Rock Revolver: David Bowie

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The third and final part of our annual festive album countdown covers the finest top five albums released in 2013. From Arctic Monkeys to Arcade Fire only the best have guaranteed themselves a slot at the top, so who made it? Read on to find out.

#5 - David Bowie 'The Next Day'

When news of 'The Next Day' arrived unexpectedly on Bowie's 66th Birthday back in January, we were all a little dubious to say the least. However, Bowie's first album in ten years is one with an abundance of naked emotion and intense melodies that casts any lingering doubts aside.

Reverting back to core Bowie mode on the 70s glam-rock inspired 'The Stars (Are Out Tonight) and elegantly urgent '(You Will) Set The World On Fire' - it's not hard to see why this impressive comeback album is as a vacuum of triumph and delights that you will unquestionably be sucked into.

'The Next Day' was released on 8th March and charted at #1 in the UK Albums Chart.

#4 - Foals 'Holy Fire'

Oxford quintet Foals took a giant leap forward with 'Holy Fire' - an album that saw them go above and beyond in their quest to reign triumphant. Their third studio album impressed with evocative dark and brooding riffs and melodies that earned them a Mercury Prize nomination and their first festival headline slot at Latitude this summer

Stand-out tracks included the gloriously hooky 'My Number' a sucker-punch tune that sizzles with summer vibes and tipped them over the edge into the pit of success that ensued. Whilst, 'Inhaler' with it's intense, chugging nature serving as the perfect contrast to softer and more subtle tracks such as the gorgeous 'Milk & Black Soldiers'. The finishing touch is 'Providence' documenting the tenfold energy present at their gigs.

'Holy Fire' was released on 11th February and charted at #2 in the UK Albums Chart.

#3 - Haim 'Days Are Gone'

Haim time arrived and swept us all into a frenzy of excitement and chilled Californian vibes in the year that was 2013 - not once did the trio made up of sisters Este, Danielle and Alana fail to live up to the hype. They delivered a breezy debut thick with an avalanche of potential hits and eternal glittering promise.

The cascading drum machine on 'Falling' sets itself apart alongside 'Let Me Go' which is sealed with thick percussion, elements of their live show and a charm that dirties those that listen. Haim's debut was an album that made us want to round up our siblings and form a rock band. Take note; Haim are the future.

'Days Are Gone' was released on 30th September and charted at #1 in the UK Albums Chart.

#2 - Arcade Fire 'Reflektor'

On their fourth release, Montreal-based Arcade Fire decided to do things a little differently that resulted in 'Reflektor'. Evoking far too many heart-in-your-mouth moments to count, few expected 'Reflektor' to be the masterpiece that it undoubtedly is.

From a brilliant street art campaign, to enlisting the help of David Bowie for backing vocal duties, Arcade Fire were unstoppable throughout the latter half of 2013. Not even complaints from fans when required to don fancy dress in order to gain access to gigs could halt them.

Tracks such as the 70s-esque 'We Exist' and the experimental yet catchy 'You already Know' enabled the group to secure their claim as one of the decade's most important bands.

'Reflektor' was released on 28th October and charted at #1 in the UK Albums Chart.

#1 - Arctic Monkeys 'AM'

Dividing opinions has become something of a speciality for Sheffield four-piece Arctic Monkeys, however it was fifth release 'AM' that spawned an epic and mixed up the mood once again. The only distinction being that this time, all minds were made up that 'AM' is one of the (if not) greatest albums to have been released in 2013.

An album that sees them mix the darker, brooding moments of 2009's 'Humbug' with the autobiographical elements of their 2006 debut 'Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not' and the soft love-stricken ballads of 2011's 'Suck It And See'. Maybe it's the LA-effect but we like it.

'AM' was released on 09th September and charted at #1 in the UK Albums Chart.

Words Lauren Wade

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Alternative London four-piece, Flyte cast themselves as a crossover between Theme Park, Franz Ferdinand and The 1975 on the debut EP Live. Citing their influences as Elvis Costello, David Bowie and Joy Divison, the currently unsigned group make a unique blend of indie rock that serves their style alone. Their debut three-track EP is due for release on 16 September, and with Radiohead engineer and Vaccines producer Dan Grech-Marguerat on board it sees the group penning light-hearted tunes that were made for the radio.

Title track Over And Out is a bouncy little number with an infectious jerky groove. With hooks as glorious as what we're getting here, it will make people dance like they've been banned all their life (we're talking Footloose style). Frontman Will Taylor also has a deeply distinct vocal range that sets tracks apart. Followed by Chasing Heaven, Flyte come across all Kooks-esque on us, in a manner reminiscent of 2006's Naïve.

