This week served as a huge week for MP3s, spanning for a multitude of massive returns (Eminem and Prince), a series of much-anticipated fresh cuts (Volcano Choir and Nine Inch Nails), and even collaborations that you thought could be dreamt of (Phoenix & R. Kelly, YACHT & Mac Maron). Some MP3s even sparked a degree of controversy across the music scene, such as Lady Gaga and Katy Perry’s strides to be Pop Queen or Kendrick Lamar’s audacity to be the top man of hip-hop. It’s impossible not to find something to tickle your fancy in this batch.
10. Phoenix & R.Kelly – “Trying to Be Cool” (Remix)
After revving “Ignition” through the outfit’s legendary single, and our personal favorite, “1901”, as part of a surprise performance at Coachella 2013, the extremely-random-but-amazing collaboration of Phoenix and R. Kelly was bound to go a second round. Unconsciously considering the R&B crooner’s social personal, “Trying to Be Cool” is a hilarious and perfect foundation to resurrect such a beautiful moment. Kells assists the outift in returning the band’s soulful tones of Alphabetical with his bold vocals, delicate back-up assistance, and impressive falsetto croons that bring the track into a completely new dimension. His sexy verse sounds like a typical R. Kelly song and nothing like Thomas’ more insightful lyrics, but that’s what makes it even better. –Sam Willett
