The year is only half over — but it’s never too early to start rounding up the strongest tracks of 2014.
Halfway through 2014, there’s already an embarrassment of riches in the realm of music — from blockbuster pop singles to epic indie ballads, ace songs from artists both new and established have provided the year with an exceptional soundtrack.
Here, TIME contributors Lily Rothman, Nolan Feeney, Megan Gibson, Jamieson Cox, Melissa Locker and Sam Lansky pick the 25 best songs of the year — so far:
Mariah Carey, “Make It Look Goodâ€
On this cut from the Elusive Chanteuse’s 14th studio album, Carey navigates a stuttering, soulful arrangement with her typical vocal agility and lyrical dexterity. Time may have shaved a few notes from the top of her infamous range, but they’re hardly missed here: this is timeless, sweet pop, perfect for summers spent falling in love. -Jamieson Cox
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“Make It Look Good,” is featured on Mariah Carey’s latest album, which can be purchased digitally from the following outlets:
Standard: Google Play | iTunes
Deluxe: Google Play | iTunes
Source: Time Magazine