Tonight’s episode was all about the top 14 and choreographer Mia Michaels. All 8 routines (that’s including the amazing opening group routine) were choreographed by Michaels. While I was scratching my head over how she could choreograph and teach all those pieces in such a short time span, I soon learned that each couple’s piece would be one that was already done in a previous season. As a long time fan, it was really cool to look back at Mia’s material again. Here’s what the episode brought music-wise:

Active Child, “Hanging On”
L.A. based artist Active Child (real name Pat Grossi) has a unique ambient/electronic sound. Ellie Goulding created a cover of “Hanging On” which (in my opinion) would have been good if Tinie Tempah wasn’t also on the track. Anyway, I loved the piece Michaels choreographed to this song.

Used in: Mia Michael’s opening top 14 group routine

Koop, “Koop Island Blues”
Just a word of warning that a NSFW video is below. Nothing crazy happens, I just don’t want any of you to be watching this at work and have your boss walk in while the girl in the video is writhing around in her underwear on your computer screen. Click here if you just want to listen to it. “Koop Island Blues” has a very moody, European feel to it. It makes me have a sudden urge to sip on some whiskey and smoke a cigarette, despite the fact that I don’t do either of those things.

Used in: Mia Michael’s contemporary routine with contestants Will and Amelia (previously used in season 6 with Evan and Randi)

Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, “Falling Slowly”
“Falling Slowly” is a lovely song that was written and performed by Hansard and Irglova for their movie Once. The movie is now a Broadway production that gathered up 8 of the 11 Tony Awards it was nominated for (including Best Musical). Hansard and Irglova have also collaborated as a duo called The Swell Season.

Used in: Amelia’s solo

That’s it for this week folks! Check back in next Wednesday after the episode airs!