Finishing on a high note with Words Come Easily, the initial instrumental section works wonders, before dropping into Taylor's vocals once more. Throwing in a few mind-melting melodies here and there, it's proven they're really on to something. For a bunch of newbies to be so slick and accomplished is no mean feat. After playing a sold-out show at the Lexington in London recently, it's clear the tides are turning and Flyte are about to undergo a journey that will see them reap the praise they undoubtedly deserve. Get on their sound and earn bragging rights whilst you still can.

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After a perpetual stream of campaigning in previous weeks, Canadian indie rock group Arcade Fire's new track Reflektor leaked a day prior to the band's planned unveiling in New York City. With a fourth album (of the same name) scheduled for release in late October, the hype machine has gone into overdrive and is about to combust, but is the new track (thought to be the lead single from their forthcoming release) any good?

With David Bowie providing backing vocals, the sub-eight minute track is certainly not one to disappoint. The oddly infectious disco beat is a swift U-turn away from previous material, one that you wouldn't necessarily have them pinned down for, but yet sees them take their sound in the direction of the big time. An audibly pleasing potential hit that will hook you on their sounds; if you weren't a fan of Arcade Fire before - you will be now.

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Released in 1972, David Bowie's tribute song Andy Warhol (from the 1971 album Hunky Dory) is remarkable for many reasons. From the way Bowie corrects his producer Ken Scott on the pronunciation of 'Warhol' to the raw honesty of the track, this song shows that everybody has their inspirations (including icons).

At a time when Bowie was just becoming a household name, this track proved to the listening public that he was an artist genuinely about the music; he had potential which was clearly shining through. Labelled by Rolling Stone as "darling of the avant garde" it always worked in his favour that he wasn't afraid to get experimental and do things a little differently. This tune is different to his other work but still feels as exciting as every persona Bowie has ever donned.

The acoustic guitar accompaniment livens up the track, whilst giving it a tender feel. If anyone can pull it off - it would be this man. David Bowie is king of the contradictions and never seems to put a foot wrong. Bowie's burst of laughter at the start of the track completes it entirely, allowing a rare glimpse into the true identity of the star. In addition, the twin guitar lines are an interesting feature which only adds to its chirpiness.

As one of the lesser known Bowie numbers, it could be suggested the appreciation for this track is not great enough. If you're new to his music or an loyal fan, give Andy Warhol a listen and prepare to become captivated by the legend of David Bowie.

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David Bowie is an indubitable music icon, one that has graced millions of record collections throughout his career. When new song Where Are We Now? was released (on his 66th Birthday) the news also broke that an album was to follow. Reverting back to classic Bowie mode (at it's core) the album does not disappoint.

Opening track The Next Day, has an air of anaphoric repetition similar to it's counterpart of 1977's Heroes, Beauty And The Beast. Both, containing a prominent rhythm and gleeful guitar licks that have you hooked from the onset. Bowie sets the record straight with lyric "Here I am, not quite dying" in an attempt to address those rumours of poor health, that have been circulating the scene for years. (He's fine guys, listen to the man!) In addition, this track is almost saying "Daddy's home." Dirty Boys continues the retrospective tone, a sultry number with Bowie's crooning vocals to be heard in the chorus. The standout lyric "You've got to learn to hold your tongue" is significant for the reason that it advises youthful musicians, and suggests a lesson the artist has learnt in the past.

Resorting back to an old favourite topic, The Stars (Are Out Tonight) is a vacuum of triumph and delights which you will unquestionably be sucked into to. This is definitely one of the stronger tracks from the record, and one that all fans (old and/or new) will treasure. Love Is Lost, a 70s inflicted funk number borrows aspects from the past whilst reinventing a perspective of the artist, who cannot take a step in public without his every move being scrutinised. This track implies an internal battle within the star. Breaking the upbeat formality, Bowie gives a reflective insight into that infamous Berlin era; nostalgia is not far off. If you're a fan of 70s track Heroes (but c'mon, who isn't?) then you will adore Valentine's Day, the ultimate anthem to accompany any memory.

As the album progresses, we glide through If You Can See Me, a faster, dizzier song which would work well sound tracking a psychedelic montage of Bowie's career so far. I'd Rather Be High has a Britpop feel and yet, manages to continue psych-pop elements which dazzle when paired with Bowie's unforgettable vocals. Boss Of Me, is more of a subtle track with an edge that fizzles over into a chiseled sax line and stories Bowie is unwilling to tell directly. Dancing Out In Space, is a finger clicking twanger filling you with positive vibes that will get just about anyone dancing. Jazzed up number (full of sass) How Does The Grass Grow? feels as if it would be more at home in the electronic 80s, yet there is an underlying element which leaves us unable to question it's place in 2013.

