The British act Jungle had a big hit with “Back on 74” — and its unforgettable dance video — in 2023. Now, the group is back with “Carry On,” a breezy, sun-dappled song about surviving a broken heart. We give it a spin to open the show, along with a study on optimism from one of José González’s best albums, a celestial ambient cut from throat singer Tanya Tagaq and more.

NPR classical critic Tom Huizenga joins host Robin Hilton as they update their running list of the year’s best songs.

(00:00) Intro

(01:03) Jungle: “Carry On” from ‘SUNSHINE’

(07:42) Gabriel Kahane & Roomful of Teeth: “Not Even the Dead” from ‘Elevator Songs’

(14:23) Quiet Light: “Self Tape” from ‘Blue Angel Sparkling Silver 2’

(23:34) Tanya Tagaq: “Imiq” from ‘Saputjiji’

(31:13) José González: “Etyd” from ‘Against the Dying of the Light’

(37:49) Giya Kancheli: “Middelheim” from ‘Kancheli: Ex contrario, Middelheim & Tsutisopeli’

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