Best Remix
Jayda G & Alexa Dash, “Diva Bitch (Jayda G Get Down On Your Knees Mix)”
Jayda is one of the best producers / DJs in the game — she knows her stuff when it comes to classic house and disco! This track is reminiscent of all the best old school, Chicago house tunes with an upbeat rhythm and melody, as well as a sassy vocal demanding excellence in a man.
Best LP/EP
Robyn, Honey
Probably the most anticipated release of the year due to her long absence from the music scene, Robyn did not disappoint with her new record. Retaining all the classic pop, electronic and R&B elements from her earlier years while adding a more experimental edge when it came to songwriting and arrangement, she knew that it was important to retain her fan base, yet offer something new.
Best New Artist
The APX
The Atlanta-based, husband and wife electro-boogie-funk duo of Dee and Erika Rhodes is truly one of the most exciting acts I have discovered recently. I just love their infectious energy, clear love for music and their strong 80s boogie influences. Now I just need to go see them live!
Track of the Year
Peggy Gou, “It Makes You Forget (Itgehane)”
I had mentioned in an early Feedback Friday column that it was my favorite track of the year and that it was going to be hard to top this release; my mind has not changed. A versatile dance track that can be played anywhere, from high-end restaurants to pool parties to techno warehouses, and everyone would fall in love. It is already a classic and I don’t think I will ever get tired of playing it.
Artist of the Year
Yuksek
Just about anything Yuksek releases is a winner, and he has released both strong originals and remixes this year. He truly is a master of the disco sound.
Favorite Show of the Year
The Internet and Moonchild at the Fillmore Silver Spring
Most people fail to sense this about me, but I am a HUGE R&B/Soul fanatic. These two bands put on two incredible evenings of music back in December at the Fillmore (I attended the sold out December 4th show). Utilizing strong instrumentation with live and electronic elements, The Internet and Moonchild exuded incredible energy and love for their fans and will have long careers in this business.
Label of the Year
Ninja Tune
Ninja Tune has had an incredibly strong year with top notch releases from Peggy Gou, Marie Davidson, and Little Dragon. Things can only get better from here!
DC Artist to Watch
NUEX
I am in love with their dark synthpop/R&B sound and their most recent EP, Affectus, is incredibly promising — I can’t wait to hear what they have in store next!