Hits: Radio Is Dangerous 2/09

Sweet bliss! I finally got a new computer, switching to a new MacBook after years of disappointing results with my Dell. Not only is it actually functional (as opposed to teetering dangerously close to death), but the Blogger interface is much more user-friendly for Macs. To celebrate, here is the first installment of Radio Is Dangerous, a new monthly playlist feature including tracks from my personal "radio" playlist. Of course, you may never hear some of these singles on an actual radio station (especially not in America, unless you're lucky enough to have independent or satellite radio access), but it's fun to pretend. As with actual radio playlists, each month's selections won't be a totally new set of songs, but a mix of lingering hits and fresh tracks that have come out over the past month. With each new installment, I'll make a new post to debrief some of the new additions to the playlist. This doesn't spell the end of the "Hits" pages, as I'll keep having updates on new tracks and videos as they come out.

Saint Etienne, "Method Of Modern Love": Featured on the long-delayed hits set London Conversations: The Best Of Saint Etienne (see my preview here), "Method Of Modern Love" is the most dancefloor-friendly Saint Etienne single since "Action." With streamlined modern production assistance courtesy of Richard X, no fan should miss this new gem.
Lily Allen, "Not Fair": Though just announced as her sophomore album's second single, "Not Fair" is already lodging itself in my regular rotation. With a unique twang and bouncy hook, it should keep up her undeniable momentum.
Deadmau5, "Ghosts N Stuff": While not quite as epic as "The Reward Is Cheese" or "Arguru," "Ghosts N Stuff" keeps up Deadmau5's profile as a rising leader in gritty electro-house.
Coldplay, "Life In Technicolor II": Far surpassing the instrumental teaser version that opened Viva La Vida, the full vocal recording of "Life In Technicolor" is one of the era's standouts and a classic Coldplay track.
Britney Spears, "If U Seek Amy": Relying heavily on the title's obvious pun, "If U Seek Amy" doesn't make a whole lot of lyrical sense, but it does succeed as an insanely catchy throwaway pop song. It's a relief to hear that Britney is even capable of still making them!
Kelly Clarkson, "My Life Would Suck Without You": Roaring back to the top of the charts thanks to hit factories Max Martin and Dr. Luke, Kelly gave up some of her last album's rough edges and revitalized her pop side on one of her catchiest singles yet.