My Best Of ‘Awards' for 2020 AND of All-Time!
(9 minute read)
2020. Wow! What a year. It has been one unlike any other we have ever experienced (nor ever will). For some, it’s been one of the worst years of their existence, for others the best. There was no middle ground. For me, it was a year of two very different, opposing halves that no matter which way I sliced it, by year’s end, 2020 turned into one of the most remarkable and life changing years of my life.
While many incessantly complained ad nauseum about Covid and couldn’t wait for things to go back to “normal” (whatever normal will be after this), others took the chance to use this unparalleled extended break to hit reset on their lives, discovering or rediscovering their passions, hobbies and other interests. Things like home cooking, gardening, exercising, writing, painting, interacting with their kids in new ways, hit new heights. Sure, we all couldn't do some of the things we love and enjoy, namely seeing friends and family, but humans found ways to overcome adversity and through technology, interactions became richer, more rewarding, because at the end of the day that was all many of us had left.
It was a great chance for those who took it, to reflect upon what was important and what really mattered, and thereby give more time to it, and for anything that no longer was, either devote much less time to or better yet, let it go. So while all some did was constantly complain, whinge, bitch and moan, the rest of us simply got on with it and made the most of what was an unparalleled year.
If you ignored the mainstream media’s fear mongering and government insistence we faced a “deadly” manmade virus, then in my eyes, 2020 was a great year. No two ways about it. To me, the Coronavirus has been the gift that keeps on giving.
But enough posturing and rambling, let me get into the reason you’re all here – my Best Of Awards!
This year I thought I’d do something different, just to keep in step with the unusual year that was, and not only give my ‘best of awards’ for 2020, but my Best Ofs of ALL TIME!
Why? Three reasons:
With most things shutdown, in extended lockdowns or worse, closed for good, my usual go to refuges, movie cinemas and secondhand book stores, meant I was unable to see any films or grab more books, so I dropped both from my 2020 Awards list but to make up the difference, I thought it’d be fun to list my all time favourite albums, songs, books and films instead.
This is the last time I compile a year’s ‘best of’ list again (it’s really time consuming). Time to move on and use my time in better, more productive ways.
I want to go out with a bang!
But let us not cry or commiserate, because this shapes as the best thing you’ll have read, watched and listened to in weeks – guaranteed! First, let’s concentrate on the music that poured out in 2020 before we do a deep dive into my fave books, films and music (singles & albums).
Music Of 2020. Just Remarkable!
While it felt like much of the world was in panic mode in one form or another, music forged on. And holy fuck it do so – unabashed, unapologetic, and unafraid to give voice when almost everyone else was masked up and muzzled like dogs, living in fear of some mass global hysteria and “pandemic” that at the end of the day has over a 99% recovery rate. Ninety nine fucking percent! Crazy.
While governments the world over were caught flat footed, and honestly, looked like the incompetent buffoons we all know they are, musicians kept the heartbeat of the world pumping strong.
I ended up buying 144 songs, at an average of 12 singles a month or almost a new single every two and a half days – a new PB (personal best) for me in the advent of the digital age. No matter where I was – whether I was traversing several countries across three continents, with numerous states and provinces passed in the process as I made my way back to Australia, or if I was at home (like the rest of you), music was always there.
Music stood up when almost all of the rest of the entertainment industry fell over, closed up shop, or simply stayed silent.
Yeah, music rocked, rolled and rollicked its way into our hearts, tore holes in our souls, or quite simply made us feel good among all the faux doom & gloom being expressed elsewhere.
So this year, being the weird, wild, wonderful and unpredictable year it has been, it’s time to go grab yourself a cuppa or tipple of your choosing, warm up some popcorn, unwrap those chocky bars, and get comfy friends, because this promises to be a fun ride into all things that entertain, shake or move me.
LET’S BOOGIE!
MUSIC 2020
What better place to start than with the plethora of amazing music that was released during 2020 – and there was just so much of it. I’ve a couple of great resources I turn to and trust to hear new music – including my fave three hours of radio – and they didn’t let me down. But I also found one new place that allowed me to discover a few more tunes. Since I started buying my music online via iTunes way back in 2010, in no one year have I bought more music singles than I did in 2020. 136 songs, with that number almost doubling my previous best record haul of singles. But let’s start my 2020 music Awards with album of the year.
While I don’t buy as many albums as I once did (in a past life, taking home 30+ a month), when I hear an artist or song I like, then a second track drops by that same musician, I scope out their album. When there’s a couple more noteworthy tracks, I buy those. And when three quarters or more of the record is really good, I nab it! This year I only bought a tiny handful of albums but one stood out above all the rest. Drum roll…
BEST ALBUM for 2020
Beneath The Bones by Kail Baxley
Kail Baxley’s album was a rip roaring, rollicking release that’s part blues, part dirty rock, a little soul and with some gospel mixed in, but lots of fun. It’s an album that is the real deal. The two key songs I loved the most, ‘Feelin’ About You’ and ‘In A Woman’s Eyes’, both which are so musically different from one another, while ‘Born In The Flood’ is also another great track and different again. And that’s what I loved most about this album – never predictable.
