January 26 is nearly upon us, and with it another year of counting down the best tracks of the year just gone. The Hottest 100 is a musical maelstrom that will feature everything from sleepy indie hits to deep pulsating bangers. So in the lead up, we’ll be picking some of our own faves, and to start here are ten tracks we think could get a spin in the Hottest 100, excluding your staple guarantees like Flume, Violent Soho and Kanye.
David Bowie – BlackStar
Coming from the late pop icon who was instrumental in not only shaping today’s music but also the culture associated with it, BlackStar will remain to be one of Bowie’s greatest releases. Though released at the start of the year, it will be surprising if an element of his legacy isn’t in the Hottest 100.
A.B Original – January 26
Serving as the brainchild of Briggs and Trails, A.B Original takes fire at all that is wrong with Australia’s history and the influences on modern society. January 26 is a straight up fuck you to the notion of Australia Day and with an online petition behind it, it will certainly place on the list – if nothing else than to make a statement about the day.
Catfish and the Bottlemen – Soundcheck
Serving as the single to their sophomore album The Ride, Catfish and the Bottlemen have pinned down the art of creating a catchy indie pop hit. Though the single was released in February, the boys have recently covered Falls Festival and a selection of side shows; tie that in with the promise of a 2017 national tour and you’ve got a track for our countdown. Will likely feature a few times.
Hands Like Houses – Colourblind
Since signing to Rise Records, Hands Like Houses have blown up on the hardcore scene, despite their unconventional approach to the genre. Colourblind marks their first foray into the heavier sounds of the genre with seamless fluidity. As one of Australia’s finest hardcore acts, their strong following will definitely gain them a spot in the list.
Harts – Peculiar
Having released the long awaited Smoke Fire Hope Desire in 2016, one man rock machine Harts is a strong contender for the Hottest 100. Featuring Peculiar as the first single, this track was a staple during his appearance at Groovin The Moo and his own national tour. Add a dash of radio play throughout the year and you can guess that Harts will slip in somewhere. Super talent.
Montaigne – Because I Love You
As arguably Australia’s biggest female artist at the moment, it was hard to look at a gig guide in 2016 without Montaigne making an appearance. Last year was huge for the songstress with numerous tours, an album release and collaboration with the Hilltop Hoods for a chart topping hit. Australia’s in love with this girl so it would be surprising if she didn’t make the cut.
Nick Murphy – Stop Me (Stop You)
After dropping the moniker Chet Faker, 2016 was the year in which Nick Murphy decided to release music under his own name. Though an established artist within the scene, the confusion of name change and limited release doesn’t guarantee him a spot. What does is the pure charm of Stop Me (Stop You) and the plugs he has received from his upcoming appearance at Laneway.
Paces ft Guy Sebastian – Keeping Score
Very few Like A Versions make it into the Hottest 100 but if one were to, it would be this gem from Paces featuring Guy Sebastian. Reworking LDRU’s Keeping Score into a fast upbeat track laced with Guy’s fierce voice certainly makes it hard to forget this number. Wouldn’t be surprised if we saw a record number of LOVs in this year’s hundy.
Camp Cope – Jet Fuel Can’t Melt Steel Beams
2016 was huge for Camp Cope with the release of a chart topping debut album, numerous music awards and a series of national tours/festival spots. Many acts came to light in 2016 but none soared as high as Camp Cope did. It won’t be surprising if a few tracks make it into the Hottest 100 but I’m putting my money on Jet Fuel Can’t Melt Steel Beams to rank the highest.
Tkay Maidza – Carry On
Serving as the first release of Tkay Maidza’s sorely desired debut album, Carry On is a rap rave banger that’ll get you through summer. Tie the uniqueness of her sound with constant radio play from various stations (not only Triple J), a national tour at the end of the year and countless collabs with other Australian talent and it becomes clear that Tkay deserves to be on the list.
So there you go, some tune rags to look out for. Remember, voting for this year’s Hottest 100 ends on Monday January 23rd, 2017 – be sure to vote before then so your favourite track has a shot at the number one slot.
While there be sure to check out the great work AIME are hoping to do with the money raised this year. All money raised will go to help Indigenous kids complete school and university, so let’s hope they beat the $100,000 raised last year.
