Mercury Prize 2024: My Top 12 (Part 1)
As the highly anticipated Mercury Prize ceremony approaches on September 5, music enthusiasts and critics alike are buzzing with excitement over this year's top 12 nominees. Each artist on the shortlist has brought something unique to the table, representing the best in British and Irish music from a wide range of genres. From groundbreaking newcomers to seasoned veterans, this year's nominees promise a thrilling competition for one of the most prestigious awards in the music industry.In this article, I’ll be unveiling my personal ranking of the top 12 nominees, complete with scores that reflect both their artistic impact and potential to take home the coveted prize.
#12 Cat Burns - Early Twenties
This would have been a decent album if it had been cut down to 9-10 songs. I appreciate the attempt to make the music accessible on the debut album, but it lacked the depth to be taken seriously.
6.0/10
#11 Ghetts – On Purpose, with Purpose
The album is filled with big statements and highlights, but it blurs in its narrative, making the weak moments feel too weak and the strong moments feel less powerful.
6.2/10
#10 BERWYN - WHO AM I
Quite an inspiring debut, which reveals the artist's future potential quite well. In places he stumbles and doesn't know where to go next, but with time this will pass.
6.2/10
#9 Corto.alto - Bad With Names
I appreciate such a nominee, it is quite pleasant British jazz. Memories of Ezra Collective immediately come to mind, which, of course, were brighter. But this is an excellent option for working out the genre and a personal approach.
7.0/10
#8 Barry Can't Swim - When Will We Land?
Another debut album on the list, the artist offers a successful creative approach, working with instruments and vocal samples. It’s not something completely new in the deep house genre, but young blood is always useful.
7.0/10
#7 Nia Archives - Silence Is Loud
A pretty powerful presentation of the old school jungle genre, taking in pop, soul and RnB. It's dynamic, it allows itself to be cheerful and spontaneous, due to which it seems quite accessible and not overloaded.
7.5/10
Stay tuned for part 2 tomorrow.