2022 has been an excellent year for music, and finding the gems has been a year-long journey. Therefore, I thought I would share them, so maybe you might find your next jam. Now, as the album as a concept is becoming vaguer, here is what I am looking for.

1. The album will be released in 2022.

2. The whole album is enjoyable, from track 1 in order.

3. At least one banger.

Special | Lizzo

Well, I bang on about Lizzo a lot for all who know me. I love her sound and themes, and nothing can beat a bit of empowerment ✊🏾 and addictive beats 🥁

I cannot listen to this album without having a little dance, getting me pumped for a new day, and being a boss (in more ways than one)… and I have tickets booked for next year.

Funk, Disco, Hip hop, and Pop wrapped up in 35mins, purrrr bitch.

The Overload | Yard Act

Full of attitude and the music I wish I wrote. Unashamedly British is punky and melodic with great social commentary and jokes.

I saw them live in 2022 at the Wide Awake festival in Lambeth, and they did not disappoint. They have recently collaborated with Elton John, and all their EPs are worth a listen to.

A relistener for sure, and a great one for a walk.

Cheat Codes | Danger Mouse

It’s all about the groove in this one. This is what modern Hip Hop sounds like: robust flows, inspiring samples, and a steady flow to chill like a long soak in the bath.

Danger Mouse brings a mind-blowing list of collaborators, including the late, great MF Doom (in my opinion, the greatest rapper of all time).

This is one of those albums that sounds both old and young; different, yet pays homage; familiar and new.

Wet Leg | Wet Leg

Their self-titled debut is FRESH! So brand spanking new; nothing else like this was released this year. It has an out-the-bedroom vibe and almost feels like they finished the album and left the studio saying, “yeah, cool, whatever”.

I can’t get enough of how to the point their songs are and where every bass line and guitar is perfect when and where it’s played.

One to sing along to, but be mindful of the words coming out of your mouth.

The Car | Arctic Monkeys

I listened to this four times and thought it was ok, then on the fifth listen thought it was spectacular. The continued evolution of Arctic Monkeys leads to an almost movie-soundtrack-like sound.

Less of the grinding guitar riffs and power vocals of the past, and in with a melodically beautiful voice and instruments that are tranquil and sometimes a little eerie.

Give it a chance, and it’ll give you something back.

Cool it Down | Yeah Yeah Yeahs

This band never fails me, and here it delivers more than DHL. 8 tracks that get me going without fail and a good one for when you are sat on the tube.

This really feels like an album; from start to finish, it takes you on a ride that doesn’t stop being enjoyable.

Burning is my “Banger of the Year”, by the way.

Dirt Femme | Tove Lo

This is that pop, but not pop. It’s got exciting beats and vocals but is a bit dark and brooding. But it’s a right foot tapper, and nothing too much about it.

I like to put this on whilst working or having a think, but it works with some drinks as some tracks are ripe with some alcoholic beverages.

One for the back pocket to bust out when wondering what to put on.

What Came Before | Chase and Status

The first drop on this album will rip your fucking face off. More of the same from Chase and Status, but that is exactly what you need sometimes.

This is very much enjoyed at its fullest with a pro headphones/speaker setup.

Bass lines are unforgiving, and hooks that will make you rave in the kitchen.

NO THANK YOU | Little Simz

I had this post done and ready to publish. Then Little Simz, with no marketing or announcement, drops an album that is absolutely fire 🔥

This year’s Mercury Prize winner gets a lot off her chest and brings the tunes (chhhuuunnnnneeeeessss).

Well worth a listen from one of my favourite artists and someone to watch out for and check out last year’s album, Sometimes I Might Be Introvert.