HONOURABLE MENTION
Untitled (Black Is) by Sault
Sault delivered not one but two albums this year – an amazing feat in a Covid year – and both inspired and provoked. But it was ‘Untitled (Black Is)’ which was the best. From opening song ‘Out The Lies’ I was instantly hooked, through ‘Stop Dem’, ‘Hard Life’ and ‘Wildfires’, this was all about strong lyrics in great, yet subtle songs. Powerful!
BEST SINGLES for 2020
Brasil by EOB
This single had everything and more. It’s everything a phenomenal song should be. Once I heard it I was instantly hooked and on repeated listens became more and more engrossed. Ed O’Brien, of Radiohead fame, delivered what remained my fave song all year. Every time I heard it, I discovered something new. A mesmerising, ethereal song that seems part club, part film soundtrack, part concept music yet was so so much more. The best 8 minutes of music in 2020 hands down!Don’t Let Me Disappear by Ben Harper
No song epitomised 2020 more than Ben Harper’s evocative, beautiful and poignant, Don’t Let Me Disappear. This touching tune felt like an ode to many of those that were worried about dying of a virus no one knew nothing about, or worse, of being isolated and forgotten about. Touching as it is haunting and impossible not to be moved by. Exquisite.Talk Deep by E^st
I loved this the first time a sweet, music loving friend sent it to me, and many months later, I still love it. It also took on greater meaning as the year progressed and all we were left with were time and deep conversations. Such a great, upbeat vibe, sentiment, and just oh so fun.The Wall & I by Nation of Language
This throwback to ‘80s electro-synth rock reminded me of bygone era when music was way less manufactured, had broader appeal, and just came with more soul and depth, yet it also felt so now. I couldn’t get enough of this track and every time I heard it, the volume always went up… way up!Lover by G Flip
Such a powerful, evocative song from an Aussie songstress that tears through your soul. I felt every lyric and more. This Melbourne based lady delivered not only a great song but followed it up with an equally strong record. Seek her out, you’ll be glad you did.Chinatown by Bleachers (feat Bruce Springsteen)
One of the very last tunes I heard for 2020 that won me over instantly. The more I listened, the more I liked it. The more I liked it, the more loved it and the greater it became. I had a tough time leaving this out of my Top 5, but the fact it beat out so many strong other contenders directly below it in my Top 10, to hit the #6 slot, speaks volumes for the sheer delight that this song is. And with ‘The Boss’ providing backup vocals, you couldn’t go wrong. Mark my words, this track will make its way into a future film for sure, that’s how good it is.
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeYou So Done by Noga Erez
Arguably the coolest, most imaginative track on my 2020 best of list, this female Israeli musician packs a serious punch. This is a song that defies genres yet is deeply rooted in electronica, albeit with some heavy, beat laden ingenuity. Impossible to forget this track. Make sure to check out the equally genre defying video, which is both violent yet intelligent in its choreography and design. Mesmerising.The Difference by Flume (feat Toro y Moi)
Heard this kickarse track in the early part of 2020 and it never went away, because it just got better and better with each listen. Another electro dance single that packed plenty of clout courtesy of some fine vocals and lyrics. Dig it!Fade Into You by Perfume Genius
There were so many amazing covers in 2020, I could almost create a Top 10 list based on them alone but this haunting rendition of Mazzy Star’s Fade Into You (a song I thought uncoverable), was sheer brilliance. Perfume Genius, who won me over with the more rocking Describe earlier in the year, just absolutely floored me with this. I had this on repeat for weeks. Take a listen, see why, and be wowed like I was.
* This song is only available on Amazon Original MusicFeelin’ About You by KaiL Baxley
Not only did Mr. Kail Baxley snare he coveted best album of the year for me, but this rocking, dirty blues number just spoke to me. It’s raucous, it’s ambitious, and it’s a helluva lot of fun. So cool.Wherever You Go by The Avalanches
Oh The Avalanches. This Australian eclectic outfit without a shadow of a doubt, pumped out the boldest, most diverse song of 2020. Wherever You Go just does so much in the 5:51 mins it burns through. It’s genre defying and defies logic, but somehow they pull it all off and come out the other side with an epic, truly unforgettable track. This amazing, hugely talented act, did whatever they wanted in 2020, delivering killer tune after killer tune. Seek them out, you won’t be disappointed!
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeStop This Flame by Celeste
Those powerful, strong lungs of Celeste conjure up so many images of beauty and defiance. This soul sister knows how to sing, while at the same time throttles you around the throat and boxes you around the ears. This great track only fell out of the top 10 late in 2020 but that doesn’t make it any less great. I love this song and cannot get enough of that incredible voice of hers. Great song! One woman to keep an eye (and ear) on for sure.
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeHeart Attack by Bronson
Probably the simplest song in my Top 20 with that repetitive beat and repeated lyrics, but I just couldn’t get enough of it. I loved the lyrics and sentiment behind them (“I don't wanna be your friend, I want a little bit of lightning. Why does it matter if it ends? I don't wanna live in silence.”). Don the headphones, crank up the volume, and feel that bass.
