Sidetwo’s Decade Ending List, Part 4

We’re getting close, into the Top 20 now. Music from a soul legend, a New Jersey Boss, a bunch of power popsters, an Irish powerhouse and a Canadian talent that will be sorely missed are among those in this batch. There’s only ten more to go. Care to guess what’s No. 1?

20. Don’t Give Up On Me–Solomon Burke (Don’t Give Up On Me)

A new classic from a soul legend. Powerful stuff.

19. No Such Thing–John Mayer (Room for Squares)

From the album that kicked off a hugely successful career. And he’s a damn fine guitarist, too.

18. Are You Gonna Be My Girl–JET (Get Born)

A great blast of rock n roll from Down Under. Too bad their follow-ups haven’t been as strong.

17. Little Red Light–Fountains Of Wayne (Welcome Interstate Managers)

From the album that brought us Stacy’s Mom. Great power pop with a sense of humour. Love it.

16. Not Ready To Go–The Trews (House of Ill Fame)

See No. 26. And turn it up.

15. My City Of Ruins–Bruce Springsteen (The Rising)

Fact is he wrote it about his hometown, before 9/11 happened. But when we saw him sing it on the America: A Tribute To Heroes special, it proved to be an incredibly moving tribute, and a rallying cry to rise up.

14. Gypsy Biker–Bruce Springsteen (Magic)

The E-Street Band turns out another winner. On record, Gypsy Biker simply kicked ass. In concert, however, they took it to a whole new level. Like, the moon. The guitar duel is awesome.

13. New Wave–Against Me! (New Wave)

Saw these guys open up for Foo Fighters on the Foos last tour. And now they’re the opener for Billy Talent. Always a bridesmaid, never a bride. But they rock like there’s no tomorrow. Great stuff.

12. Vertigo–U2 (How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb)

1, 2, 3, 14. Ok, so Bono can’t count. But it’s still got a good beat and you can dance to it.

11. Can’t Stop–Jacksoul (Sleepless)

This isn’t on here because of Haydain Neale’s recent passing, which is a tremendous loss to the Canadian musical community. This is on here because it’s a great song. Period.