Mike Whyte
Albums
Grimes: “Visions”
An album that has grown on many people, me included.
Various Artists: “Bleep Compilation”
If you need an electronic music masterclass, you need look no further.
Hot Chip: “In Our Heads”
At one time they may have seemed like a novelty act – not any more.
Toy: “Toy”
Psychedelia is back via this London outfit – as re-imagined for the 2010:s.
Orbital: “Wonky”
Back down with the kids – except when they try to be down with the kids.
Air: “Le Voyage Dans La Lune”
It took my breath away at the start of the year. And by year’s end, it still does.
Saint Etienne: “Words and Music”
Underrated album from I feel an underrated band.
Actress: “R.I.P.”
The aural equivalent of watching a horror movie – amazingly intriguing album.
Flying Lotus: “Until the Quiet Comes”
Just when you thought you had him pegged, an album sealed with a new Thom Yorke collaboration leaves the path as wide open as ever for Flying Lotus.
Songs
Katy B: “Danger EP”
Not one song, but an EP:s worth – each strong enough to jostle for album attention.
TNGHT: “Higher Ground”
Hudson Mohawke collaborates with Lunice and suddenly we have the most potent dancefloor duo of the year.
Grimes: “Oblivion”
The best track from one of my artists of the year – frighteningly talented.
MIA: “Bad Girls”
It seems I have one of her tracks in my best of list every year – all I can say is – if she keeps makes ‘em this good, I’ll keep putting ‘em in.
Live Artists
Toy
I’ve seen this band twice this year: one an intimate gig, the other a festival – both times they packed the place out. On their way to big things I feel.
DeadMau5
Can’t bring myself to say I like the music – but boy does this guy put on a show!
Friendly Fires
I saw a lot of great shows this year – but this group topped the scales for pure energy.
Newcomers
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Artists
Grimes
Who else – what a year she has had; a one-woman rave machine.
Mostly Robot
Didn’t make my live category in a really strong year – but great music from this electronic supergroup fonted by Jamie Lidell.
Buraka Som Sistema
Always consistently awesome, and getting better year by year.