While everyone’s scrabbling around for turkeys, sprouts and the cheapest litre-bottle of Baileys, I’m looking ahead to 2022.

Before the turn of a new year, there’s always the promise of batches of tantalising new tunes, but 2022 really is set to be more explosive than ever. How could we top 2021? Well, future gems from these acts are in the offing…

Modern bands like Fatherson, SPINN and Gang of Youths are due to return with new albums, while you’ve also got the hyped, very relevant Wet Leg and other such fresh outfits ready to strike. I can safely say you’ll need to ready your ears for what Oh Romance are poised to release, too.

I’m also very, very excited about a record from The Mysterines being in the works. I believe that’s meant to land around March, when they’re heading off on tour. That’ll be an earth-shatterer, for sure. 

In the spirit of different genres, you’ve got Kid Cudi saying he’ll be back with gusto in 2022, which should keep the rap fans happy. Into your dance and house? Electro maestro Bonobo will stop teasing us with singles and finally drop what’s bound to be a belter of an album. That’s certainly one to keep tabs on.

But perhaps the most alarm-raising of all — in the best way — is what’s in store for indie music heads. Not only will alt-J make their comeback, but the enormous Animal Collective. It might as well be 2010 all over again. And if that’s not enough, the massively anticipated latest body of work from Bloc Party will be the world’s to savour.

Wow. I hope you’re sitting comfortably from now on…