Here there are, December’s Accidental Top Twelve, just marginally rearranged from whatever shuffled out while preparing and eating porridge, washing up and clearing away … and not a Santa or snowflake in sight.
THE BYRDS
Goin’ Back
WARREN ZEVON
Accidentally Like a Martyr
ROBERT WYATT
Shipbuilding
NANCI GRIFFITH
Drive-in Movies & Dashboard Lights
COWBOY JUNKIES
A Horse in the Country
SHELBY LYNNE
Leavin’
JOHN STEWART
All the Dangerous Men
PATTY GRIFFIN
Mary
JOHN STEWART
Broken Roses
RUMER
Aretha
ELVIS COSTELLO & ALLEN TOUSSAINT
Freedom for the Stallion
ARLO GUTHRIE
Last Train
Some Days You Do ... 
Nice to see a couple of John Stewart tracks in there. I first listened to him when he joined the Kingston Trio and then when he went solo. His song ‘Armstrong’ still resonates today. Sadly taken too soon, a genuine talent.
I think my favourite song, among many, is ‘Cannons in the Rain’ – also a favourite album, along with ‘The Complete Phoenix Concert’ album. For a while I was involved in am attempt to interest the BBC in a film using his music and possibly John himself in a dramatic role. but somehow it never came together. Did get to talk t him a few times – nice guy, but not one to suffer fools – or would-be screenplay writers- gladly. Was happy to see him live at least half a dozen times, including the Borderline, London gig which was just about his last.
‘Shipbuilding’ – Wyatt or Costello? One heartfelt and minimal, the other heartfelt, a tad over produced but with added Chet. Possible to love both but always a tough call. Anyway Costello with added Toussaint in the shuffle later so everyone’s happy. Nice.
I’ve always liked the Costello version with Chet’s trumpet, albeit put through the wringer – apparently he turned up at Costello’s request (after seeing him at Ronnie’s?), was paid a regular session fee, and left. [It’s the version I chose for my ‘Private Passions’ selection.] But, if I had to choose now, I think the Wyatt has it – just.