Breakthrough Artists of 2012

It was difficult finding 25 Breakthrough Bands of 2012, because there were so many.

DIIV

The New York dream-poppers had a year of supporting The Vaccines and releasing their debut album Oshin. So DIIV (Previously known as Dive after a Nirvana song) managed to break through and into the UK this year.

Deap Vally

They had a wonderful 2012. Again, like DIIV, they supported The Vaccines in November (then Muse in December) and the Californian two piece will surely have an album soon. I'm not the greatest lover of all woman bands, but the drumming of Julie Edwards and the vocals and guitar of Lindsey Troy are great, which has led them to the comparison of The Black Keys and The White Stripes.

Peace

The Birmingham rock group made people go crazy with their EP Delicious, and they will be back for more in 2013 after their song from their EP Bloodshake. After they supported (you'll never guess) The Vaccines as well as Mystery Jets. Watch out for them next year.

Haim

Already, the second all girl group, but this time it's three sisters called Este, Danielle and Alana who are from Los Angeles, just like fellow girl group Deap Vally. Their poppy-R&B-guitar music is very fresh and their humour and charm is adorable. They have really spearheaded girl power this year. That's right The Spice Girls.

Tribes

Johnny Lloyd's band started the year with great songs and weird music videos (one is live of them on top of a building, the other they're being molested by cross-dressers) and won many fans. Their soft indie rock made them one of the most favourite newbie bands of the year.

Kendrick Lamar

He came straight outta Compton, and managed to be a surprise artist of the year. He's been active for almost a decade and has been on the scene for a couple of years, but has really broke through this year with his first tangible album called Good Kid, M.A.A.D City. 2012 was great for the rapper.

TOY

The London psychedelic rockers released their debut album which was creatively named "Toy" and released in September. The shoegazers managed to gain a fanbase and comparison to fellow psych-rockers The Horrors.

FIDLAR

Man, these west coasters really were great this year. They really broke through with anthems like West Coast and Wake Bake Skate, showing the LA pot-lovers really can make some brilliant punk records. Awaiting that first album.

Savages

A THIRD all girl band (God 2012 really had girl power). My least favourite of the three, but they have still had an incredible year, rarely being out of the media, especially the magazines. They have received a nomination for BBC Sound of the Year 2013, and are pioneers in the post-punk genre for women. Again, 2013 should be great for them.

Bleeding Knees Club

The only thing they lacked was a clear sound, but apart from the hazy vocals, Bleeding Knees Club used a great garage sound on their debut album "Virginity" where it really hits the note on catchy surf-rock song "Have Fun".

Django Django

The Edinburgh rock group have had a solid year. Their single "Life's A Beach" from their album "Django Django" really created a hype about them and which led to a Mercury Prize nomination. That's not too shabby.

Jessie Ware

She is the likable pop sensation. She's still too cool to be a chart topper, and her voice and style is divine. Her enchanting sound really shows in her single "Night Light" which has an edge of soul, giving Ware a great Niche in the market.

Alabama Shakes

Most of you have probably forgot about these guys, but the band (funnily enough from Alabama) fronted by Brittany Howard, showed a unique side with their southern and blues rock. The major and most notable single from the band is "Hold On". Their album "Boys & Girls" made it to number 3 in the UK Album Charts as well, gaining popularity in the process.

Bastille

Bastille had a glimpse of notice in 2011, but the band managed to boost its fanbase in 2012 with big hits "Bad Blood" and "Flaws". With a support act slot with Two Door Cinema Club in February and their debut album out in March, things can only get better from here.

Michael Kiwanuka

He has been dubbed "The Black Jack Johnson" as well as being likened to Otis Redding. He won the BBC Sound of 2012, nominated for the Mercury Prize for his album "Home Again" and has managed to gain a loyal support. His soul music fuses brilliantly with his guitar, making him one of the best of the year.

Dog Is Dead

The Nottingham folk band who were compared to Mumford and Sons have proved they are very different from their fellow folk-rockers. They took an indie pop side and their single "Glockenspiel Song" was really lovely, summing up their album "All Our Favourite Stories". Might not have been a massive band this year, but they certainly cemented a future for themselves.

