It’s one of the most prestigious music prizes handed out each year in Britain, and now nominees for the annual Barclaycard Mercury Prize for 2010 have been revealed. Initially established back in 1992 (and formerly known as just the Mercury Music Prize, before sponsorship became involved), the accolade honours the best album from the United Kingdom or Ireland, with nominees suggested by local musicians, journalists and other industry insiders.
With the trophy often going to outsiders rather than more mainstream options – such as last year’s winner, London rapper Speech Debelle, who beat the likes of Florence and the Machines and La Roux –  this year’s nominee list features brand new debut artists (the xx, Wild Beasts), previous winners (Dizzee Rascal), as well as established big names (Paul Weller).
The winning entrant is set to be announced on Tuesday 7 September. Nominees are:
Biffy Clyro: Only Revolutions
Corinne Bailey Rae: The Sea
Dizzee Rascal: Tongue N’ Cheek
Foals: Total Life Forever
I Am Kloot: Sky at Night
Kit Downes Trio: Golden
Laura Marling: I Speak Because I Can
Mumford & Sons: Sigh No More
Paul Weller: Wake Up the Nation
The xx: The xx
Villagers: Becoming a Jackal
Wild Beasts: Two Dancers