2012

I notice that the 'Best Of 2012' reviews have started appearing in this weekend's papers.  I always enjoy reading what others have been watching, reading and listening to, so I thought I'd compile my own list of my 20 favourite tracks of 2012.

You will notice that this list isn't comprised of just new music from 2012.  Reading the end of year lists of some of my internet chums makes me realise how out of touch with new music I am.  I was tempted to to add some obscure dubstep cut just to impress you all or a hit from One Direction to improve my image with the kids.  But I thought, sod it, I'll just record the 20 tracks, old and new, that I have enjoyed listening to most this year.

You will note that there are only two Pet Shop Boys tracks this year for reasons explained elsewhere.  There are also few old tracks and, in particular, a few from 2011.  This is primarily because I picked up a few choice items from other people's 'Best of 2011' lists and enjoyed them during the early part of 2012 (it is highly likely that a handful of Daddy or Chips's Top 50 of 2012 will appear in next year's list).

The tracks aren't in order of preference and you will also notice that there are 21 tracks listed.  Number 21 is a wonderful piece of classical music that I've returned to over and over again, so I thought I'd add it as a postscript to my main musical selection.

Each of the tracks is linked to either YouTube, Vimeo or Soundcloud if you click on them.  In addition, all of the tracks except one are available in a Spotify playlist.  The missing track, Randy Newman's I'm Dreaming, is available as a free download from his website.

I hope you enjoy my selection and, if you've compiled your own list, I'd love to see it.

1. Elton John vs Pnau – Good Morning To The Night
2. Jessie Ware – 110%
3. The 2 Bears – Bear Hug
4. Unknown Mortal Orchestra – Swim and Sleep (Like a Shark)
5. Iron And Wine – Godless Brother In Love
6. Jake Bugg – Country Song
7. Elton John – Tiny Dancer
8. Public Enemy – Harder Than You Think
9. MFSB – Love Is The Message
10. Pet Shop Boys – Winner
11. Joe Goddard – Gabriel (feat. Valentina)
12. Phantom Limb – The Pines
13. Yusuf Azak – Smile Tactics
14. Choir Of Young Believers – Hollow Talk
15. Holland-Dozier – Why Can’t We Be Lovers
16. Ornette – Crazy - Nôze Remix
17. Monkey Maffia – I Know You N.M.S
18. I’m Dreaming – Randy Newman
19. Big Big Train – Judas Unrepentant
20. Pet Shop Boys – The Way Through the Woods 
21. Andrew Davis – Vaughan Williams : Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis