We've reached that time of the year! Alongside the "BBC Sound Of" shortlist, the Mercury Prize shortlist is just as, if not more indicative of how UK music is going currently and what music is set to look like in the near future. After brushing up on the nominees' albums these past few days, I have some thoughts on the 2017 shortlist...

ALT-J - Relaxer
I've got to be honest - I didn't even realise that this was a full length album until this shortlist was released. I thought it was intended to be an EP. Regardless, at first I didn't know if this should've made the list. It's definitely a very solid album but nothing about it really jumped out at me as overly innovative or different, and no song in particular stuck mind like other albums this year have. Although after listening back over these past couple of days, songs like "In Cold Blood", "Hit Me Like That Snare" and "Adeline" make me want to change my mind. Strong entry from alt-J here.  

THE BIG MOON - Love In The 4th Dimension 
I actually recently shazam'd their song "Cupid" after it caught my attention on a drive, and now that I've listened to the entire album it only cements their place on the list. Even minutes into the album on the opener "Sucker" I was already kicking myself for not having listened sooner. I can already see The Big Moon quickly rising up the festival rosters after this strong debut and although they may not win the Mercury, I'm sure that if they keep putting out awesome material like this, they'll soon have a few awards in tow.

BLOSSOMS - Blossoms
Another band that I can see being a big hit at festivals in the near future. Although a little more retro in their sound, their music has the same punch. The only thing that I found myself wishing for after listening to the record, was for them to have a bit more of a striking sound. If I'd have heard their music come on in a shop for example, there's not much that I could draw on to come to the conclusion that it was Blossoms. They sound very good just not very different. Overall, I'm not mad about this nomination though.

LOYLE CARNER - Yesterday's Gone
I was really excited to see Loyle up for a nomination. I hadn't expected it but I completely understood it. After hearing his first singles and seeing him live a couple of time I was convinced that I'd heard just about everything of concern from Loyle. Boy was I wrong. This debut very pleasantly surprised me and as well as staying true himself and producing content that showcases his life, personality and surroundings perfectly; he's given the public something accessible and enjoyable. Very worthy of the nomination.

DINOSAUR - Together, As One
Loving this new discovery. It's not too often that I listen to full instrumental albums but I've been thinking about it a lot more recently after making my way through some of Lettuce's catalogue. Dinosaur might just be a new favourite. They don't have as much exposure as most of the other atists on the list but music is music and this is good quality. Even if they don't win, it'll be great to see them garner some more new fans from this nomination.

GLASS ANIMALS - How To Be A Human Being
So, so happy that this made the list this year. Ever since their debut I've been smitten with their work, at first even thinking that Glass Animals were my "replacement" for alt-J after being underwhelmed by their second album. So the fact that this sophomore even managed to top the last record only cemented my feelings for their work as a band. This latest album is interesting, diverse and overall fun. I hope to hear more from them over the years but despite how much I enjoy their music, I'm not sure if this will take the prize this year.

ED SHEERAN - Divide
I definitely wasn't surprised to see this one here given all of the records it broke and all of the money it made, but seeing as Mercury prides itself on choosing albums entirerly based on quality I didn't think that Divide was quite good enough to fit the bill. Sure the songs were cool and catchy but something about it was a bit too simple for me and I still don't think it lived up to the hype surrounding it. Again, I wouldn't be surprised if this won the award given its' current success, but I think I'd be disappointed.

SAMPHA - Process
I've already spoken about how much I enjoyed this album in my review here and so of course I was not at all surprised to see Sampha's name on this year's shortlist. Given the work he's put out prior to this and also surrounding this I'd say he's a strong contender for the winning spot this year. Process provided a couple of my favourite songs this year so far and Sampha even featured on a track from my favourite album of last year. If I were a betting person, I'd take this one into serious consideration.

J HUS - Common Sense
YES! I'm buzzing that this made the list as I'd expected Stormzy to be on there and just figured that he'd be flying the flag for Grime this year, but very happy to have J Hus alongside him, on the back of a very solid album. J Hus really put out an album for the people with this new one and as well as giving us witty bars and radio bangers we also have a strong message and an album that I suspect people will be spinning for a long while.

