There were some hugely powerful album releases last year – Songs for Kommeno (Intak, NI 457) from a group headed by Günter ‘Baby’ Sommer; Ramzi Aburedwan’s Reflections of Palestine (Riverboat, NI 455); and Bishi’s really groundbreaking Albion Voice (Gryphon, NI 452), a song cycle that remakes English song in a very modern mould. But even with so strong a field, I have no hesitation in making Jocelyn Pook’s DESH (Pook Music, NI 458) my album of 2012. Dramatic, emotional and a fusion of soundworlds, DESH is the kind of music you never want to end. Louise Gray
Ocean of Life: How Our Seas are Changing (Allen Lane, NI 453) is a jargon-free feat by marine conservationist Callum Roberts. He’s lyrical and scientific in his explanations; crystal clear about the present plight; and optimistic in his practical proposals for a ‘New Deal for the Oceans’. The Revenge of History: The Battle for the 21st Century (Verso, NI 457) is a confirmation of the consistent strength and integrity of Seumas Milne’s journalism. Essential in the times ahead.
