RAYE
Nominated for: Album of the Year (WINNER), Artist of the Year (WINNER), Song of the Year (WINNER), Best New Artist (WINNER), Pop Act, R&B Act (WINNER)
My 21st Century Blues - My 21st Century Blues is the debut album from British singer and songwriter RAYE. The album lyrically explores various themes including RAYE's own struggles with body dysmorphia and anxiety. Despite the darker themes, the album manages to offer floor-filling dance hits along with a blend of soul, hip hop and blues. Raw, emotional and therapeutic, RAYE is sensational and brave, providing a deep insight into her life.
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Gabriels
Nominated for: International Group of the Year
Angels & Queens - Following on from their critically acclaimed debut Angels & Queens Part 1, three-piece band Gabriels release Part 2. A truly exhilarating listen, producer Sounwave stated "we wanted to push the boundaries sonically that matched the intense and vulnerable feelings of each song." Frontman Jacob Lusk delivers each track with such intensity and beauty. Through thirteen majestic songs, Angels & Queens tells a compelling story. It’s clear that with charismatic vocalist Lusk at the helm, the band are destined for big things.
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Little Simz
Nominated for: Album of the Year, Artist of the Year, Hip Hop/Grime Act
No Thank You - Following on from her award-winning Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, Little Simz is unstoppable on her latest offering, No Thank You. She displays real depth, with strong basslines and classical strings across ten fierce tracks. The British rapper deals with important subject matter, displaying her vulnerable side and recounting her struggles. Always evolving and innovative, with her punchy and powerful storytelling, Little Simz has truly mastered her craft.
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Young Fathers
Nominated for: Album of the Year, Group of the Year, Alternative/Rock Act
Heavy Heavy - On the soulful fourth studio album by Scottish indie band Young Fathers, the indie trio from Edinburgh expand on their unique sound. Pushing a real mix of genres, the album is warm and sincere, providing strong hooks, skittish drums and pulsing beats. Although the album is brief, with just 10 tracks, Heavy Heavy is passionate, intimate and a welcome addition to their already impressive catalogue.
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Paramore
Nominated for: International Group of the Year
This Is Why - Paramore are far closer to their pop-punk roots on This Is Why, their triumphant sixth studio album. With influences from Bloc Party and Foals, the Tennessee rockers are back with a bang on their first album in six years. The album features punchy drums, jagged guitars and heavy rock riffs, with some powerful vocals from Williams. It’s a shift in musical direction that will be welcomed by the fans and leave them intrigued for whats still to come.
Listen on: Spotify Tidal Apple Music Qobuz