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeThat Bitch by Bea Miller
2020 was the year female musicians the world over seemed to speak their minds, and I for one fucking loved it! Nothing summed up that bold, necessary badass attitude more than Bea Miller’s That Bitch. Her words resonated and showed up her male counterparts (and men in general) and the double standards society imposes. It’s rude, it’s crude, but it’s smart and edgy – everything you want in a song. And in a year when every man & his dog had an opinion, these lyrics rung true, “And everyone wants to hear a strong opinion when it’s the same as yours.” Amen sister!
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeBroadcasting Low Wave by Robbie Bennett
What was it about 2020 when the lesser known members of huge bands, finally stepped out from behind the shadows, entered their home recording studios, and produced some of the most phenomenal music of the year? First Ed O’Brien of Radiohead (see my #1), and then Robbie Bennet of The War On Drugs. And both men delivered epic, ethereal tracks that soared to incredible heights. Broadcasting Low Wave, was a meandering, irresistible tune that at a whopping 10:20 mins long, never wore out its welcome once, instead, swept you up in its exquisite beauty.
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeLove And Hate In A Different Time by Gabriels
Gabriels is an L.A based, music producing trio, who knocked out a few songs over the course of the year, but none finer than this gospel infused, lilting single. Expect to hear more from this act who really know how to put together some mighty fine music.
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeI Know by Khushi
Something about this sumptuous slow song by Khushi, spoke deep to my soul. From the haunting piano keys and accompanying stirring music, through to the delicate vocals, this track was so lush yet expressed a certain vulnerability. If I had only one quibble, it’s that it is too short. I never wanted it to end. Exquisite.
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeLose My Way by Ane Brun & Dustin O’Halloran
Like the song above, this emotive, expressive, and sensitive tune, really tugs at your heartstrings. It has power in its beauty and delicateness, it’s impossible not to feel a stirring deep down in your soul. Sorrowful music at its finest, no question. Simply sumptuous.
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeThe Turning Of Our Bones by Arab Strap
Here’s a track that delivered arguably the best lines of any song I listened to from 2020. “It’s been seven years, it’s showing around the eyes. Another seven years of lethargy & lies,” all sung in a thick Scottish accent. But that’s not all it had going for it. With a powerful, Underworld meets Nine Inch Nails-esque beat and feel to it, this song was fucking awesome from go to whoa!
iTunes / Spotify / YoutubeParaíso by Monogem
Impossible not to fall in love with this sweet, Spanish sung song, which you think is going one way but then 23 seconds in, drops a big beat behind it and pummels you senseless. I loved this tune and always found myself bopping my head in time to the badass bass and singing along to the chorus. Paraíso (paradise) wrapped up inside an infectious pop song.JUST MISSED THE CUT
With so many amazing & fantastic songs pouring out onto the airwaves and into my awaiting ears, it was always going to be tough to cull 136 songs down into just 20. So here’s two that missed out by a bee’s dick from making their way into my Top 20.
21. Therefore I Am by Billie Eilish
She had last year’s #1 song with Bad Guy, and while she was a little more quieter in 2020, Therefore I Am proved she’s a force to be reckoned with. I had an impossible time leaving this one out but something had to give. Despite missing out, this song is every bit as good as those above it. Feast your ears around this, you’ll be glad you did. Kickarse track with serious female attitude. What’s not to love?22. Interstellar Love Song by The Avalanches
It felt like Aussie act The Avalanches, were everywhere in 2020. With so many great musicians lending their vocals to this Melbourne based outfit’s eclectic, fun tracks throughout the year, The Avalanches just know how to conjure up music magic. Another infectious winner of a song that heavily samples the Alan Parsons Project’s Eye In The Sky, and does so with aplomb and panache, completely reinventing the song and making it their own.
2020 PLAYLISTIf those 20 (+2) songs whet your appetite, then you’ll dig the remaining songs that rocked my world throughout 2020. You will not hear a cooler, more eclectic, kickarse bunch of songs than my 2020 playlist. With the first 20 songs ranked in order from number 1-20, followed by the other 116 songs that wowed me in 2020, all in the order I came to discover them throughout the year. Seriously, all killer no filler!
Listen to the full list here via my 2020 playlist
* To view my All-Time, absolute favourite music ever (Albums & Singles), scroll past my best books & films below.
BEST FILMS OF ALL TIME!
How do you whittle down a list of literally thousands of films to a Top 10 of All Time? It seems like mission impossible, but everyone has their favourites – those films which have stuck around forever or that we’ve never forgotten for one reason or another. Well, here’s my list of movies that have resonated with me over the course of 40+ years of being an avid film fan. It’s an eclectic mix of movies, from big, Hollywood blockbuster action films, to sci-fi space opera, through foreign films, a romance and documentary. Movies have always made me marvel for many reasons, from the size of the screen, to the epic sound, moving storytelling and more. Viva la cinema!
