MY TOP 12 ALBUMS OF THE YEAR BY MUSIC

PETER GABRIEL I/O

Twelve songs to make you feel fully alive. If you’re tempted to give someone the Rolling Stones’ new album, please buy this instead. It’s just as much fun and far more original.

BLUR THE BALLAD OF DARREN

Damon Albarn, right with Graham Coxon, continues on his mission to knock the Gallagher brothers into a cocked hat. This year he released a rewarding album with Gorillaz and an outstanding one with Blur, full of jaded beauty.

BOYGENIUS THE RECORD

Surely the first supergroup to begin as a book group. Phoebe Bridgers joins Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker to form a folk-rock band with a hotline to the hearts of a generation.

EVERYTHING BUT THE GIRL FUSE

Those whom pop hath joined together, let no man put asunder. Tracey Thorn and her husband Ben Watt renew their artistic vows after a 23-year break.

NATALIE MERCHANT KEEP YOUR COURAGE

The most satisfying pop tends to be of mixed heritage. Merchant marries folk and gospel, mixing intimacy with grandeur.

MICK HARVEY & AMANDA ACEVEDO PHANTASMAGORIA IN BLUE

An Aussie and a Mexican walk into a studio, sing very softly and create some subtle drama.

THE ANCHORESS VERSIONS

Catherine Anne Davies, who won many fans with The Art Of Losing, reimagines some of her favourite songs and makes them her own.

PAUL SIMON SEVEN PSALMS

A single piece of music, half an hour long, inspired by a dream about the Old Testament? Only a genius could make it work.

TIM DE LISLE

THEA GILMORE THEA GILMORE

Her 20th album is one of her best. It’s got hooks, grooves, guts and brains.

SARAH BROWN SARAH BROWN SINGS MAHALIA JACKSON

For Christmas, give yourself the gift of gospel. Simple Minds’ backing singer takes some old chestnuts (Summertime, Amazing Grace) and forges something fresh and fearless.

FOO FIGHTERS BUT HERE WE ARE

Dave Grohl deals with the death of his drummer Taylor Hawkins last year by making a most uplifting racket.

THE LILAC TIME DANCE TILL ALL THE STARS COME DOWN

A country twang with an English twist, exuding wry wisdom and sympathy for the underdog.