Definitely a highlight, (You Will) Set The World On Fire opens in a similar manner to tracks from Jack White's Blunderbuss. This is one of the more rockier numbers - everything about it screams excellence. The guitar licks and solos are the definitive aspect that leads it to perhaps being the best track altogether, on The Next Day. It's catchy and will latch onto your life after seconds of listening. You Feel So Lonely You Could Die, is a charming song of honesty that will tug at your heart strings.

As the album departs into the unknown future, an air of eeriness controls all with Heat. Bowie's future is clearly unspecified to fans and lyric "I don't know who I am" portrays him as being more down to earth and human, in comparison to the closely guarded mystery we have come to recognise. During the final seconds, the album flat lines and all we are left with is a haunting guitar strum that hints there could be more. Maybe this album was titled The Next Day for an implicit purpose; Bowie wants us to take it one day at a time and cease analysing his path before it has been paved.

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I've been so busy this week, but thankfully I've had plenty of music to get me through it all. Comment below and let me know what you think.

The Back Seat Of My Car - Thomas McConnell

I've mentioned Thomas McConnell quite a lot on here last year, but if you've listened to his music you'll see why, and now he's back with a cover version of a Paul McCartney classic. This is available to download for free via his website right now.

For fans of: Paul McCartney, The Strypes, The Turtles, The Beach Boys and David Bowie.

Smile Away - Paul McCartney, Linda McCartney

Yeah you can probably guess the last week has been a bit of a Sir Macca fest, but what's not to love? This track comes from the iconic RAM album. Monkberry Moon Delight is also one of my favourite tracks on this record, but I love everything about this album; it's genius. If you haven't heard it, then what are you waiting for?

For fans of: The Beatles, The Kinks, The Who, John Lennon and The Hollies.

Huey Lewis & The News - The Power Of Love

This song is from my favourite movie ever, that's Back to the Future in case you were unaware. Whenever I listen to this it empowers me in so many ways. It really is the ultimate feel good track.

For fans of: Duran Duran, Blondie, The Police, Pet Shop Boys and Simple Minds.

David Bowie - Oh! You Pretty Things

I find this to be the perfect song to relax to after a hard day. Bowie's vocals are soothing in general and nothing relaxes me more than this particular track. Give it a listen.

For fans of: Iggy Pop, Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, The Who and The Clash.

The Jam - Going Underground

Who doesn't love The Jam? They are just one of the greatest bands ever and this song does it for me. It's another feel good tune which will get you dancing. Give it a listen if you haven't already.

For fans of: Paul Weller, The Specials, Buzzcocks, The Kinks and The Stone Roses.

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David Bowie - Andy Warhol

This track is from Bowie's fourth album "Hunky Dory". The start of the song begins with Bowie correcting his producer Ken Scott, who had mispronounced Warhol's name, on the actual pronunciation. I like this song because it presents Bowie as a real person, with inspirations and experiencing some of life's awkward moments. For example after his studio chat with his producer, Bowie asks if the tape is rolling and when he discovers it is - laughter follows. This is Bowie at his best, go on give it a listen.

For fans of: Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, The Who, The Clash and Iggy Pop.

Bastille - Sleepsong

I discovered this band in August last year following their performance at Reading Festival. Fearne Cotton was hyping them up so I decided to give them a listen. From my first preview, I liked their sound and what they were doing but it wasn't enough to make me want to download the tracks. Although when iTunes released this a as a free download, I thought I'd give it another listen and I can confirm it was ten times better the second time round. Check it out now.

For fans of: Alt-J, The Neighbourhood, Dry the River, Maverick Sabre and Kodaline.

The Rolling Stones - Doom And Gloom

I love the Stones! I love this song! It's classic and it contains an uptempo blues attack which is catchy and so good. This is the track that leaves you wanting more. I would kill to see this band live. I really would.

For fans of: The Who, The Beatles, The Doors, The Beach Boys and Jimi Hendrix.

Wolf Alice - Fluffy

This woozy number has hints on punk with fantastic vocals from Ellie Rowsell. I've heard this a lot on the radio, and it's one of those songs which grow on you over time. Give it a listen.

For fans of: The XX, Jessie Ware, Chvrches, Haim and Disclosure.

Muse - Supremacy

I was introduced to this track in October when Muse released their sixth studio album "The 2nd Law". This is the opening song on the record, and I believe it's a great opening number. It's classic Muse with Bellamy's trademark vocals and apocalyptic clashing of instruments. This is the band's latest single (and I think it would have been perfect for the latest James Bond film) so what are you waiting for? Get this in your life now.

For fans of: The Killers, The Strokes, Radiohead, Kasabian and Franz Ferdinand.