STAR WARS
Star Wars single handedly kickstarted my love of film, adventure, and great storytelling. It was the very first movie I ever saw, and at age 6, this was everything any impressionable boy full of adventure and wonder could ever want. I remember the long defunct cinema my dad took me to see it in. I remember the toys (long before they became collectors’ items). I remember a wide-eyed kid being awed. And I remember as an adult some 40 years later, I am still in awe of this film.CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON
Quite simply the most beautiful film I think I’ve seen. This was something to behold, from the heartfelt story to the exquisite fight choreography – a ballet of martial arts – through to the expansive Chinese landscape and sumptuous costumes, to so much more.THE MATRIX
Easily the coolest, most ambitious film in my Top 10, The Matrix blew my mind with its ambitious and bold filmmaking techniques. A film now 21 years old that’s still as edgy and amazing as it was when I first saw it.THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW
The most bizarre, wildest and raunchy film of anything I’ve ever seen. Tim Curry’s performance as Frankenfurter is one the finest acting performances you’ll ever see. This movie also had a kicking soundtrack and was just so much fucking fun. It’s easy to see why this has become more than just a cult classic and is a phenomenon.HUGO (3D Version only)
Oh what a joy this was to see it on a big cinema screen in 3D. Easily the greatest 3D film I’ve ever had the pleasure of watching. And the story – the beautiful ode to early filmmaking – is just divine.WORLD WAR Z
A movie that just gets better and better every time I watch it. The tension in this never lets up – it quite literally strangles you until you can’t breathe. And that third act just leaves me awestruck. When almost every other Hollywood blockbuster film goes big, this film went the other way. As a writer, I can’t explain how incredible, bold (and refreshing) that is. Just phenomenal.BRAVEHEART
I first saw this film in Scotland, and while I am not Scottish, after seeing it you felt like you were. Mel Gibson delivered an epic tale that made you feel everything, even throwing in an early twist that I am still in awe of, and showcasing the wondrous Scottish landscape. This movie moved me to tears.THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES
’Before he changed the world, the world changed him’ reads the fantastic tagline to this glorious road trip film of an early Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara. It takes in the majestic South America, a continent I have long been in love with, especially after doing my own epic 9 month road trip there 11 years ago. But the best thing, we feel (and see) the change Che goes through as he meets some truly remarkable, ordinary, everyday people and how it changes him and the course of his life as a result. Such a magical film.SENNA
The only documentary on my list but one that feels every bit like the 3-act movie structure of cinema. I grew up idolising Brazilian ace Ayrton Senna, following his exploits and heroics, back when Formula One motor racing was all about driver skill, and no one driver epitomised this better than Senna. He was the best, and continues to be rated as such long after his death. Seeing this doco at a film festival, and knowing what was coming, still didn’t stop a full house of grown men be reduced to tears (myself included). Powerful.THE NOTEBOOK
Call me a hopeless romantic or a big softie but I love a great romance… well told. This is one hell of a beautifully well made romantic drama that tugs at your heartstrings. This movie really does a number on you (in a good way). I’ve never tired of the appeal, charm, and moving way it does so, from the fabulous old couple to the young lovers. Just fantastic.
JUST OUTSIDE THE TOP 10:
The Life Of Brian, Avatar, Sicario, The Breakfast Club, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory.
BEST BOOKS OF ALL TIME!
I’ve been reading books (or had them read to me), ever since I was little. Like film, books have always captured my imagination albeit in a very different way. The way they can make you disappear into another world, all within your imagination, has always intrigued me – it’s probably why I became a writer in the first place. I love the power and beauty of words, the way they can transport us, make us think, laugh, cry, cheer and more. I wouldn't know how many books I’ve read over the course of my lifetime, but all I know is it’s a lot. And of that lot, the books below spoke to me more than most in very different ways, whether it was a wild, sprawling and epic adventure or a touching kid’s book written with adults in my mind. And that’s the great thing about novels and writing – each leaves an indelible impression on your mind and in your heart.
FICTION
SHANTARAM by Gregory David-Roberts
What more can you say about this quintessential novel that hasn’t already been said? Hailed as a masterpiece (and it truly is), this epic, phenomenal tome, conjures up a story of grandiose adventures, danger and love, and all done so with sheer beauty, elegance and mastery. No other book has ever transported me into the magic of the written word more than Shantaram. Every single person I have ever recommended this to, is left in awe. And from the novel’s opening line: “It took me a long time and most of the world to learn what I know about love and fate and the choices we make, but the heart of it came to me in an instant, while I was chained to a wall and being tortured,” to its finale, you will be enchanted and riveted, too.
Amazon / BookshopOH THE PLACES YOU’LL GO by Dr. Seuss
Sure, it’s a kid’s book and was the very last book the late, great Dr. Seuss ever wrote, but it’s mostly aimed at adults who have either left their inner child behind and simply forgotten what it means to live, or us kids (big & small), that no matter the ups & downs life throws at us, we continue to dust ourselves off and still embrace and marvel at the wonders of the world and of living. At only 10 minutes long, this is one story you have no excuse not to read, so sit down, take the time to read it, and rediscover what it means to really be alive and live life.
