Too much music everywhere. You will have read lists elsewhere featuring the mighty Lankum and many, many more. So much music, so little time. I listened to bits of hundreds of albums – was astounded by many of them but these were the ones that stuck and received repeat listens.

Arooj Aftab, Vijay Ayer and Shahzad Ismaily – Love in Exile

This is probably the record that grabbed me more than any other in 2023. It is slow, haunting, repetitive, gentle and powerful. Largely composed of voice, rumbling bass and piano, it is music for meditation, contemplation and dreams. 

Ultramarine – Send and Return

More of that ambient jazz that has eased into the world over the pas few years. This has a techno pulse at heart – albeit a subtle one. A subtle record in many respects, and a beautiful one. Well worth keeping an eye on anything that comes out on the Blackford Hill label.

Simon Pyke – The School of Life: From Trauma to Healing

Like Ultramarine, Simon Pyke is a 90s ambient techno veteran, albeit slightly less celebrated – wrongly imho. Simon has released some wonderful records and this one lies at the top of the pile. Does what it says on the tin.

Andre 3000 – New Blue Sun

Most unexpected surprise of the year. You can read A LOT about this elsewhere. I just liked to leave it on floating through my conscious as I drifted in and out of sleep.

Blue Lake – Sun Arcs

Possibly the best Balearic ambient folk album you’ll hear all year. Very, very easy listening – in a good way.

Steve Gunn and David Moore – Let the Moon be a Planet

Possibly the best Balearic ambient folk album you’ll hear all year. Very, very easy listening – in a good way. Yes, I know I am repeating myself.

Tirzah – Trip9love…???

It’s taken me a while to tune into Tirzah’s gauzy Anglified take on r’n’b. This is gorgeous. Think Tricky meets Aaliyah.

Purelink – Signs

Artificial Intelligence for the early 21st century.

Kristin Hersh – Clear Pond Road

Kristin Hersh continues to amaze with another beautiful solo record – maybe her best yet? Generally acoustic with the odd wash of electric background sound for added power, the addition of cello gives these tunes a depth in keeping with Kristin’s songwriting. I really wish she was more generally recognised as the seer that she is.