Now for the pointy end of my 2022 top ten album list. Again, I will preface that this is a wholly subjective list, though if pushed I will go into bat for it as a definitive best albums of the year list. Whether you agree with me, disagree, or are a bit nonplussed by the whole palaver. I still hope you can glean some entertainment from my ten picks, or perhaps more importantly, give an album you’d never heard of a bit of a spin.

5. Skinty Fia by Fontaines D.C. (Partisan Records)

Standout Track: “I Love You”

Experimenting with a heavier overall sound, Skinty Fia is a grungier and more aggressive outing for Dublin’s indie darlings Fontaines D.C. As they continue to evolve and explore different sounds, they also move on lyrically from their earlier work. A lot of these lyrics reflect being away from Ireland and dealing with that as a band who have fed so much off of their surroundings and Irish experiences. Another interesting feature, is that this is the first album that Fontaines D.C have used the Irish language in their lyrics. The recording is notably rich and crisp, they’ve nailed a full sound that juxtaposes the often downbeat lyrics.

4. Ali by Vieux Farka Touré & Khruangbin (Dead Oceans)

Standout Track: “Tamalla”

The first collaborative work between Vieux Farka Touré and Khruangbin plays as a tribute to Farka Touré’s father, Ali. Ali was the biggest export of Malian blues guitar, and his son Vieux has since picked up the mantle. The album is rammed full of intricately crafted rhythms and rich textures. It’s another standout release from Khruangbin who are now getting more adventurous and confident in their collaborations, and who they choose to collaborate with. Their second ep with Leon Bridges, ‘Texas Moon’ was also released in 2022 and is well worth a listen too. Perfect for both background and a more focussed listen, Ali is a bluesy gem.

3. Inside Out by Tourist (Monday Records)

Standout Track: “Lark”

It will be unsurprising to those of you who read my glowing review of ‘Inside Out’ earlier this year that it is high up on my end of year album list. I was also lucky enough to catch Tourist at his hometown show in November, which only solidified my love for this album. It was an amazing gig, with a setlist that sampled this album heavily. It’s a gorgeous soundscape which I never get tired of putting on, and I’m looking forward to giving it a few more spins on my travels in early 2023.

2. Cheat Codes by Danger Mouse & Black Thought (BMG Rights Management)

Standout Track: “Belize (feat. MF DOOM)

Biting verses teamed with rich samples and warm production, need I say more. A jazz-rap record that feels reminiscent of the Stones Throw releases from the early to mid-2000s. Featuring guest spots from A$AP Rocky, Joey Bada$$, Raekwon, plus a posthumous verse from MF DOOM which was dug up from the offcuts of 2005’s the ‘Mouse and the Mask’. Black Thought’s flow pairs beautifully with Danger Mouse’s inspired sample selection. Not one to shy away from political issues, Black Thought’s commentary on current issues and particularly the plight of the Black person in America, is poignant and cerebral.

1.The Car by Arctic Monkeys (Domino Recording Company)

Standout Track: “Perfect Sense”

For anyone who knows me, this album in the number one spot comes as no surprise whatsoever. The Car is another step in the Arctic Monkeys’ continued evolution, and at this point in time we’re treated to 70’s crooning. The album also has a strong sense of identity with the car as the central theme. The whole album feels like one big detour, never like the final destination. Instead, we get an unmarked path full of intrigue. It’s not big or bombastic, but hazy and teeters on the edge of making a bold statement. The sound is mature, and often bursting at the seams with the helping hand of an orchestra. The Car continues to stoke my excitement for the Arctic Monkeys, because you never know what you’ll get next.