When asked what I wanted for Christmas this year, my response was mostly that I just want to drink Baileys out of Lindt bunnies and dance in my socks in the kitchen. Y'know?
More specifically though, it's Beyonce's Renaissance that I particularly wish to be kitchen-disco-ing to. Mostly because it is the strongest, sexiest riot of soul, disco and house music I've heard in an age, but also because Queen Bey is (basically) the same age as me and my children think she's cool, which keeps hope alive in my soul.
Whilst Harry Styles' "As It Was" and Taylor Swift's "Anti-Hero" have been particular earworm companions of 2022, nothing has compared to Renaissance's lead single "Break My Soul" – an empowering glitter ball smash of rage release, empowerment and motivation. Amidst the barrage of overwhelming negativity on every platform, screen and newsstand around, Beyoncé's sweary resilience of "Cozy", the reclamation act of soul-infused "Church Girl", filthy lyrics in "Virgo's Groove", and political volition of "I'm That Girl" are the pressure release valve we all need right now.
The album is confessional and opinionated, it is dipped in honey and dripping with glitter. I want to save the saucy laugh at the end of "Heated" as my ring tone and remind myself to shake off the bad vibes every time I hear it. The singer's pride, resilience and self-respect are as catchy as the dance hall beats and classic disco grooves that make up the album. Give me the rhythm of "Thique" and I can't not start to shake it. Give me the sass of "Cuff It" and I can do nothing but strut. Here's to taking a leaf out of Beyoncé's book and (metaphorically) riding Godiva-like into 2023 on a magical glowing horse. Chin chin.
Two More Essential Albums from 2022:
Lizzo – Special
FKA Twigs – Caprisongs
Musical Experience of the Year:
Feeling like I'd seen ABBA in actual real life during the virtual reality ABBA Voyage show at a custom built stadium in the depths of East London. This unique, experiential show sees 3D projections of the band performing their greatest hits to a dedicated crowd dressed in spangles and flares for the occasion.
Track of the Year:
Steve Lacy – "Bad Habit"
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