Jake Bugg

This is the teenager who declared war against the X Factor and won. This is the man who got his debut album to number 1 in the UK Album Charts. This is a man who could possibly change indie music from now on. He's a legend, plus he tours with Noel Gallagher and inspired many by singing about Clifton, his council scheme in Nottingham, somewhere that is very difficult to be brought up.

Howler

The Americans who play some of the best surf-rock to be heard in a good decade and are an absolute riot live, surely they come from the sandy beaches of California? Nope, these rockers come from cold Minnesota, which makes the music even better as it is hard to make music without being inspired. Their album "America Give Up" sent a clear message to everyone listening "We're for real, and we're here to stay".

Azealia Banks

"I guess that cunt gettin' eatin'" was famous lyrics from Harlem rapper Banks in her anthem "212", which managed to chart mid-way through the year with its cool dance sound mixed with badass, sweary rapping from her. We are still waiting on an album - which is released in February - but we did get a mixtape from her called Fantasea which went down popular with the fans. Next year could be even better for her.

Of Monsters and Men

Another comparison to Mumford and Sons, except this one is a closer comparison. Icelandic five-piece Of Monsters and Men made a folk-craze come to life when they released their single "Little Talks" and making Icelandic music more noticed. Their album finished off a mental year for the band.

Palma Violets

The Libertines are gone, so it's only natural to find a prodigy who could possibly fill the boots of one of the best indie bands ever. This band is Palma Violets. They haven't released much, but they have released single "Best of Friends" which has everyone wanting more. In this small amount of time, they have managed to front the cover of NME twice in 2012, despite being relatively unknown at the start of the year. With an album and the NME tour coming up in 2013, it's looking prosperous for the boys.

Lana Del Rey

She has been around in 2011, but her album "Born To Die" reached number 1 in the UK Album Chart in 2012 and she became a style icon, with H&M and Jaguar modelling this modern-day Nancy Sinatra. Her music may seem gloomy sometimes, but really it has a lot of class and beauty about it, but still shows a rebellious side to her. One thing we know for sure is that her pussy tastes like Pepsi-Cola.

Spector 

They brought something cool to pop rock that wasn't anything like generic bands like The Script. With a witty and charming frontman, honest lyrics and just cracking anthems, colourful shirt-wearing band Spector really changed the scene of indie pop rock with their interaction with the crowd and their near-perfect album "Enjoy It While It Lasts". You also never hear the end of "Fred from Spector". Good stuff.

Frank Ocean

Previously known as part of rap collective OFWGKTA (Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All) in 2011, Ocean decided to go solo for an album, with a little help from some of his friends from Odd Future (including Earl Sweatshirt). His album Channel Orange was full of love and confusion, but it was phenomenal. He has done more than just write an album however. He has become a bisexual icon after coming out as bisexual, a big step in hip-hop.

Alt-J

Hipsters love them, for now anyway. Soon however, Alt-J will claim worldwide fame after winning the highly prestigious Mercury Prize with their album "An Awesome Wave" which despite not doing well in the charts, received rave reviews. Touring will continue in 2013, but 2012 will be a year Alt-J will remember as the year they broke into the music scene and obliterated the field.

Who was your artist of the year? Is there any missing that you think deserve a place on the list? Express your opinions by commenting below.

Follow me on Twitter: @RealMickHouston

Top 10 Films of 2012

It has been quite a year for films, but due to many being released, it was hard to pick a top 10 films of the year. I made a list however, and it goes as following.

10 Ted

n

One of the best comedies of the year came from the genius mind of Seth McFarlane, creator of Family Guy. The story of a teddy bear who comes to life after a little boy wishes that his favourite teddy would come to life. At this point Ted sounds like a lovely children's story, but as John (Mark Wahlberg) grows up, so does his teddy Ted who becomes his best friend. Through teenage years, Ted goes from a nice bear to a weed-loving, womanising bear and still stays with John as an adult, much to the dislike of his girlfriend (Mila Kunis) who feels Ted needs to go and survive himself. It's full of controversial jokes and is completely unique. Good thinking by McFarlane.

