At the end of a year when the music headlines and charts were dominated by female artists, our cover story takes a look at the big statements made by the likes of Lily Allen and Miley Cyrus. We also interview Gabriella Cilmi and Irish stars Laura Izibor and Ruth-Anne Cunningham as they assess how the industry treats women.

We have big, big interviews with everyone's favourite East End thespian geezer Ray Winstone as he takes to the seas for new show Moonfleet, returning US sensation Lissie, a reunited Blades and Man Booker Prize winner Anne Enright.

As the fluoride debate continues to rage, we look at the secret meetings behind the cover up. Elsewhere, there's an exclusive report on the harrowing aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan from Concepcion, Panay, the heart of the Philippines.

Plus, it's time for our most favourite Christmas tradition - the annual HP Summit! The likes of Lethal Dialect, SOAK and Jenny Green join members of The Strypes, Delorentos, The Riptide Movement – and more – for a discussion about the most controversial and talked about stories of the year.

All in all, a bumper issue that might just fit in your festive stocking!