Influential Music of 2019

Here are a few of my favourite albums from 2019.

Why not give them a try?

Sound of the Sirens

This Time

A major talent, fully deserving of greater exposure. Highly original songs, powerfully delivered.

Jah Wobble and The Invaders of the Heart
Ocean Blue Waves

Jah and The Invaders are easily one of the best groups around. They are on a productive high and every album sounds very different. Nobody works harder on the stage and they are touring almost constantly.

Stray Cats
40

The return of Stray Cats came as a big surprise. '40' celebrates the number of years they have been together and the new songs formed the backbone of their triumphant reunion tour.

Joan as Police Woman
Joanthology

A fabulous collection from a wonderful artist. New song 'What a World' is just one extraordinary highlight from the three discs of wonderful and thought-provoking songs.

Bananarama
In Stereo

Said to be already in the can when Bananarama briefly became a trio again, this upbeat dance album sees the duo on top form. Definitely one to catch 'live', if you can.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor
The Song Diaries

Greatest hits with an orchestral backing! The 2019 tour was wonderful and the new arrangements add extra dimensions to the classic songs.

Dawn Landes

My Tiny Twilight

A six-song, all-killer EP from a very talented singer/songwriter. Hopefully the exposure gained supporting Nick Lowe on tour this year will raise UK awareness to Dawn's work.

Patty Griffin

There is always room in the world for more Patty Griffin albums. This year's self-titled offering was her first after  period of illness and it was so good to see her touring again this year.

Rachel Harrington
Hush the Wild Horses

Rachel's return to writing and touring was doing overdue. This set of songs, showcased at the  Summertyne Americana Festival, reminds us of what we have been missing. Don't vanish again, Rachel.

Eilen Jewell

Gypsy

I love Eilen's music and Gypsy is a very strong album. The short Winter tour of the UK gave me the opportunity to see Eilen and her excellent band once more, on what was certainly one of the best evenings of the year.

Real Life

Emeli Sande

My final recommendation ties in with my last gig of the year. Real Life offers a selection of songs which should resonate deeply with most listeners.

What musical treats will 2020 bring, I wonder...?