Amazon / BookshopREADY PLAYER ONE by Ernie Cline
Now here was a book that was as clever as it was fun with all the nostalgic (mostly) ‘80s pop culture references. Described as Willy Wonka meets the Matrix, this was only going to be one thing – fun, fun, fun! For a kid that grew up in the eighties, this was like taking a trip down memory lane and reliving some of the better parts of my youth. Devoured this thing in something like three days, and being that it read/played very much like a classic video game, you really felt like player one as you made your way through the book uncovering hidden gems, easter eggs, all while discovering a whole new fantasy world of fiction. Something of a cult phenomenon, ‘Ready Player One’ is best enjoyed by those who grew up in the ‘80s and very familiar with all the references and sly nods (but not essential).
Amazon / BookshopTHE TIME TRAVELLER’S WIFE by Audrey Niffenegger
This beautiful book and story was recommended to me by a former girlfriend at the time, and boy am I glad she did. I truly loved this one and loved the clever take on both time travel and romance. The two genres played so well off each other but never overstayed their welcome, though it mostly plays and explores a love through time. With a great hook and captivating story, this is an enchanting read.
Amazon / BookshopFRACTION OF THE WHOLE by Steve Toltz
One of the funniest and original books I’ve read. This hilarious yarn, written by Aussie Steve Toltz, was shortlisted for the ManBooker the year it came out and with bloody good reason. As clever, well written and great, amusing and hilarious as it is (and it really is very funny), ‘Fraction Of The Whole’ is one seriously enjoyable, laugh out loud romp through some 500 pages.
Amazon / BookshopLORD OF THE RINGS by J.R.R. Tolkien
What ‘best of’ list would be complete with J.R.R Tolkien’s classic, epic tome of a story, ‘The Lord Of The Rings’? I first read this some time in my teens, and it always stuck with me the sheer scope and undertaking Tolkien took to put together this masterful display of the written language. Many years later (and two or three decades older), as a writer, I have a whole new found respect for the man who conjured up the story’s own elfin language and more. Phenomenal!
Amazon / BookshopLIFE OF PI by Yann Martel
When I first read this book, I remember being a little bored by the first part of the story, which seemed to drag on. But once it hit that second, more adventurous part, wow, what an incredible read. I was so engrossed in this tale that the slow start was all but forgotten by book’s end. Part adventure, part fantasy, Yann Martel weaved his magic and won me over in the best way possible by making me fall in love all over again with the mind’s imagination and grandiose tales.
Amazon / BookshopGONE GIRL by Gillian Flynn
This book captivated me like no other. The way this fast paced thriller, with its biting dialogue, dark wit and razor sharp writing, made me both envious, and also fall in love with another writer. Gillian Flynn knocked this story out of the park with a compelling tale of treachery, deviousness, and things that aren’t all they seem. I churned through this thing in less than five days! It was so good it crashed my Top 10.
Amazon / BookshopTHE BEACH by Alex Garland
For an avid world traveller and backpacker like myself, this was the consummate companion to wile away the time when I lazed around overseas in my twenties. It conjured up the perfect idyllic landscape – a tropical island hidden from all tourists and only revealed to a scant few traveller – that seemed like the ultimate utopia. How quickly the dreamy setting turned into a hellish nightmare. A modern day ‘Lord Of The Flies’ for adults if you like, though that doesn’t do it justice. This was very much the adventure novel I wanted it to be and more. Now a contemporary classic, Garland’s ‘The Beach’ is as energetic and riveting as it was when it first came out.
Amazon / BookshopDAISY JONES & THE SIX by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I read this book in a day. A single fucking day. That’s how much I loved this book. So captivating. So rock’n’roll. Soooo good! It’s the newest entrant into my esteemed Top 10 list for very good reason. For this music mad nut, this book, with its sly wink to an to the late ‘70s era and my fave band (Fleetwood Mac), retelling the discord and friction behind an album they recorded (rated one of the greatest of all time) and reimagining that tale, was told was just electrifying! A ballsy, brash, instant classic.
Amazon / Bookshop
JUST OUTSIDE THE TOP 10:
The Kite Runner (Khalil Hoseini), The Iron Giant (Ted Hughes), The Milk Drinker (The Phantom, Lee Falk), The Road (Cormac McCarthy), The Da Vinci Code (Dan Brown).
BEST ALBUMS OF ALL TIME!
Music. If I had to choose between books, film and music as my favourite medium to enjoy, it’s music all the way. It’s always been my first love, with some my earliest, most formative memories having music in there somewhere. It’s usually always on during the day, from the time I get up until I’m ready for dreamland. It’s on in the background as I read. It’s on when I am writing. It’s on in the car. And it’s on in every way, be it via radio, online, iPod, or through my headphones (where music is best listened). I remember great books, but not when I read them. I remember great films, but not always the exact year or moment it came out. But with music, I remember exactly where I was, a specific moment, a friend, loved one or random night, whatever it is, music has always been there for me. So each of the phenomenal albums and singles below represents a significant period in my life or marks a point in time I remember fondly. It’s almost impossible to reduce a long, l-o-n-g list of contenders down to just 10, but like any list, there are always certain go-to-faves and special releases that have always stood out. These are mine!