9 Sinister

Although nearer the end it has its flaws of being a stereotypical horror, Sinister is a great thriller of a man who writes novels and moves house for inspiration. When he finds tapes of families being killed by their youngest child and finds they are linked with others, things start to get weird. It does genuinely frighten the audience for the first hour as they are unknown to what will happen.

8 Looper

Looper is a mind-bending film about the future and criminal organisation which features a "looper" called Joe (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) having to kill his future self (Bruce Willis) in what is a bit like 2012's Inception. It's an absolute thriller and was a very creative idea from director Rian Johnson.

7 The Avengers

What's not to love about a film that features Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, The Hulk, Hawkeye, Black Widow and Nick Fury? When The Avengers Assembled into one film, people were excited and why should they not? Nick Fury recruits the superheroes (previously seen in Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and The Hulk films) to stop Thor's adoptive brother Loki, from subjugating the Earth.

6 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Lord of The Rings prequel The Hobbit was put into three parts, and although the first part wasn't incredible, it still managed to wow fans and left enough for an exciting follow-up. Mixing comedy and great action, this film deserves to be up in 6th place as Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf and company, go on a quest to retake the lands of the dwarves.

5 Skyfall

Daniel Craig returned to his role in the latest James Bond film Skyfall. This film consists of a rehabilitated Bond finding computer hackers who have led terrorist plots around London, threatening MI6. Again, a couple of flaws, but this film had the sophistication and style to pull off a great film.

4 The Cabin in the Woods

Of what looked like a terrible horror when advertised, it turned out to be a smart and scary film. Although the ending is a little far fetched, it really messed up the minds of the viewers. It also put many in mind of the likes of horror film Hostel, where they control what happens, leaving a sense of fright with the audience.

3 The Hunger Games

The new Twilight or Harry Potter, except better. I mean, sure the book was better, but the film still showed the ferocity of the competitors in ways the book couldn't have shown. It is head and shoulders better than the non-emotional Twilight and could contest the greatness of Harry Potter. With two tributes from each of the twelve districts being selected to fight to the death, where there will only be one victor. Such a thrilling and enthralling film.

2 The Amazing Spider-Man

The reboot of the popular Spiderman trilogy was skeptical, but if anything, out of the four films, this is the best one. Andrew Garfield is a bit more cheeky and adored a lot more by the female fans compared to Tobey Maguire. Maybe all Spiderman needed was someone who was more likely to fight crime, rather than a timid kid. Anyway, I would love to say this is my favourite superhero film of the year, but it isn't...

1 The Dark Knight Rises

This film had it all: a star studded cast, a great plot, a terrifying villain, a weak Batman and a real fear that Bruce Wayne could die in this final film of the trilogy. It was a great end and a great film, yet still not better than The Dark Knight. Such a great way to end the trilogy in an exciting film.

Films I have still to watch:
Life of Pi
Argo
Chronicle
21 Jump Street

What was your favourite film of 2012? Do you disgaree with any of the Top 10? What can you not wait for in 2013? Express your opinions by commenting below.

Follow me on Twitter: @RealMickHouston

Top 25 Heroes of 2012

After the 25 Villains of 2012 were revealed, now comes the 25 Heroes of 2012. This involves political figures, muscians, sportsmen and entertainers. So let's start off our countdown...

25 PSY

Some of you are probably thinking, "Wait, why is this man who created a dance that embarrassing adults started doing after it was cool, make him a hero?". Well, it doesn't. He may have made a funny dance that soon fermented into proper cheese, but just think about it for a minute. This is one of the only men to sing a song that isn't in English and reached number 1, he shows that you can be funny and make an addictive, catchy song, and best of all, his video for Gangnam Style took over Justin Bieber's video for his single Baby. At least Beliebers cannot say they have the most viewed video of all time.

