Top 5 Cover Songs of 2013

I have to admit, I've always been a sucker for cover songs. Sometimes they are imaginative, other times they seem like a completely different track all together. The juxtaposition of original artist and current, can bridge the gap between genres, decades, etc. So much can be said with a cover song: "I respect the original artist", "Look at we can do", "Someone recognize me!". And on that note, here are (in my opinion) the top 5 cover songs of 2013.

5. Daughter "Get Lucky" (Daft Punk Cover).

It was catchy as hell when "Get Lucky" came out as the debut single for Daft Punk's latest album. Unknown artist Daughter, stripped it down to a jazzy, low-key ballad. This cover gives the song a bit more a of serious presence as Daughter aims for the recognition in the indie music world. 

4. Tame Impala "Prototype" (Outkast cover). 

So many cool things are happening with this cover. The fact that a psych-rock band from Australia would pay tribute to a Georgia-based hip-hop duo is next level. This cover is everything you imagine it would be. It's melodic, peaceful, a little less funky but a lot more chill.

3. Haim "I'll Try Anything Once" (The Strokes). 

The demo of version of this song was uncovered a while back and became pretty popular on the indie circuit. Julian softly sang along with a tinsy piano. It was intimate and delicate. Haim paid homage to The Strokes by covering this track. With a single synth-sound and an occasional clap machine, their version is a different animal but the same sweet little creature.

2. Arctic Monkey "Hold On, We're Going Home" (Drake Cover). 

Arctic Monkey have given a breath of new life to this Drake single. If you have never heard the original, you would simply think this is an unreleased track from The Arctic Monkey's latest album. It's so sexy, it's so sleek, it's so them. Step off Drake.

1. Passion Pit "Carry On" (Fun Cover).

The first few times I heard this song, it was only for the first 10 seconds. Then, finally, Dennis let his alarm play all the way through one morning. Passion Pit's approach to Fun's single is heartfelt and quite the statement considering the fact that frontman Micheal Angelakos has had difficulties with mental illness. This cover is simple and uplifting. 

*and I couldn't help but add this little treasure. After all, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. John, I'm surprised you didn't do this (or have you?)

Highlight - 1:59

XO - Amanda