THE JOSHUA TREE by U2
No other album has stood the test of time for me, than U2’s phenomenal record ‘The Joshua Tree’. From that incredible opening in Where The Streets Have No Name right through to the very last song, the haunting Mothers Of The Disappeared, has an album mesmerised me on so many levels. I was just a teen when this classic album dropped some 30 years ago, and years later, it has never been beaten. With such memorable and extraordinary tunes such as With Or Without You, Running To Standstill, One Tree Hill and Exit, I am still in awe of this album. I was fortunate enough to catch their special 30th anniversary concert of this record and in the three decades that have passed since its release, it has lost none of its beauty, power, and captivating energy. No other word describes this release better than phenomenal, because it is!1 GIANT LEAP by Various Artists
When I first heard this beautiful album back in 2002, I was immediately blown away. UK producers Jamie Catto (Faithless) and Duncan Bridgeman, travelled around the globe to record all kinds of immense multi-layered music from a swathe of diverse artists, all from different cultures, countries and backgrounds, and the end result – utterly astounding! This is a world music extravaganza with a commercial bent and needless to say, I fell in love. With several well known singers – Michael Stipe (R.E.M), Robbie Williams, Maxi Jazz (Faithless), Neneh Cherry, Speech (Arrested Development) etc – lending their voices to the vast array of high quality, world music tunes, this was an album of sheer delight. 18 years on and this is still a regular go to fave of mine. Stunning music in every sense. Superb!GRACE by Jeff Buckley
If there’s been a stronger, greater debut record I’m yet to hear it. Jeff Buckley’s ‘Grace’ is the consummate release. It’s an album choc full of heart & soul and was an audacious debut filled with sweeping choruses, bombastic arrangements, piercing lyrics, and above all, Buckley’s richly textured, beautiful and angelic voice. It traverses rock, folk, lounge and so much more. With killer tunes such as the haunting Last Goodbye, through the powerful song of So Real, the exquisite Leonard Cohen cover, Hallelujah, to the aching Lover, You Should’ve Come Over, this record is sublime. While his unfortunate early death left a massive void in music made with heart & soul – and the promise of what may have come – ‘Grace’ has become both timeless and exalted in the years since.THE WILL TO LIVE by Ben Harper
From the opening, hypnotic guitar riff and vibrant drums of Faded, American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Ben Harper announced his arrival. The third album of his career, ‘The Will To Live’ elevated Harper beyond fringe musician and cult status, and into the ears and minds of so many. Using all his craftsmanship, he plays an eclectic mix of blues, folk, soul, reggae, and rock music, that take this record into the upper echelons of something special. There isn’t a single song, note or lyric wasted here. With so many magnificent tunes to choose from, highlights include the aforementioned Faded, the beautiful Roses From My Friends, the album’s raucous namesake The Will To Live, to the delicate fragility of Widow Of A Living Man, and my personal fave, Glory And Consequence, that is as memorable as it is glorious. Harper remains my favourite male solo artist and this record captures everything great about all that he is and does.RUMOURS
I’ll go on record here and happily admit that Fleetwood Mac are my all time favourite band in the history of ever. Once considered the music of our parents’ generation, The Mac would go on to win a place in the hearts and minds of their kids, who came to respect the subtleties and complexities of such a remarkable act and album. This all time classic, voted one of the greatest albums of all time, stamped their music immortality. In a dominant period of ‘70s music which still included Elvis, The Beatles, The Stones, Pink Floyd, Elton John etc, Fleetwood Mac rose above them all, commanding respect and delivering sheer music perfection. 40 years on and ‘Rumours’ just gets better and better with age. No other band sounded like them, nor ever has, and while uniqueness only goes so far, it’s their musical pop-rock capabilities and the soft rock sensibilities that administered such memorable harmonies, accented rhythms, and more – they had three vocalists – which makes ‘Rumours’ truly a lightning in a bottle moment. Pick any song: Second Hand News, Dreams, Don’t Stop, Go Your Own Way, The Chain, You Make Lovin’ Fun, Gold Dust Woman, and you’re instantly transported to the epitome of musical illustriousness. Any of the 11 songs featured here is music mastery of the highest order. Rumoured to have had much band in-fighting, relationship breakups, and excessive alcohol and drug issues during the recording, somehow it all came together where it mattered – the recording studio, and this release has gone down in history as pure musical genius. Whatever happened, whether it was all that tension and creative differences, or that drunken, drugged-fuelled disharmony, there’s no denying greatness was made. This album has now sold in excess of 40 million copies world-wide (10 million which sold in the first month of its release), which is phenomenal. There’s a reason I love this band, why they are my fave ever, and why this album has only catapulted The Mac into the stratosphere. Impossible not to tap your feet or nod your head to, or crank way, way up, ‘Rumours’ remains one of the greatest records ever recorded!
