James Acaster is to launch a new BBC podcast based on his belief that 2016 was the best year ever for music.

He will be joined by fellow comedians to discuss his selection of tracks when his Perfect Sounds launches via Radio 1 in April.

Acaster previously wrote the book Perfect Sounds Whatever based on the same premise, describing how his obsession was sparked when he rekindled his love of music following a break-up.

He also already co-hosts the successful independent Off Menu podcast with Ed Gamble.

James Acaster’s Perfect Sound is one of 20 new podcasts announced by the BBC today, including Americast with Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel, the psychological murder drama This Thing of Darkness, a Panorama spin-off, and a talk show from Radio 1 Xtra DJ Dotty.

Later in the spring, Matt Lucas will host a Radio 2 podcast allowing those doing supposedly glamorous jobs to sound off about the unpleasant aspects of their work. Those taking part in Bitch Bitch Bitch include West End actors, flight attendants, and top chefs.

Lucas said: ‘I’m thrilled to be providing these free therapy sessions for the workers of Britain through my new Radio 2 podcast for BBC Sounds. No gripe will be left unheard!’

Comedian Jacob Hawley is also making a new documentary podcast, In Love, exploring the likes of sex clubs, contraception, polyamory, and pornography and much more. The series, to launch in April, follows the success of Jacob Hawley: On Drugs, which is returning this month.

Russell Kane’s Evil Genius, looking at the legacy of historical heroes through modern sensibilities, is also returning for another series.

Published: 4 Feb 2020