24 Zambia

After years of war and poverty, the nation of Zambia had something to smile about when their national football team won the African Cup of Nations where they were ranked outsiders. A penalty shootout helped the minnows triumph over giants Ivory Coast in the final, as they won their first title.

23 Alex Trimble

He had one hell of a year didn't he? Although Two Door Cinema Club's "Beacon" came second best to indie rock group The Vaccines' "Come of Age", they gained massive popularity, they sold out all their February dates instantly and best of all, Alex got the honour of singing at the Olympics Opening Ceremony, showing people he can really sing.

22 Swedish House Mafia

The definition of going out on a high should be in history under Swedish House Mafia. Near the start of the year, they announced they would be splitting to do individual projects, but announced many dates. T In the Park was their last appearance in Scotland, where people flocked to see them. They then announced dates in Amsterdam and Paris as many Brits travelled to watch some of their last performances in Europe. They continue their "One Last Tour" around the rest of the world next year before ending, in what will likely be in style.

21 The Stone Roses

They played T In the Park, they announced dates in London and Glasgow for 2013, they announced they could be making new songs in 2013. I would say their reunion was a success and they would be higher up this list if it wasn't for the over-hype of many people.

20 Fernando Alonso

He narrowly missed out on winning the F1 2012 World Championship for the third time by German Sebastian Vettel in an underpowered Ferrari car, compared to the superiority of the Red Bull car. It was heartbreaking for him, but he was great. His driving was rarely poor and if Vettel was not racing, he would have dominated the season.

19 The Rolling Stones

Okay, let's forget for a moment that they completely ripped people off with absolutely abysmal ticket prices and just think about this, the band have now been going for over 50 years, they put on a hell of a show for those who went to their concert and they performed a charity benefit for the victims of Hurricane Sandy. They can be good guys sometimes.

18 Indie/Rock Bands

Again a dubious decision, but artists like The Vaccines, Mumford and Sons, Lana Del Rey, Muse, The Killers and Jake Bugg all topped the album chart in the autumn and spring months, with the likes of Two Door Cinema Club only being kept out of top spot by another one of these artists. Then there was bands like hardcore band Enter Shikari being top of the album charts at the midweek, only to be crushed cruelly by "Saturday Shopping" with their album falling to number 4.

17 Barack Obama

Put aside the fact that he is the coolest guy to ever be in charge of a nation and the fact that he can probably slam dunk like a badass, he's more than that. Despite losing a lot of popularity in America in his four years in charge, he managed to show that he is a lot better than Mitt Romney for President, shows he wants to keep peace with countries instead of fighting them and completely roasted Romney in the debates. Ooohh burrnedd.

16 Felix Baumgartner

He managed to do a near-impossible feat by jumping from space to Earth, in the highest descend. He was a brave, brave man.Now he'll go down in history for that record-breaking skydive.

15 Usain Bolt

The Jamaican sprinter yet again entertained the crowds, showed off his ego and defeated the opposition. He famously done to Mobot as Mo Farah done the Lightning Bolt in what was one of the best pictures of the games. He yet again won the 100m, 200m and was part of the winning 4x100m relay team for a second Olympics in a row.

14 Noel Gallagher

One of the legends of music wowed people as a solo artist, and he continued his great music with many dates on tour. He is also the man who has gave Jake Bugg the push in his career that he needs. Great man. Great music.

13 Oscar Pistorius

The Blade Runner from South Africa deserves to be on here due to his breakthrough. He manages to become the first amputee to compete in the Olympics. He managed to make the semi finals of the 400m in the Olympics and won in the Paralympics. Great stuff.

12 Enter Shikari

The hardcore band turned very Greenpeace this year which helped to get their point across in their new album "A Flash Flood of Colour" which slates the government (Gandhi Mate, Gandhi), reminds people of what could happen if they don't change their ways (Arguing With Thermometers) and adds a cool dubstep sound (Sssnakepit). They have really picked it up when performing live as well. Bravo boys.

