The Bias List is a K-pop blog that also covers a fair amount of J-pop. But along with most music fans, I enjoy tracks from all around the world. So, I thought I’d start a monthly round-up of some of the non-K-pop songs that have caught my ear. No ratings — just highlights!

February 2022 Edition

March 2022 Edition

April 2022 Edition

May 2022 Edition

June 2022 Edition

July 2022 Edition

August 2022 Edition

September 2022 Edition

October 2022 Edition

Ava Max – Weapons

Often, when I hear a new Ava Max track for the first time I think: “this is nice, but a bit generic.” Then, it worms its way into my head and I find myself playing it over and over. Weapons is no different. It’s a hooky stealth attack.

Darin – Satisfaction

The always-excellent Darin takes a page from George Michael and delivers an addictive slice of brittle funk pop. I love the vocal effects on this one.

Madison Rose – Thunder

If you’re a fan of pop music, you owe it to yourself to listen to Madison Rose’s Technicolor — quite possibly the best pure-pop album of the year. It’s out in deluxe version now, and Thunder is the most bombastic new b-side.

MEDUN ft. Marcus & Martinus – Gimme Your Love

Another burst of bright, buoyant nu-disco pop for your playlist, courtesy of two Norwegian performers and an Austrian producer.

Mike Posner – I’m Not Dead Yet (Ellis Edit)

The original version of I’m Not Dead Yet is fine, but this re-edit gives it the oomph it needs to really soar. I love the guitar crunch of that chorus.

Octpath – Like

I didn’t get a chance to write about this funky J-pop offering (and it probably should’ve been included in last month’s round-up), but better late than never! It’s a ton of fun, and the guys have a Japanese cover of Carly Rae Jepsen & Owl City’s Good Time on the single if that’s your thing!

Tiesto – 10:35 (ft. Tate McRae)

This is straightforward dance music, but its little idiosyncrasies are so addictive. I love when the beat drops for the chorus.

Zipang Opera – Like A Wolf

This is my kind of bombastic J-pop ballad, fueled by gorgeous melodies, theatrical guitar and strings, and a go-for-broke vocal performance.