Are you a fan of any of the artists featured? Have you heard any of these songs before? What should I listen to next? Comment below.

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What an eventful week it's been with David Bowie's surprise comeback and announcement of new material, The Brit Awards nominations finally being revealed and Black Sabbath unveiling the name of their upcoming album. It really does look like 2013 is turning out to be an exciting year for music.

David Bowie - Where Are We Now?

As a longtime fan of David Bowie, I was delighted that on his 66th Birthday he decided to release a new single, and announce plans for his album "The Next Day" to be released in March. As 2012 was all about The Stone Roses, will 2013 be all about David Bowie? Time will only tell.

For fans of: Iggy Pop, Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, The Who and The Doors.

Arctic Monkeys - Fright Lined Dining Room

Yes, I know this is a B side but honestly I think that Arctic Monkeys' b sides are better than some of their actual single releases. This is definitely my favourite track by this band - give it a listen.

For fans of: The Strokes, The Vaccines, Queens Of The Stone Age, Oasis and Kasabian.

Biffy Clyro - Black Chandelier

With some songs it really does take a while before they start to grow on you, and this is the case with Biffy Clyro's latest track. I've been listening to it on the radio for ages, however it wasn't until last night when I saw the band perform on The Jonathan Ross Show that I appreciated it.

For fans of: Jimmy Eat World, White Lies, Feeder, Kaiser Chiefs and Twin Atlantic.

Foals - My Number

I have been a fan of Foals for many years and I am really excited for the release of their new album next month. Foals' first release from Holy Fire was a track called "Inhaler" and both of the aforementioned songs portray Foals as heading into a new musical direction. Things are looking promising for the band.

For fans of: Friendly Fires, The Drums, The Big Pink, The Maccabees and Delphic.

Ben Howard - Call Me Maybe (Cover)

I cannot stand the original version of this song, however I adore Ben Howard and he managed to rework this track into something beautiful. Just give it a listen and fall in love; you can thank me later.

For fans of: The Lumineers, The Velvet Underground, Bombay Bicycle Club, Noah And The Whale and Daughter.

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Musical icon, David Bowie has hit the headlines this morning (January 8) by breaking his decade of silence. He has released a new single called "Where Are We Now?" which is his latest release since 2003's "Reality".

The track appeared on iTunes at 5am, with a music video appearing on his website. Radio stations were amongst the first to break the news to British fans. It was also announced that an album called "The Next Day" is to follow on March 11.

London's V&A will be unveiling to the public their Bowie exhibition, charting his career, designed as a retrospective of his legacy. This is to be opened on March 23.

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Iggy Pop (born James Newell Osterberg, Jr.) is an icon for many reasons. He is infamous for being one of the innovators of punk rock during the 70's, and gained a reputation as a member of The Stooges - due to his controversial behaviour and unpredictable stage antics. Pop was also heavily involved in the drug scene during the 70's with fellow musicians and journalists.

Aided by his friend David Bowie, Iggy Pop achieved commercial success and enabled him to reach incredible heights in his career.

In 1986 Pop became more mainstream after the release of his record 'Real Wild Child'. His biggest hit was 'Candy' released in 1990.

His career has continued over the decades and albums have been released with the help of fellow Stooges members. 'The Passenger' is one of Pop's most famous songs and this is my favourite of his.

Are you a fan of Iggy Pop? What is your favourite song/album of his? Do you think he would have been as successful without Bowie's involvement? Comment below.

David Bowie is the man who created the image, the theatrical persona (which Lady Gaga now claims as her own) and we have seen him as the experimental artiste bringing joy to millions over the years. What is it about Bowie (born as David Robert Jones) that intrigues and captivates though? Join us as we explore Bowie's legacy and more.

Catapulted to stardom and the nation's hearts in 1969, with his psychedelic rock tune 'Space Odditity' this was enough to ensure that he would never fade from the public consciousness, even long after he stopped recording.

His cultural impact was always deliberate and focused on making a mark, and this he did. Bowie conceived his infamous hallmarks early on in his career: the theatrical narrative, outlandish styling and eyeliner.

Bowie was once quoted as saying "I'm an instant star. Just add water and stir." It could be argued that it was his unfaltering confidence, that allowed him to reinvent himself over and over again without anyone really complaining. Whilst Alan Cumming commented "He's always been ahead of the curve. He's been an artist who's constantly reinvented himself. It's not been about following a trend, it's been about pursuing his own artistic vision and developing as an artist. He's always been this person who's seeking out the new, the exciting and the other."

David Bowie has always been a complex man to understand, both in his songs and personal life, but it is these layers of mystery which add to the enigmatic stage presence we have all grown to adore. He may not have worn a meat dress, but it was Bowie who created the image and whose legacy will not be forgotten.