So there goes 2019, kicking and screaming into the annals like an unpopular relative who’s outstayed their festive welcome long after the Christmas left overs have been fed to the dog and only the mini Bountys and orange creams remain in the tin. It’s fair to say the final year of the second decade of the 21st century hasn’t been a vintage one in the wider world. However, in our vinyl community, there’s plenty to celebrate. Our Top 100 Albums Of 2019 once again show that times of social discord can give rise to brilliant, creative and reactionary music – with the likes of Big Th ief, Slowthai, The Specials, Fontaines DC, Richard Dawson and Michael Kiwanuka all producing articulate, angry and yet hopeful responses to the current world order and worsening climate crisis. Of course, our memories of 2019 will be tinged with sadness, and our hearts go out to Nick Cave, whose stunning new album Ghosteen is a harrowing account of an event no parent should ever have to come to terms with; and it was desperately sad that David Berman of Purple Mountains took his own life after making some of his finest music. Particularly at Christmas time, we should all remember to look out for those who are alone or in need.
The year also saw a series of revelatory reissues, such as the vast Prince and long-overdue Gene Clark releases. The ongoing good news story of the rebirth of independent record shops is also worth toasting. Record Store Day continues to capture the imagination and more than 10,000 of you voted for our shop of the year. Turn to page 66 to find out who our worthy winners are. While we continue to champion the tireless work of our friends in independent shops, we were also heartened by the return of HMV to the vinyl world. The rejuvenated chain this year opened a massive new Birmingham flagship store stocking 25,000 records, and vinyl is again a major presence in their other UK stores. There are more records on the high street than in a hell of a long time – something few would have predicted 20 years ago. So pop into your local store while you’re out Christmas shopping – they deserve your support. Merry Christmas and thanks for reading.