It’s been quite the year, it’s almost Christmas and what would the festive season be without some recognition of the best of 2023? Over the next 2 months we’ll shortlist five nominees in each of 16 categories for our Oscars, or monstas if you will, of 2023.

• Read on for the nominees for the monsta for Best Gig of 2023 Previous winners 2022 Divine Comedy; 2021 Daði Freyr and HYYTS; 2020: Lucy Spraggan; 2019: Divine Comedy; 2018: Suede; 2017: Bananarama; 2016: Shura; 2015: Suede

1. Cian Ducrot, KOKO Review Tickets

2. Alison Goldfrapp, Somerset House Review Tickets

3. Madonna, Palau Jordi, Barcelona Review Tickets

4. Pulp, Eventim Apollo Review Tickets

5. Welly, The Scoop, Tower Bridge Review Tickets

• Who should win? Tell us in the comments below or email us at neildurham3@gmail.com. Winner revealed on this site on 30/12/23
• Vote for best podcast, best venue , best TV/film actress, best TV/film actor, best supporting actor,, best TV, best gig, best album, best new play, best performance of a song, best film, best new musical, best song, best revival best theatre actress
• Enjoyed this shortlist? Follow its author on Twitter @NeilDurham, email neildurham3@gmail.com and check us out on Instagram and Facebook