Pop Music

I saw a woman on the tube the other week and, for a multitude of reasons, she didn't look like she invested any time in seeking out music. At the time I was awash in musical snobbery, feeling ever-so-smug listening to the recently leaked Caribou album, tickets firmly in hand to the upcoming Phoenix gig. And, as I was looking at this woman, she pulled out her iPod and I wondered just what exactly she was listening to. She had an iPod, so she must have at some point actively chosen and downloaded something to listen to. But what (first guess: Black Eyed Peas)? The answer:

Conversely, I was also recently talking to someone even coolier-than-thou, who joked "What do I need with another Beach House or Caribou?".

Beach House : Norway

And that brought it all into focus. Perhaps I could do with a little perspective. There is plenty of other music out there. I don't even know what is in the top ten. And I should. So, in the interests of balance, I need some more pop. Something to take me past Kelly Clarkson without having to delve into tired covers from X Factor/Idol (yes, I am aware of the irony here). Does this sort of thing count?

Elvis Costello : Pump It Up

As always, even pop doesn't have to be major label, so here are a couple of favourites from 7" pop masters Neon Gold. First up, their new single from Mr. Little Jeans:

Mr. Little Jeans : Angel

And 2009's take on Prince-styled 80's pop:

Yes Giantess : Tuff 'n Stuff