The Mercury Prize Award 2024: Celebrating the Best in British and Irish Music

The Mercury Prize is one of the most prestigious music awards in the United Kingdom, celebrating the best albums released by British and Irish artists. Established in 1992, the prize is awarded annually to an album deemed to have had the most artistic impact within the eligibility year. Known for its inclusivity across genres, the Mercury Prize often highlights innovative and boundary-pushing music, bringing attention to artists who might not otherwise receive mainstream recognition.

For 2024, the shortlist is as diverse and exciting as ever, showcasing a mix of established names and emerging talents. Normally, I can pick the winner with ease, but this year is exceptionally tough. Here's a closer look at the nominees:

1. Barry Can’t Swim – When Will We Land?

Barry Can’t Swim's debut album, When Will We Land? is a masterful blend of electronic beats and melodic soundscapes. His unique ability to merge house music with intricate rhythms has captured the attention of both critics and fans alike. Tracks like "Sunsleeper" and "How It Feels" highlight his innovative approach to electronic music.

2. Berwyn – Who Am I

Berwyn’s, Who Am I, is a deeply personal and introspective album that explores themes of identity and self-discovery. His soulful voice and poignant lyrics showcased in songs like "Bad Thing" and "Without You," resonate deeply with listeners, making him a standout artist in contemporary R&B.

3. Beth Gibbons – Lives Outgrown

Beth Gibbons of Portishead fame returns with Lives Outgrown, a hauntingly beautiful album that delves into themes of ageing and reflection. Her ethereal voice and atmospheric production create a captivating listening experience, with tracks like "Rewind" and "Oceans" standing out for their emotional depth.

4. Cat Burns – Early Twenties

Cat Burns captures the essence of young adulthood with her album Early Twenties. Her candid lyrics and relatable themes, evident in songs like "met someone" and "healing," resonate with a generation navigating the complexities of life in their twenties. Burns' fresh take on pop music makes her a notable nominee.

5. Charli XCX – Brat

Charli XCX continues to push pop boundaries with her album Bra*. Known for her fearless experimentation, this album features tracks like "360" and "Apple" that blend hyperpop with raw, confessional lyrics. Charli's innovative approach to music keeps her at the forefront of the pop scene.

6. CMAT – Crazymad, for Me

CMAT's Crazymad, for Me, is a quirky and heartfelt exploration of love and madness. Her witty lyrics and country-infused pop sound create an album that's both fun and introspective. Songs like "Rent" and "Stay For Something" highlight her unique storytelling ability and musical versatility.

7. Corinne Bailey Rae – Black Rainbows

Corinne Bailey Rae returns with Black Rainbows, an album that weaves together elements of soul, jazz, and R&B. Her smooth vocals and rich instrumentation create a lush soundscape, with standout tracks like "Earthlings and "He Will Follow You With His Eyes" showcasing her musical evolution and depth.

8. corto.alto – Bad With Names

Jazz collective corto.alto brings a fresh and dynamic sound with their album Bad With Names. Their fusion of jazz, hip-hop, and funk creates an energetic and innovative listening experience. Tracks like "Hollow" and "EJS" demonstrate their musical prowess and ability to push genre boundaries.

9. English Teacher – This Could Be Texas

English Teacher's debut album, This Could Be Texas, combines diverse influences from artists like Veda Hille and Carina Round. Their refreshing blend of prog-rock structures and lyrical depth is evident in tracks such as "I’m Not Crying, You’re Crying" and "Albatross." The album's exploration of personal and universal themes promises a compelling journey for listeners seeking innovative sounds.

10. Ghetts – On Purpose, With Purpose

Ghetts' On Purpose, With Purpose is a powerful statement of intent from one of grime's most respected figures. His sharp lyricism and hard-hitting beats are showcased in tracks like "Twin Sister" and "Laps," reflecting his growth and influence in the genre. This album cements Ghetts' place as a key voice in contemporary British music.

11. Nia Archives – Silence Is Loud

Nia Archives' Silence Is Loud blends jungle, drum and bass, and soulful melodies to create a captivating sound. Her innovative production and emotive lyrics shine in tracks like "Nightmares" and "Cards On The Table," making her a standout talent in the electronic music scene.

12. The Last Dinner Party – Prelude to Ecstasy

The Last Dinner Party's Prelude to Ecstasy is a bold and theatrical album that blends elements of rock, cabaret, and classical music. Their dramatic compositions and powerful performances, highlighted in songs like "Nothing Matters" and "The Feminine Urge," create an unforgettable listening experience.

The Mercury Prize 2024 shortlist is a testament to the diversity and innovation driving today’s music industry. Each nominee brings a unique voice and perspective, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural expression. As we celebrate these artists, we look forward to their continued impact on the global music stage. While I believe The Last Dinner Party has a strong chance, Barry Can’t Swim, Cat Burns or Chali XCX could equally take the prize. I am rooting for English Teacher, having watched them live three times and followed them since their performance in the Glastonbury Emerging Talent competition. I will be reviewing these albums online over the next couple of weeks and showcase my thoughts and feelings of each of them. However, we will have to wait to see who takes the prize.