Critics' Top Songs of 2023

The music scene in 2023 has been a rollercoaster of emotions and creativity, presenting the world with sounds that speak to every turn. Celebrated bands have disbanded, like Camp Cope in Australia, leaving their mark on the industry, while new and old artists alike have graced fans with audial treasures. Here's a collection of this year's standout songs handpicked by our critics.

Boygenius Hits Gold

After a five-year gap, the supergroup boygenius returned with a long-awaited full-length album titled The Record. The track Not Strong Enough showcases Phoebe Bridgers, Julien Baker, and Lucy Dacus in their prime, blending their singular talents in an indie anthem that promises a luminous future for this talented trio.

Genesis Owusu's Bold Statement

The Canberra rapper Genesis Owusu's follow-up album Struggler turned heads with its Kafka-inspired narrative and unique sound, especially on the track Stay Blessed, which merges indie rock with a dynamic rap flow, securing Owusu's place as a trailblazer in the Australian music circle.

Charli XCX Captures Barbie's Heart

Amidst the buzz of Greta Gerwig's Barbie, Charli XCX's Speed Drive stood out, reflecting the film's zany spirit and engraving itself onto playlists with a catchy rework of Toni Basil's classic hit Hey Mickey.

Miley Cyrus' Empowering Anthem

Flowers, Miley Cyrus' powerful return, brought fans an irresistible tune that reinterprets Bruno Mars' well-loved When I Was Your Man. Rumored to be about her past relationship with Liam Hemsworth, it became an anthem of self-care and resilience.

Taylor Swift's Heartfelt Melody

No review of 2023's music can miss Taylor Swift, whose bonus track You’re Losing Me from her album Midnights touched hearts worldwide. Its intimate lyrics and emotional bridge exemplify why Swift's artistry continues to resonate deeply with fans.

RVG's Post-Punk Excellence

Melbourne's secret gem, RVG, steps into the spotlight with their album Brain Worms and the standout track Squid, a peculiar tale that combines existential reflection with vivid imagery, showcasing Romy Vager's maturing songcraft.

Angie McMahon's Soothing Soundscapes

In her album Light, Dark, Light Again, Angie McMahon presents Letting Go, a track that offers solace through its expansive sound and stirring vocals, encouraging listeners to embrace their imperfections and find comfort in evolution.

Tkay Maidza's High-Energy Collaboration

Silent Assassin, a dynamic partnership between Tkay Maidza and Flume, builds a sonic landscape that complements Maidza's impressive rap style, drawing from various musical influences to forge something completely unique.

Tia Gostelow's Throwback Pop

The single Spring to Life from Tia Gostelow's third album, Head Noise, delightfully blends retro and modern pop, creating a track full of nostalgic saxophone sounds mixed with contemporary beats, reflecting the complexity of young love.

Maple Glider's Poignant Message

Last but not least, Maple Glider offers Don’t Kiss Me, a song that's been eagerly awaited by fans since her live shows. This delicate track boldly addresses the themes of consent and the treatment of women, all delivered with Tori Zietsch's haunting vocals and stunning songwriting.

Miley, MapleGlider, songs