Halfway there but not half-hearted.

Let’s look at three songs that have defined 2018’s opening six months.

“Humility”
Gorillaz

While rarely described as cheerful, the legendary virtual band’s music tends to shine whenever the gloom is replaced with a dash of optimism. A quick follow up to 2017’s comeback album, Gorillaz’s “Humility” is not only a lot more laid-back than anything on “Humanz ” but shows a renewed focus on Damon Albarn’s vocals. Benefiting from a fabulous guest feature by jazz guitarist George Bensen, “Humility” might lack a memorable hook, but nobody can resist Albarn’s vocals over a sprightly tune. If the music video is anything to go by, Jack Black seems to agree.

“This Is America”
Childish Gambino

Describing this chart-topping masterpiece as merely a pop song would be a gross understatement. Fusing elements of trap, afrobeat, and gospel; Donald Glover returned to the music scene with Childish Gambino’s most ambitious track to date. Working in conjunction with the provocative music video that juxtapositions silly viral dances with graphic depictions of violence, “This is America” tackles racial stereotypes while examining the entertainment industry’s influence on the public. Referencing everything from Jim Crow to the Charleston church shooting, Gambino’s “This is America” is 2018 in a nutshell.

“Psycho”
Post Malone Feat. Ty Dolla $ign

Looks like the New York-born rapper is here to stay! After hitting the ground running with 2015’s debut single “White Iverson” and reaching the top of the charts with “Rockstar,” Post Malone has cornered the market for mellow rap music over a lethargic trap beat. Dealing with the struggles of fame and the inability to trust anyone, “Psycho” knows better than to reinvent the wheel; nevertheless, the accessible song showcases a confident artist who is fully in control of their sound. While detractors are unlikely to be impressed, “Psycho” is the quintessential Post Malone track.

What’s your favorite track of 2018 so far?