KATE TEMPEST - Let Them Eat Chaos
I'm shocked at just how many times I've heard this name mentioned and just how many chances I've had to see her live and yet, until yesterday, I'd not heard one song from her. Yep, I missed the boat on this one but now that I've jumped on the bandwagon, I think it's an acquired taste but it's so unique right now. It's strength definitely relies on Kate's incredible lyricism but the instrumentals are a little bit take it or leave it for me at the moment. I'm definitely glad that I've finally had a listen and started to form an opinion. Also probably my favourite album title of the bunch.

STORMZY - Gang Signs And Prayer
Another album that I'd have near the top of my list to make bets on would be this debut masterpiece from Stormzy. This record took the world by storm (pun intended) and hasn't let off the gas since. Currently touring in Australia, everywhere he goes Stormzy is drawing in bucket loads of fans and making more along the way. This album coupled with his lovable character helped to make this one of the most exciting records to come out this year and it being his debut only makes it that much more impressive.

THE XX - I See You 
Similarly to alt-J, I was disappointed The xx's second album after such a stellar (Mercury Prize winning) debut album. Now they're back on the list with this collection of absolute bangers, and after seeing them live at Primavera Sound Festival this year, it's only heightened my appreciation for the album. "Dangerous" is still one of the only album openers this year to make me press repeat straight after first listen. As well as keeping their signature sound, The xx have pointed themselves in a new direction and an outstanding one at that. Could this be a second Mercury win for them?

FINALLY! It's actually daft how many times I've missed my chance to see this band! Literally just like with Mallory Knox, I've even met the lead singer and still somehow missed the chance to see them. I couldn't let it pass again...

First support act to the stage was Chunk! No, Captain Chunk!. I've heard the name around for a few years now so I was excited to check them out. Okay, first of all, I had no idea that they were French! It took me a long while to grasp what accent the lead singer had, all I knew is that it wasn't British. They played one of the most mixed sets I've seen in a while. The sound levels were pretty off. The drums and bass were super overpowering so the guitarists suffered for the set. Also, the lead singer struggled a little bit with crowd interaction. Despite that though, he was awesome, I really liked his vocals. However, I do wish their songs were a little less predictable. Pop punk to a tee! When he said "this last song's about friendship" I really had to hold back the laughter - it just reminded me of this. Their bassist and one of their guitarists were strangely immobile throughout the set which was sad but to be honest, the drummer, other guitarist and the lead had ample energy to get the crowd hyped up. They're definitely a band that I need to check out a bit more. Also, their cover of "All Star" was cool.

Next up, was The Summer Set. Another band that I've been hearing about for some time and again I had mixed feelings, but less about external factors this time. They were a really tight band, and were obviously all having so much fun on stage but the lead singer did seem a little posy from time to time. I can't lie, my favourite thing about them by far was their drummer, she was just a wonder to watch. However, their bassist when they covered "Sing" was insane. The crowd was so psyched for them, I will most definitely have to do some more research!

Lastly, officially the hundredth artist/band I've seen in Birmingham - Tonight Alive. So many emotions experienced in just over an hour. This show was more than worth the wait. From the moment they stepped on stage almost every other detail is blurry. They played every. single. song. that I wanted them to! I was surprised that they opened up with "The Edge" but who on earth is complaining?! A switch went off in my brain after the first note; all I was focused on for the next hour or so was the band in front of me. I think this show just reminded me just how good an album The Other Side was. Also, sold out really did mean SOLD OUT - for some time it seemed like it was too packed to even form a pit - this was eventually proven wrong. To be honest, I was surprised I still had a voice after the show, I mean just look at this setlist! I only remember three moments in the set where Jenna spoke and each time it felt like she was having a private conversation with each and every one of us, not just saying things at a mass of people. I don't know if it was the show that was special or just the band, but the vibe that evening was something else. I can't choose a favourite song of the night, they each meant something different. I just hope that this isn't the last I see of them - HUGE HUGE talent!

Overall Rating - 9/10


Here are some pictures from the night...

