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’Support the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy