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Knats express surprise at Mercury Prize shortlist nomination
Developed over time first seen 4 months ago
Newcastle jazz group Knats said their Mercury Prize shortlist nomination felt “absolutely mental”, expressing surprise at the recognition for their debut album. The nomination is significant because it places the band among the year’s leading British and Irish recording artists and may introduce their music to a wider audience.
Knats were shortlisted for their self-titled debut, which blends jazz with hip-hop, soul and electronic influences. The Mercury Prize is an annual award for outstanding albums by British or Irish artists, with 12 records typically selected for its shortlist.
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In short
- Knats were surprised by their Mercury Prize shortlist nomination.
- Their debut album blends jazz, hip-hop, soul and electronic music.
- The prize recognises leading British and Irish albums.
How this story developed
- 4 months ago The nomination was reported to relate to Knats’ 2024 debut, whose live shows and UK jazz-scene collaborations have helped build the group’s following.
- 4 months ago Newcastle jazz band Knats said they were astonished to be shortlisted for the Mercury Prize for their genre-blending self-titled debut album.
Explained simply
The Mercury Prize is a major annual music award for albums by artists from the UK and Ireland. A panel of music industry judges selects a shortlist, usually of 12 albums, from across different styles of music.
Knats are a jazz group from Newcastle upon Tyne. Their first album blends jazz with influences including hip-hop, soul and electronic music, reflecting the way many newer jazz musicians work across genres.
A place on the Mercury Prize shortlist can bring an artist wider attention through media coverage, live performances and new listeners. The prize is intended to recognise the quality of an album rather than sales figures or chart position.
Coverage · 2 sources
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Originally published by Far Out as “Knats react to “absolutely mental” Mercury Prize nomination”.