The Best Songs of 2007 - #15 - #11

This batch seems to be all about the vocals. But first, let's talk some guitar:

15. "The Sons of Cain" by Ted Leo & the Pharmacists - Ted Leo is a guitar god. Want proof? Just listen to the intro of this song. Is he playing a rhythm part or is it a lead? Is it both? Whatever it is, it's effing awesome. And then there's his voice, which is always great. Also, worth noting is the wonderfully banged out piano climb in the middle of the song right before the breakdown.

14. "Florida" by Modest Mouse - Sometimes when Isaac Brock sings he sounds like a raving lunatic. And for some ungodly reason, I love it. The crazier he sounds, the better. Bring the crazy, Isaac! Bring me the crazy! This song also features backing vocals by the Shin's main man, James Mercer. Plus, new MM member and alt-rock guitar legend Johnny Marr really shines on this track.

13. "Down Boy" by Yeah Yeah Yeahs - There's a lot of energy in this song, yet Karen O maintains a rather smoothed out delivery. Sure, there are a few "yowws!" throughout the track and a particularly spectacular "huh!" after the second verse, but for the most part, she keeps the histrionics in check while the guys get to wailing on the instruments.

12. "Don't You Evah" by Spoon - I don't normally go for studio chatter on songs, but it works here. It kind of adds a looseness to the atmosphere. Britt Daniels supplies one of the best vocal melodies of the year with this track. It's a smooth, groovy delivery. No words sound forced and the vocal rhythm never sounds awkward.

11. "Phantom Limb" by The Shins - I guess technically this single was released during the last month of 2006, but its presence continued to be felt during the first few months of this year. James Mercer busts out a beautiful, almost effortless sounding vocal performance for this song. He continues to be one of the best singers in indie rock, as well as an amazing lyricist.