To rescue Kahlo from the clutches of the corporate art market, we need to acknowledge the overt and covert political dimensions of the work, demands GAVIN O’TOOLE
2023 has been quite a manic year for the arts, especially in Britain — though, like all years, there are the good, the bad and the curious moments of light and clarity which do make life truly interesting.
Personally, it has been a busy year on numerous fronts — which despite working in music has meant my ability to listen to and see performances has ironically been lessened, a truly strange quality of the profession.
That being said, there are a handful of things I want to share and reflect on.
CHRIS SEARLE recommends a work of love and deep admiration for a great musician
SCOTT ALSWORTH searches for something – anything – worth recommending from the year’s releases
CHRIS SEARLE speaks to Ethiopian vocalist SOFIA JERNBERG
ANN HENDERSON on the exciting programme planned for this summer’s festival in the Scottish capital


