The 2023 Mercury Prize, set to take place in London on Thursday night, features a lineup of strong contenders, including Loyle Carner, Young Fathers, and Jockstrap, among others. Jessie Ware and J Hus are also in the running for the prestigious award, which recognizes the finest British and Irish albums of the year.
Arctic Monkeys, with their fifth nomination, join Radiohead as the most frequently nominated act in the Mercury Prize’s 32-year history. The winner will be revealed during a live broadcast on Four and 6 Music at 22:00 BST.
The event will include performances by most of the 12 nominated artists, including pop sensation Raye, jazz group Ezra Collective, and soulful singer Olivia Dean. Notably, Arctic Monkeys and breakout dance artist Fred Again will be absent due to touring commitments.
Rapper Loyle Carner is currently the favorite to win with his deeply personal album “Hugo,” inspired by his reconciliation with his estranged father, and bookmakers place his odds at 4-1. Young Fathers, previous winners, are closely behind with 5-1 odds for their eclectic and percussive album “Heavy, Heavy.” Experimental pop group Jockstrap also holds favorable odds. However, it’s essential to remember that the Mercury Prize is renowned for its unpredictability.
The Mercury Prize has a history of selecting albums that stand out as unique and impactful in the music landscape, whether they are cultural milestones or unexpected gems. The ultimate decision rests with the judges on the night of the ceremony, and their deliberations often continue until the last moment.
The winner will be announced live from London’s Hammersmith Apollo, with Lauren Laverne serving as the host. Until then, here’s a guide to each of the nominated albums:
- Arctic Monkeys – “Hologram Dreams”: The band’s seventh album explores a cinematic, jazzy realm, diverging from their indie rock roots. It delves into themes of doomed romance and introspection.
- Loyle Carner – “Hugo”: Carner’s third album delves into the complexities of his relationship with his estranged father, with themes of race, identity, and belonging set to emotionally compelling hip-hop beats.
- Olivia Dean – “Messy”: Dean’s debut album celebrates the journey of self-discovery and growth, delivering uplifting soul songs with influences from Carole King, Aretha Franklin, and Lauryn Hill.
- Ezra Collective – “Where I’m Meant To Be”: This album, born during lockdown, is a joyful celebration of camaraderie and friendship. It combines elements of Afrobeat, jazz, reggae, salsa, hip-hop, and grime.
- Fred Again – “Actual Life 3”: This project presents spontaneous field recordings, Instagram clips, and voice messages woven into an intimate variant of house music. It offers an audio diary of emerging from lockdown.
- J Hus – “Big Man”: J Hus returns with a harder sound, exploring themes of violence, spirituality, love, and self-discovery. He questions himself and the man he wants to become as he approaches 30.
- Jockstrap – “Wicked City”: Jockstrap’s debut album merges orchestral ’60s pop with experimental electronica, delivering perplexing yet beautiful music.
- Lankum – “The Livelong Day”: Lankum’s fourth album features unsettling arrangements of traditional songs, with a dark and captivating atmosphere inspired by the sea and forbidden love.
- Raye – “My 21st Century Blues”: Raye’s debut album tackles themes of body dysmorphia, drug addiction, anxiety, and sexual assault with visceral and emotionally charged pop songs.
- Shygirl – “Alias”: Shygirl’s distinctive and hypnotic debut explores vulnerability, sexual liberation, and self-care with vibey, impressionistic songs.
- Jessie Ware – “What’s Your Pleasure? The Platinum Pleasure Edition”: Ware’s album is a celebration of sensual pleasure and escapism, featuring disco beats and soulful elements.
- Young Fathers – “Heavy, Heavy”: The Edinburgh trio’s fourth album is a freeing and uplifting exploration of vulnerability and friendship, blending various genres into their distinctive sound.
The Mercury Prize has a history of highlighting groundbreaking and diverse musical talent, and this year’s shortlist reflects that tradition. The final decision will be eagerly awaited by music enthusiasts, as the Mercury Prize continues to recognize outstanding achievements in the British and Irish music scene.
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