iTunes / SpotifyRAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE by Rage Against The Machine
In 1992 a little known L.A based band exploded onto the global music scene with such force, they delivered easily one of the most powerful, provocative and defiant releases of all time. Rage Against The Machine’s self titled debut was a big fuck you to 1980’s excess, corporate greed, police brutality, and government abuse of power. This was everything a rebellious, dismissive of authority 19 y.o. could ever want. Fuelled by frontman Zac de Rocha’s aggressive lyrics and rap-a-tat mic attack, and Tom Morello’s muscular guitar chords, RATM’s debut so successfully mashed hip hop, hard rock and metal, that while they spawned many imitators, they were never bettered – ever! To call this groundbreaking is a massive understatement. It was such a phenomenon, in both influence and brilliance, it has yet to be surpassed 28 years on. With powerful guitars and heavy bass, pummelling rhythms, and incendiary lyrics, this album more than other, put the power back in the hands of the people. The album’s album, this is a release that truly is all killer, no filler. Only one word justifies this assertive release perfectly – seminal.THE RUNAWAY FOUND by The Veils
This New Zealand fronted, UK based act captured my imagination and my heart with an album that hardly anyone’s heard of – although filmmakers David Lynch and Tim Burton sure have, using The Veils music in their films. I was introduced to them by a former girlfriend and I’ve never looked back. Lead singer and songwriter Finn Andrews, weaves a confidence and assuredness usually reserved from more seasoned artists, but here on ‘The Runaway Found’ the band’s debut release, Finn melds that self-confidence and adds a sensitivity to give the band’s music and vocals an aching emotion and depth. The album starts strong, with early singles Guiding Light and More Heat Than Light, setting the album ablaze, but it’s at about the halfway mark, that this album soars into the stratosphere of greatness with the more expressive, telling tracks searing into the subconscious and penetrating your soul. This is still one of the best little records I own that deserves (and still does) more recognition than it got. Discover the brilliance of this release and disappear into the majesty that is The Veils and ‘The Runaway Found’.PLAY by Moby
At the end of the millennium (1999), an electronic loving, bald vegan music producer, released an album that dominated the charts and changed the way music was perceived and received. Moby’s ‘Play’ sat at No.1 for over 60+ straight weeks (unheard of) and would go on to become something of a cultural phenomena. His music would feature heavily in film, TV advertising, and the like and for very good reason. Moby found the sweet spot between electronica, sampling, instrumentation, guest vocalists, and most of all – hit tunes, that struck a chord the world over. Songs such as Porcelain, Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad, Bodyrock, and Run On, redefined the way electronic music was seen. Shifting away from his heavier, dance/club beats, Moby made the successful crossover into mainstream and commercial appeal, where ‘Play’ became THE album to have, and rightly so. His thoughtful tracks, lilting odes, and sweet, memorable singles, made him an “overnight” sensation. Even some 21 years later, this album has lost nothing of its resonance. In an album full of incredible hits and diverse singles, it’s the last song on the album, My Weakness, which is my absolute fave. Something about those epic pipe organ notes hits me deep to my core. This is such an accomplished, impressive record, no collection is complete without it.MIGHTY JOE MOON by Grant Lee Buffalo
For a three piece, this blues, roots and rock collective sure pack a powerful punch, which makes them sound much bigger and grander than a trio. While this act had already had some mild success with earlier album with the very cool self titled single, Fuzzy a year earlier, their follow up was to say the least – a classic! The album roared between straight up ballsy rock (Lonestar, Sing Along, Demon Called Deception) through to the slower, more ethereal and emotive tunes such as It’s The Life, Mighty Joe Moon and Happiness. But it’s the more eclectic tracks that make this album rise above. Hit single Mockingbird, and my personal fave (and last track on this superb release), Rock Of Ages, that truly elevate this album to the upper echelons. Each of the 13 fantastic, memorable songs, merely enhance this album’s status to that of distinction.JUST ENOUGH EDUCATION TO PERFORM by Stereophonics
In my humble opinion, this Welsh band from the tiny village of Cwmaman in Wales, has always seemed to have been under appreciated and gotten less kudos than other contemporary bands of similar ilk received, even with the success they had. But to me, the Stereophonics were the best in that Brit alternative/indie genre. Just something about them and their rawer approach and more honest music, that lifted them above their contemporaries. In ‘Just Enough Education to Perform’ (J.E.E.P), the band’s music and songwriting matured, and it showed in their excellent debut single Mr. Writer, a well veiled swipe at music critics who were quick to tear them down. Opener Vegas Two Times, a gospel-tinged rocker is a brooding number that promises one thing then takes a sharp detour to surprise. Reported to have ended his long time relationship during the making of this record, lead vocalist and songwriter, Kelly Jones’ emotional heart is there for all to hear, unafraid to bare his soul and heartache, best demonstrated in Watch Them Fly Sundays, and Maybe, two beautiful, sweeping tunes. Other noteworthy tracks include Step On My Old Size Nines, the popular Have a Nice Day, and the well constructed, look back on history Nice To Be Out. But in all honesty, pick any of the 12 songs selectively added here and you can’t go wrong. They were to follow this excellent album up with another cracker ‘You Gotta Go There to Come Back’, which produced further amazing and fantastic tracks, but it was J.E.E.P that was to be my favourite release of theirs.
iTunes / Spotify
JUST OUTSIDE THE TOP 10:
IV by Led Zeppelin, Hot August Night by Neil Diamond, Sonic Temple by The Cult, OK Computer by Radiohead, Altamont Diary by Black Cab.
BEST SONGS OF ALL TIME!
