The top tracks of 2014 (15-11)

Incredibly 2014 is almost up. And that means one thing – it’s time for “Team Wiwi’s Top Tracks of The Year”. Just like in 2013, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite releases and recordings by Eurovision stars. Songs which competed at Eurovision or national finals were excluded (they’ve been analysed to death in our jury reviews), as were artists who’ve never made it to the Eurovision stage (sorry Ace and Adelén). And this year we’ve decided to supersize and create a Top 50 – there was just too much great music for us to ignore. So #JoinUs as we continue our daily countdown. Today we look at numbers 15 through to 11.

15. “Vive” – Pastora Soler

What we said: In a marked change from her other singles post-Eurovision, Pastora goes up-tempo. The song talks about embracing the sun and embracing life—the title literally translates as ‘Live’. The bright video, which shows Pastora dancing in a field, is airy and uplifting. Of course, you also get the flawless Pastora Soler vocals we’ve all come to expect. It’s nice to see her mix up the formula to prove that she isn’t just about the power ballads. This is poised to be a summer hit, but you also get the sense that there’s something slightly more to the song than the heat of summer. (Chris)

14. “Lock Up Your Daughter” – Molly Smitten-Downes

What we said: The “Lock Up Your Daughter” video is wonderfully retro, and fits perfectly with the overall feel of the track. We particularly love the Marilyn Monroe tribute and the New York hip hoppers. Look closely and you’ll even spot a cameo from the main lady herself. Our only concern is that this wild child anthem might lead the adorable little waving girl astray. We trust Molly will look after her. “Lock Up Your Daughter” is easily one of the best post Eurovision releases of the year. (Padraig)

13. “Right Place Right Time” – Indyana feat. Anggun

What we said: France’s Eurovision 2012 contestant recently performed her new single “Right Place Right Time” during the grand final of Indonesia’s Got Talent. Anggun shows her clubby side with this electronic dance number, which offered a bit of inspiration to the show’s finalists: “You’re in the right place, you’re in the right time, We’re the dreamers, believers, with the future in our eyes…” Despite throwing down some after-hours dance moves, her voice remains in-tune, on-point and as silky and dark as you remember from Eurovision. Yes, mama! (William)

12. “In A World Without You” – Nicolas Costa feat. Freaky Fortune

What we said: Though it might be all Greek in production and composition, this song is pure head-spinning Balearic dance at its best. Costa’s production is absolutely thumping through the first two verses until the middle 8 when it strips back to understated piano play. The beat then rises slowly—and then suddenly under a soaring high note from Nick. Yasssss! (Angus)

11. “Rainmaker” – Emmelie De Forest

What we said: We LOVED the song, but the cover art left us a little cold… digital artists have transformed the apple-cheeked Eurovision winner into a generic sex kitten. She looks into our eyes as if to invite us to her boudoir when all we want is to hear her sing “Only Teardrops”. Apparently rainmakers don’t wear clothes. They stand nude and look conquettish while whispering, “Buy my single, buy my face…” The last time we checked making rain was all about being natural. This image is not. (William)