light.

It's Dead Week, and my existential dread is peaking once more.

...and the marching band rendition of the track I heard tonight.

Labelle's smash hit is so catchy because nearly every individual element is infectiously memorable on its own.

Alabama Shakes strike a beautiful balance between the deeply personal and the globally applicable in the narrative of their debut single.

Gorgon City utilize mediated repetition — particularly of a single element — to create and reinforce their track's titular aura.

Mario's signature song may seem simple at first, but closer inspection reveals several largely small, but impactful changes throughout.

...and I only learned about it today.

R.E.M. portray a man whose hindsight reminds him of painful mistakes in love and trust.

Sia presents a tale of self-reckoning, but also acceptance and ultimately confidence that she can at least healthfully keep her pain inside.

Nor does 'unique' or another similar adjective. 10cc's masterpiece merits so many more words, given its story, sound, and lasting impact.

Gabriel's vocal and instrumental arc work in lock step to form a marvelously complete, love-centered narrative.

Baby, can't you hear? It's nothing like what you expect from an idol like Britney Spears, but it's arguably her biggest hit.

Grandbrothers blur the boundary between classical and electronic worlds with this powerful, piano-driven production.

A standout from her new record, the string-guided track breaks new ground for Adele in just how personal she allows her narrative to be.

Even with its title and sporting usage, Kool & the Gang's signature song embodies a more laidback form of celebrating.

BANNERS displays the longing for a feeling he may not really know... but the way he does it is compelling.

Is it pyromania? No, but it's a frantic and psychedelic trip that makes you feel like something's burning inside you.

It's a song I consider a sports anthem, and just a track that gets you in the mood for a thrashing.

The Aston Shuffle expertly execute a slow, but sure build, capping it off with the most satisfying release in the final break.