MERCURY PRIZE 2024: MY TOP 12 (PART 2)

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.

#6 CMAT - Crazymad, For Me

It's a melodic, thoughtful, humorous story that leans more toward stylish and authentic, but understandable country-pop music. Some songs drag a little, but the record has a very light and pleasant feeling.

7.8/10

#5 Corinne Bailey Rae - Black Rainbows

An amazing mix of genres and the ability to switch between them clearly and to the point offers the listener an unforgettable musical journey, as if inspired by the most daring and talented artists of the last century.

8.0/10

#4 English Teacher - This Could Be Texas (THEY WON)

Chaotic, unpredictable, strange, wild. There are many words that can be used, but none of them can fully describe the courage with which the band approached their debut material. I want to say bravo to their creative approach and only wish them luck.

8.0/10

#3 The Last Dinner Party - Prelude to Ecstasy

In a way, for me, this is Wet Leg 2024. Rich in stunning melodies (thanks to James Ford), it takes a deep approach to themes of regret and desire, and it sounds like the band already knows who they are as artists and what they want to offer the listener. For a debut album, that's more than enough.

8.0/10

#2 Charli XCX - Brat

Brat arrived like a comet, and although the blast wave took a little longer to reach me than everyone else, I happily turned towards the blast and took it for myself.

8.1/10

#1 Beth Gibbons - Lives Outgrown

Incredibly wise, painfully vulnerable and very inspiring work. This is a very mature album that you want to study, learn its history and explore it deeper. This is a person who opens up her soul to you and offers you to learn from the outside about what you can feel in different life situations.

8.3/10