BECAUSE I LOVE YOU by The Master’s Apprentices
No other song has captured my adventurous spirit, imagination, and loving soul more than this one. The chorus alone, “Do what you wanna do, be what you wanna be,” has literally been my life’s motto throughout my entire life. I live it every single day. But this song is also much more than a personal anthem, as it’s a huge ode to love and the emotions we feel when we are apart from our loved one(s). This iconic ‘70s Australian rock ballad took on even more significance and meaning to me on a much deeper, more personal level last year for a very important reason that I won’t go into here. Even without that extra importance, Because I Love You by The Master’s Apprentices, is one incredibly powerful, affecting, and unforgettable song. It sits at #1 on my ‘All Time Best Songs’ for very good reason. Expect this impacting track to be the very last tune played at my funeral (when I die many years/decades from now) – I love it that much!DON’T CHANGE by INXS
Occupying my number #2 slot is INXS’s classic, Don’t Change. I revere and love this for so many reasons, from it being the last song the illustrious Aussie band played at the first ever concert I ever went to, to the lyrics which detail how we should never change or compromise ourselves for those who choose to love us. While we must change in order to grow, expand and evolve within, it shouldn’t be at someone else’s bequest. I just dig this song on many levels and find it still holds up almost four decades later, perhaps taking on even more importance. All time classic track.NON, JE NE REGRETTE RIEN by Edith Piaf
Oh Edith. The amazing French chanteuse affectionately dubbed ‘The Little Sparrow’, that despite her diminutive 4’8” stature, had the biggest lungs in music back in her day from the ‘40s until her death in 1963. She could not only carry a tune all on her own but command attention doing so. The song’s title literally means: ‘No, I Will Have No Regrets,’ and it’s the kind of number that literally makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. It’s also yet another song I live by. This haunting, evocative tune gets more powerful as the years fall away. Such a great, important song of the ages that has lost none of its sheer power or raw emotion. Magnifique!SLAVE TO LOVE by Bryan Ferry
What is it about Bryan Ferry and his band Roxy Music, that just oozes cool? Slave To Love. What can I say? As a hopeless romantic, I feel I’ve been a slave to love. I love love, and this song, perhaps more than other, epitomises my love of it no matter whether it goes down in flames in a few months or lasts several years. Easily the coolest, smoothest song on my list. I’ll never stop giving into love and I’ll never stop listening to this song as I seek its comforting embrace and beauty.MEMORY GOSPEL by Moby
Hands down the greatest B-side of all time. This haunting, evocative tune from Moby came on the flip side of one of his hit singles from hit album ‘Play’, but this powerful tune always struck a chord with me. Arguably the song I have also played the most above any other song I have. It also took on extra special importance when with my headphones plugged in, I’d play to this to an unborn Kailan via his mama’s belly only for him to recall it many, many months later after he was born. The look of recognition on his face is one I’ll never forget. Priceless. Music – so powerful, and no song more so than this epic, sweeping track of lush beauty.DREAM A LITTLE DREAM by Mama Cass
More well known for her work with the band The Mamas and the Papas, it was this exquisite solo effort which outshone the biggest hits her former band had. The simplicity of the song, the heartfelt lyrics, the sweet sentiment that this song is about, has always made me smile, and continues to some 40-50 years on. Just beautiful.DON’T STOP TIL YOU GET ENOUGH by Michael Jackson
You can take the boy out of the disco but you can never take the disco out of the boy. While I was born a little too late to be able to fully appreciate disco in it glory days, I certainly came to find it once I hit my teens, where it’s stayed with me ever since. Without doubt disco is the most fun you can have with your clothes on, and no song captures this more than the king of pop’s glorious disco smash, Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough. It is THE song guaranteed to get me on that dance floor and pull out all my best disco-dance moves. I fucking love this track. Just so much fun. Whoa!DON’T GIVE UP by Peter Gabriel & Kate Bush
This has to be the most touching of all the songs on my list, while the video is without doubt the most beautiful music video I have ever seen. If you only watch one video in this entire list, I implore you to view this sumptuous piece of artistry. It’s just so charming, so graceful, pure heavenly. I am sure this song has been a life saver to many over the years, and for good reason. It truly is a sumptuous, poignant track, that has no equal.GOD ONLY KNOWS by The Beach Boys
While I’m not a huge Beach Boys fan, God Only Knows, is easily their greatest song of all and is a whole other level of divine exquisiteness. From that instantly recognisable opening, to the song’s emotional core, the sensitivity and depth this track reaches is something else. A beautiful song doesn’t ask for attention, it just is.TOUCH OF PARADISE by John Farnham
I know no other song that conjures up dreamy images of love and bliss more than John Farnham’s staggering rendition of Touch Of Paradise. If I ever get married, this will be my wedding dance song, that’s how much I love it. This song reaches deep into you and affects you at such a cellular level, there are no words or better way, to say how much someone special truly means to you. Simply mesmerising and exquisite beyond words.
iTunes / Spotify / Youtube
JUST OUTSIDE THE TOP 10:
Scenic World by Beirut, Street Spirit (Fade Out) by Radiohead, Harvest Moon by Neil Young, These Arms Of Mine by Otis Reading, Sara by Fleetwood Mac.
To hear these 10 songs (and 40 other faves) in a single playlist, click 50 Best.