The music world is blowing up this month! I thought September was the month to beat but October isn't going without a fight. New bands, new albums, new singles, new EVERYTHING coming out left, right and centre.

FKA TWIGS NEW MUSIC VIDEO "#THROUGHGLASS"
2014's topic of conversation. As much buzz as Royal Blood have created this year, I think FKA Twigs has actually managed to match that. It's like as soon as I learnt her name, so did the rest of the world. This self-directed video (here) is art. Fantastically directed, super interesting and such a fresh idea! This is what I love FKA for, BUT I think that it overshadowed the song in quality and took focus away from it too.


CLEAN BANDIT & JESS GLYNNE NEW MUSIC VIDEO "REAL LOVE"
How could we go wrong with another Clean Bandit, Jess Glynne collabo? The answer is, we couldn't. A match made in heaven right now. Doubt it'll be as big a hit as "Rather Be" but it's a banger nonetheless. Jess Glynne's voice is just fabulous anyway and I love the slight 'old school' vibe there is about it. Check out the cool new video here.


FOO FIGHTERS NEW LYRIC VIDEO "SOMETHING FROM NOTHING"
If you haven't already heard the single, I wrote about it here a few days ago. However, now it has a killer new lyric video to go with it and I didn't think it would have much an impact but I think it actually made me like this song even more! I am literally buzzing for the new Foo Fighters record. Learn the lyrics before the rest of the album drops here.



SAINT RAYMOND NEW LYRIC VIDEO "FALL AT YOUR FEET"
Still waiting for an album! I know that when we eventually get a debut record it will be fabulous but until then, this awesome single and the few great EPs already available will have to do! I really love this song. I feel like Saint Raymond's debut might sound like what I originally wanted Ed Sheeran's debut to sound like. Watch the lyric video here.


CHANCE THE RAPPER NEW SINGLE "NO BETTER BLUES"
After watching Chance at Glastonbury here, I've been keeping an eye out for him since. He's releasing a collaborative album before the end of the year with The Social Experiment entitled Surf. This new single is actually taken from that record and if it's anything to go by, I don't know how I'll feel about the rest of the album - not sure what I even think of the song yet! Have a listen here.


GENGAHR NEW SINGLE "BATHED IN LIGHT"
I keep forgetting how I ever got into Gengahr, but regardless, I'm glad I did. This is an interesting track. Sounds a bit Tame Impala-esque at times and if I'm honest I was waiting for a bigger development/change towards the end but it's a solid song no doubt. Check out the new single here.


DARLIA NEW MUSIC VIDEO "STARS ARE ALIGNED"
When I started listening to Darlia, around "Napalm" and "Queen Of Hearts" times here, they were a lot more of a Grunge band. Now they seem very Pop Rock. Not sure if I'm complaining though because I love the instrumental on this song here. The video isn't great. I'm not sure where I stand with this band to be honest, I'll just have to wait for an album or a live performance.


PISSED JEANS NEW MUSIC VIDEO "BORING GIRLS"
An old song with a new video - I like. However, video is super random. Song is super random. But the reason I was ever interested in this song was because there's only one chord throughout. I don't think it's something that I'll ever really get into but I admire Pissed Jeans for what they've done. Have a listen and a watch here.


BRING ME THE HORIZON NEW SINGLE "DROWN"
I LOVE this song. There was a lot of expected controversy as this song sounds 'lighter' than most of the songs on their most recent record Sempiternal but despite the slight change, they still kill it in my opinion. It's still the same Bring Me The Horizon, people need to calm down. Nobody freaked out when D.R.U.G.S. put out "I'm Here To Take The Sky". In my opinion, old bmth fans should embrace this new single here.


ENTER SHIKARI NEW SINGLE "THE LAST GARRISON"
I feel like Enter Shikari should've stopped after "Paddington Frisk". I really hate this song. It sounds like CHVRCHES tried and failed to remix this song. Sadly, they did this to themselves. I'm actually upset that they chose to release a new album - The Mindsweep but who knows, their first three albums still give me a little bit of faith that they might just surprise me. Here's the new single.


