The Local’s top ten Swedish songs of 2014

1. Tove Lo – Habits

Our top tip for 2014 ended up releasing a succession of big singles, including this one which was a global hit.

2. Seinabo Sey – Younger

In a great year for Swedish soul this, from another of our tips for 2014, was perhaps the highlight. But there’s more to come…

3. Frida Sundemo – Drawn To You

Sundemo had a quiet year but this lead track from a new EP was every bit as good as we’d hoped.

4. Urban Cone – Sadness Disease

Great, glistening pop from the only male act on our list.

5. Rebecca & Fiona – Candy Love

Rebecca & Fiona, who have promised much for a couple of years without really delivering, finally conjured up this killer single.

6. First Aid Kit – Cedar Lane

My Silver Lining may have been the lead single from the girls’ new album, Stay Gold, but this was a slow-burning beauty.

7. Taylor Swift – Shake It Off

Swedish producer Max Martin is the country's king of pop. And this was the jewel in his crown this year.

8. Mapei – Don’t Wait

Another great Swedish soul contender. Deep blue and tear-stained.

9. Eternal Death – Head

Their name may suggest they peddle earbleeding metal but this is as glacial, windswept and gorgeous as Lapland in March.

10. Zara Larsson – Rooftop

At 17, Larsson is a proper Swedish pop star. Can she make it globally? This corker suggests she can.