Every year, much excitement surrounds the release of the Mercury Prize nominations – and for good reason, with the shortlist consistently serving as an indicator of the brightest and best talent. This year is certainly no different - but the one noticeable difference, is the occupation of one of the female artists.
Widely recognized as an award-winning poet and playwright, Kate Tempest is one of the twelve nominees in the running with her debut album of spoken word poetry, Everybody Down – which creatively tackles themes such as romance and class.
Although an unconventional contender, there’s no telling what might happen. We’re in Kate’s corner, that’s for sure.
The winner will be announced on Wednesday 29 October.
See the full shortlist:
Anna Calvi – One Breath
Bombay Bicycle Club – So Long, See You Tomorrow
Damon Albarn – Everyday Robots
East India Youth – Total Strife Forever
FKA Twigs – LP1
GoGo Penguin – v2.0
Jungle – Jungle
Kate Tempest – Everybody Down
Nick Mulvey – First Mind
Polar Bear – In Each and Every One
Royal Blood – Royal Blood
Young Fathers – Dead
