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CHIRP DJ writesCHIRP Radio’s Best of 2022: Kevin Shields
Throughout December, CHIRP Radio presents its volunteers’ top albums of 2022. Our next list is from DJ-In-Training Kevin Shields.
Back Home by Big Joanie (Kill Rock Stars)
Been waiting for this for years, the sophomore follow up to 2018's equally brilliant Sistahs. No weak links on this year's model, I'll continue to enjoy Back Home immensely for a bit till I start yearning for the next one.
Back Catalogue by Sprints (Nice Swan)
A compilation comprising most of their recorded output thus far, including debut single "The Cheek' and 2022 EP 'A Modern Job'. The Dublin 4 piece fronted by force of nature Carla Chubb is never less than electrifying.
Cheat Codes by Danger Mouse & Black Thoughts (BMG)
This is good. Really good. 'Nuff said.
Versions Of Modern Performance by Horsegirl (Matador)
Horsegirl couldn't NOT make the list - hometown trio hittin' a home run on their first at-bat with noisy guitar-based rock, clever and catchy. Lee Ranaldo's name on the credits may have attracted some attention but one listen was enough to know Versions was the real deal.
Hugo by Loyle Carner (EMI)
Flawless flow, confessional lyrics, dense production, ten absolutely essential cuts on the 3rd album from British-Guyanese rapper Loyle Carner.
Wet Leg by Wet Leg (Domino)
I know, I know, and I don't care. The simple, undeniable pop perfection of Chaise Longue by itself warrants Wet Leg's inclusion on this and every other year-end list on the planet. And most of the rest of the album ain't bad either
The Overload by Yard Act (Zen FC / Island)
Sure, the Sprechgesang Tipping Point is upon us, Yard Act's James Smith is just completely endearing. And the band is tight as heck.
Talk Talk Talk by The Paranoyds (Third Man)
I liked the Paranoyds previous LP Carnage Bargain A LOT, and after catching the tail end of their show at Shubas in support of Talk Talk Talk, it's now love.
The Official Bog Set by Bog Shed (Melodic)
Nothing new here - the 57 tracks on this posthumous 5 CD box set includes the West Yorkshire quartet's entire official catalog - 1 EP, 2 LPs, singles & b-sides, John Peel sessions, a live disc, and whatever else was captured during their mid-'80s life span. Their angsty, angular, bass-driven post-punk sounds fresh and modern
(Tie) The Voltarol Years by Half Man Half Biscuit (RM Qualtrough)
(Tie) The Last Laugh by The Nightingales (Tiny Global Productions)
Probably more suited to Lifetime Achievement Awards than 2022 Album of the Year . Two British bands with Thatcher-era origins and enigmatic frontmen in Nigel Blackwell and Robert Lloyd. And still making great records.
Next entry: Patti Smith’s “A Book of Days” as 366 Testaments to Gratitude
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