11 Christopher Nolan

Possibly the greatest trilogy ever made (The Batman Trilogy) was directed by no other than this man. Nolan changed Batman from a comical film with many cheesy flaws, to a serious, dark franchise with a great selection in casting and a great selection in scenery. The Dark Knight Rises finished off the trilogy in dramatic fashion, ending the best 7 hours of my life. He really was amazing because he made every character have reason, and made Bruce Wayne look unable to win many a time.

10 Andy Murray

After a couple of years of heartbreak, Scotsman Andy Murray had a great year in 2012. He reached the final of Wimbledon, which ended in heartbreak again, but recovered to win Gold at the Olympics against Roger Federer (who defeated him at Wimbledon) and beat Novak Djokovic at the US Open to win his first major. That's heroic.

9 New Generation of Bands

This year saw a remarkable step for bands. The likes of Tribes, Howler, TOY, Palma Violets, Savages, Spector, Swim Deep, Deap Vally as well as solo artists Michael Kiwanuka, Frank Ocean, Lucy Rose and Jake Bugg. All I'm saying is, I cannot wait for 2013.

8 Frank Ocean

Talking about Frank Ocean just there, he really brought a fresh new sound to hip hop didn't he? Although he was already established through rap group OFWGKTA, he brought so much to the stage in 2012. He managed to have a successful album called Channel Orange, he was a pioneer as he announced he was bisexual (something not very common in hip hop) and he brought some sweet vocals with him too. He'll do great.

7 Sebastian Vettel

He is youngest driver to win a race, win pole position, win a title, win two titles and recently became the youngest driver to win three world titles. No wonder he gets called "Baby Schumi". Some criticised him as an unworthy champion due to his huge advantage in car over Alonso, but he did stay consistent, finishing 6th or above in every race he finished, he made some miraculous comebacks and he never gave up. Truly deserved winner.

6 Arctic Monkeys

They had a great year after their album Suck It and See, with the release of their single "R U Mine?" and then best of all, they played the Olympics. Playing the Opening Ceremony, they kicked into "I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor" which had the stadium screaming at one of the band's biggest performances, if not the biggest of their lives. They followed it up with a slick version of The Beatles' "Come Together" which later entered the charts, showing the popularity of the cover.

5 Mo Farah

He had a great 2012. Off the back of a World Championship 5000m title and a 2nd place in the 10000m, Farah had a lot of expectations to live up to and started the year by retaining his European 5000m title. Now there was immense pressure on him for the Olympics, as he became the first British man to win both 5000m and 10000m titles at the Olympics, both in thrilling fashion.

4 Bradley Wiggins

Wiggo was more than a cyclist in 2012. He became an icon. He sported the Mod look, he was smart, witty and cheeky. Not only was he a great personality, he was a great sportsman. After winning the Tour De France, he managed to then go on and win Olympic Gold in the Time Trial. Ain't too bad, is it Bradley?

3 Team GB

No matter who they were and what they competed in, every athlete inspired a generation and the majority of the athletes worked their arse off when competing. They brought together a nation full of problems and hate, even if it was only for a month. So for this, we salute you athletes.

2 Pussy Riot

They caused political outrage when they were jailed for protesting against President Vladimir Putin in a church in Moscow, which led to two of them being jailed for two years, with the other being released due to no participation in the "punk prayer". They spoke out which is good enough, but they have started many protests against governments as people power is becoming more common globally.

1 Jake Bugg

"I'm keeping that X Factor shit off the top spot" was the words of teenage guitarist Jake Bugg prior to his debut album being released in the same week as former X Factor contestant Leona Lewis. He had a point, and he proved it. But surely he isn't just top because of his war against the X Factor? No. It is also the fact that a teenager within a year is now touring with Noel Gallagher, has sold out shows, is supporting The Stone Roses next year and has become a legend on the likes of Twitter, all because of an honest album which mainly featured stories of living in Clifton, Nottingham, one of the worst schemes in the UK. Inspiring stuff and well deserved first place.

Who was your hero of 2012? Have I missed anyone out who you think should be on it or anyone who you feel should not be on it? Express your opinions by commenting below.

Follow me on Twitter: @RealMickHouston