GWEN STEFANI NEW MUSIC VIDEO "BABY DON'T LIE"
I forget that Gwen Stefani makes pop music when she's solo, but I really like this song. If I'm honest, I could really imagine Nicole Scherzinger singing it instead or at least her collaborating. However, this is still a very catchy pop song and a big radio hit. In regards to the video, it's great to have the harajuku girls back on my screen. Watch it all here.

In the past few weeks, a peppering of pretty interesting stuff has gone on in the music world and as I've been dormant for a while I'll write about some of the most interesting new things here...

WILLOW SMITH NEW SINGLE "YOUR LOVE V2"
Since her superhit "Whip My Hair" in 2010 I've only really heard a couple of songs from Willow Smith and more about either her strange fashion sense or hair. However, the music related buzz seems to be regenerating because I've heard a lot of praise for this new single here. Sampling The xx's "Basic Space" was a spark of genius on her part - this is an awesome song. Sounding more and more beyond her years, I'm ready to hear this album.


ROYAL BLOOD RELEASE B-SIDE "YOU WANT ME"
One of the biggest bands around right now, the Brighton duo are doing pretty well for themselves aren't they?! After writing about them as a new discovery here earlier this year I didn't expect them to be selling out headline tours in 2 minutes that very same year! Here's their latest b-side (to "Come On Over") from their huge debut record.


SLIPKNOT ANNOUNCE UK TOUR
I was really into Slipknot in my younger days but stopped listening to them for a little while. It wasn't until their recent (and pretty damn awesome) new single "The Devil In I" that I got back into their stuff and remembered just how good they are. Seeing them live will be a huge deal and especially touring their new album .5: The Gray Chapter which drops next week - I'll definitely want to pick up tickets when they come on sale on Friday.


THE WILDE NEW MUSIC VIDEO "UNTIL NEXT TIME, IT'S A ONE TIME THING"
I only recently found out about The Wilde and it was actually because of this song. I'm still not really sure if I like them or not because I don't like this video much at all but the song is really really catchy and the biggest confusion factor right now is that they sound SO much like Don Broco it's crazy. Have a watch of the video here - I think I still have to do some more background research on them.


ROYAL BLOOD NEW MUSIC VIDEO "TEN TONNE SKELETON"
Again, Royal Blood just killing it in music right now. Now they've got this cool new video to a great song from their fantastic debut - here. At one point in the video I did feel like it was a bit Nabil-ish but quickly banished that idea as the video went on. Still a solid video, and actually one of their better ones but I'm waiting for their videos to give me just that little bit more if I'm honest.


SPRING OFFENSIVE ANNOUNCE SPLIT
Okay, what is it with all of my favourite Oxford based bands breaking up before I even get the chance to see them live?! First, Trophy Wife and now Spring Offensive - Foals better not get any ideas! They announced a string of final UK shows but it doesn't actually look like I'll get a chance to attend any of them. It been a good run though - great band, I hope they do well in the rest of their music endeavours.


LIGHT YOU UP NEW SINGLE "ALWAYS WANTING MORE (FEAT. ALAN DAY)"
Birmingham based pop punk band Light You Up are set to release their debut album All We've Ever Known on the 26th of January next year and they've released this new single from it. I love their sound, and this is a hit. Their fans are already loving it and I know that I'm going to end up rinsing it over the next few weeks. Have a listen here.


THE NIGHT VI NEW SINGLE "HEROINE"
The Night VI have really been impressing me lately. I'm still listening to their single "Sienna" from earlier this year - now all I need is an album and I'll be set for months! As usual, The Night VI impress me with their silky vocals and tactful harmonies. Another big hit from the sextet, let's just hope their album hits it out of the park. Get hooked on "Heroine" here.


FALL OUT BOY ANNOUNCE NEW SINGLE "IMMORTALS"
Fall Out Boy have been pretty hit and miss over the past couple of months if I'm honest. Their last single "Centuries" was pretty good, and now they've announced that they are releasing a single for the upcoming Disney film - Big Hero 6. I just hope that this isn't another a miss for them. You can hear a snippet of the song in the trailer for the movie here.


