Rapper Dave is among six London artists nominated for the Hyundai Mercury Prize album of the year, in one of the most capital-centric shortlists in years.
Streatham-born Dave’s debut Psychodrama gained the highest number of first-week streams for a British rap album in history, and is tipped to win.
Anna Calvi, from Twickenham, is also shortlisted for her third album Hunter. She said: “I’m so thrilled. This is such a personal record and I put everything I had into it. It means the world to me.”
North London rapper Little Simz’s third album Grey Area also made the list, as did Nao’s Saturn. East Londoner Nao said: “I’m over the moon. The prize celebrates original artists and focuses on the music quality, recognising artists all at different stages of their careers.
“To be nominated for an award won by many artists I admire is an honour.” South London’s experimental rock band Black Midi was also nominated for Schlagenheim. Driftglass, by Seed Ensemble, which features a song dedicated to the lives lost in the Grenfell fire, completes the London line-up.
Cate Le Bon’s Reward; Foals’ Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost — Part 1; Fontaines D.C.’s Dogrel; IdleS’s Joy As An Act Of Resistance; slowthai’s Nothing Great About Britain; and The 1975’s A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships round off the 12-strong list, revealed this morning at the Langham Hotel.
It was chosen by a panel including Annie Mac, Clara Amfo, Jorja Smith and Stormzy, who said their picks celebrate “the diversity of British and Irish music-makers and their shared purpose in exploring identity and belonging at a time of division”. The winner will be announced on 19 September at Hammersmith’s Eventim Apollo.
