THE short list for the 2010 Barclaycard Mercury Prize Album of the Year has been announced.
Step forward: Biffy Clyro, Only Revolutions; Leeds singer Corinne Bailey Rae, The Sea; Dizzee Rascal, Tongue N’ Cheek; Foals, Total Life Forever; I Am Kloot, Sky At Night; Kit Downes Trio, Golden; Laura Marling, I Speak Because I Can; Mumford & Sons, Sigh No More; Paul Weller, Wake Up The Nation; The XX, XX; Villagers, Becoming A Jackal; and Leeds band Wild Beasts, Two Dancers.
“This year’s Mercury list includes musicians from all stages of their careers and from contrasting parts of the British Isles,” says Simon Frith, chairman of judges. “It features music that is urban and rural, light and dark, joyful and profound. The records have wit, an abundance of musical energy and their own distinct voices. There is music here to make you laugh, cry, dance and sing. Enjoy!”
The shortlist was chosen from an entry of more than 200 albums by UK and Irish artists and the winner will be decided and announced at the Barclaycard Mercury Prize Awards Show, broadcast live on BBC2 on Tuesday, September 7.
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