ED SHEERAN NEW MUSIC VIDEO "THINKING OUT LOUD"
I've made my disappointment with Ed Sheeran no secret but recently it would seem that he's starting to win me over. All of the singles that I've heard from his album X so far have been good and as much as I try fighting it, I think I might eventually begin to be impressed with his music and maybe even enjoy it! Have a listen and a watch of his latest single here.

It's insane to think that a festival like Glastonbury could all be over in just three days! I almost feel bad for sleeping because there was so much to see and do in just 72 hours. Either way, it was the most incredible few days that I could've asked for an all I can say now is, roll on 2015!!

THE PREATURES
Still sad that I missed Darlia's performance before this but nonetheless, I'd never heard of this band before I was standing at the barrier for their set, so I really didn't know what to expect. Despite their lead singer seeming a bit try-hard at times throughout the set, they had some really really good songs and great band chemistry. An enjoyable set overall and I will definitely be keeping an ear out for these Aussies.

LONELY THE BRAVE
A name that I'd been hearing quite a bit recently but had not yet checked out, so I was intrigued to see what they could do as a live band. A huge contrast to the more laid-back Preatures but this wasn't necessarily a bad thing. I did find myself looking at my watch towards the end of the set but the majority of the set was alright. Not sure if I'll keep up with them much but I definitely don't dislike them.

GEORGE EZRA
Probably one of the biggest shocks of the weekend. First of all the name George Ezra did sound familiar but nothing sprung to mind when I heard it. When the young Bristolian stepped on stage looking a little sheepish, I was very taken aback by the beautiful, deep voice that came from him. His set was quality and actually fun - the tent was absolutely packed. I look forward to listening to his debut album released last week!

THE KOOKS
The "surprise" set of the day. I hadn't heard much of their music post-"Naive" days and I hadn't really heard anything good about it thus far. When they opened up with some of their new R&B-influenced material, I have to say I wasn't impressed. The "diggity"'s threw me off a little bit. However, when they played their latest single "Around Town" I changed my mind - really good song. The rest of the set followed suit and overall it was a great set.

DOLLY PARTON
Although many people questioned her name on the bill, Dolly managed to pull in the largest crowd of the entire weekend and played a genuinely beautiful set on the Pyramid Stage. Her interesting, endearing and quite hilarious country anecdotes really made the set feel more intimate.She played through some old favourites and some new songs finally ending with a cover of "I Will Always Love You", which I'm sure brought some to tears. Definite standout set from the weekend.

ED SHEERAN 
If you've read my blog before, you probably already know that I don't care too much for Ed Sheeran or his music. I didn't even want to be at this set because Bombay Bicycle Club were on at the same time. However, in order to get a good spot for The Black Keys I made a compromise. Thankfully he is better live than on record. Despite him only having his acoustic guitar and no band on main stage, he still managed to entertain the crowd and the riff to "Sing" was in my head for a good while afterwards.

THE BLACK KEYS
Even though I've seen them before, this time was better than the last. The songs from their latest album sounded good but none of their songs hit me as hard as the ones from El Camino - definitely my favourite album of theirs. "Little Black Submarines" was a huge highlight. A band full of geniuses and an afternoon full of glorious music.

CHANCE THE RAPPER 
My friend had been raving about Chance for at least the last five months and stupidly I didn't make time to give him a listen but I'm so glad that I made it to his set because it opened my eyes more than Spotify could have. Backed by an amazing band (kudos to his Musical Director) and his contagious charisma he put on an awesome show and made everyone feel the love. I'll need to listen to my friend more often.

DISCLOSURE
I know, I know! I must be insane to miss Kasabian's closing headline set but there was reasoning behind it I promise! Since I saw Kasabian headline Reading a couple of years ago and hadn't seen Disclosure yet, I opted for the latter and I'd do it again. Beautiful way to end the weekend - Disclosure bringing out almost all of their album feature artists and ending with Sam Smith singing the beautiful "Latch". The lights were magnificent - flares were lit and shapes were cut - electric set!

Midway through June now and we've already missed a few potentially great albums but I'll go through them as well as letting you know what's lined up for the second half of the month...

ONES WE'VE MISSED