Best “Non-Desi” Music of 2009

It was really difficult to narrow down the top songs to just 10. In fact, the last few years have given me hope again in music. And, 2009 was no exception, with some stellar debuts and sophomoric releases, not to mention long-awaited comebacks. So, below are my top non-desi tracks of the year:

In 2009, we had two (!!) separate releases by Cocteau Twins and former partners Robin Guthrie and Liz Fraser. Unfortunately, we may never see a unified Cocteau Twins again, but I’ll be happy if the solo releases continue to sound like “Sparkle” and the rest of Robin Guthrie’s release. Fraser’s single was leaked earlier this month with a full-length album due in early ’10.

In 2009, we witnessed another fine release from the Norwegian duo, with their 3rd album, “Junior” with standout tracks including “The Girl and the Robot (ft Robyn” and “Röyksopp Forever”.

The Boys were back with a bang in ’09 with “Yes”, my favorite Pet Shop Boys album since “Actually”. “Love Etc.” was definitely my anthem for summer 2009.

The Big Pink’s debut sounds like a danceable mix of Jesus & Marychain and Cocteau Twins, with a twist. “Dominos” is my pick for the catchiest track of 2009.

Simian Mobile Disco resurfaces in 2009 with a song that manages to squeeze in every pop cultural reference under the sun, all with an infectious dance beat.

Even with the sitar at the beginning, this song is reminiscent of Basement Jaxx’s late-90s sound, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

What attracted me right away to this song? Maybe it’s the lo-fi feel of the track that sounds like the South Carolina native recorded it in his bedroom using a reel to reel? Nonetheless, Washed Out’s debut EP is a must own.

Words can’t even begin to describe this gorgeous track by Dirty Projectors. Take a listen and expect to hear more from them in 2010.

It was the year of Lady Gaga, who released the best follow-up album of 2009.

Another new band that completely won many people over (including David Letterman) in 2009 is Bat for Lashes, led by Pakistani/Brit Natasha Khan (pictured above). Her mesmerizing voice always makes me reach for my “Hounds of Love” album.

The song was actually released in 2008 and then re-released in ’09 along with “Bulletproof”, another outstanding E.P. Although the English singer was born in the late 1980s’, her music is very reminiscent of all my favorite synth-pop bands from that decade – (just listen to “Mange Tout” by Blancmange or Depeche Mode’s first three albums).

While I wasn’t blown away by their second album “Show Your Bones” (especially after their masterful 2003 debut), I fell in love again with Karen O’s singing after hearing “Zero” from their 2009 release, “It’s Blitz”.

The Goddess is back with a song that defines this past decade! The official release date is Feb 8, 2010 and I have a feeling that Sade will also make my best of ’10 list next December.

Animal Collective’s album (already a modern day classic), “Merriweather Post Pavilion”, was released in the early days of 2009. “My Girls” has been on constant replay throughout the year, especially this remix by Dave Wrangler.

Read and listen to the top 10 Desilicious tracks of 2009.

Posted: December 22nd, 2009
Tags: 2009, Best, music, Non-Desi, songs, Top