Mercury Music Prize 2023; Arctic Monkeys, Shygirl and Young Fathers up for 2023 prize

The 2023 Mercury Music Prize, the annual music award in the UK that recognizes and celebrates the best album from British and Irish artists, spanning various genres, based on artistic achievement and cultural impact, has now had its shortlist revealed, with Arctic Monkey's latest work, "The Car," part of the twelve strong field. The announcement was made earlier today on Tom Ravenscroft's BBC Radio 6 show and features some previous winners and inclusions from Mercury Music Prize shortlists of yesteryear.

Alongside the Sheffield outfit, nods have been awarded to Shygirl, Fred Again..., Loyle Carner and Young Fathers, who won the Mercury prize back in 2014 for their album, "Dead," in what was considered a shock result given the field that year included R&B artist FKA Twigs and Blur frontman Damon Albarn’s first solo venture. Should Young Fathers win the 2023 prize, they would join PJ Harvey as the only two times winner of the prestigious award.

The Mercury Music Prize was established in 1992 by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and the British Association of Record Dealers (BARD) to recognize and celebrate the best British and Irish albums of the year across various genres. Unlike many other music awards that focus on commercial success or popularity, the Mercury Prize is unique in its approach. It aims to champion artistic integrity, originality, and creativity in music.

The judging panel consists of music journalists, industry experts, and musicians who are asked to evaluate the shortlisted albums based on their artistic merit, innovation, and cultural impact and covers a wide range of genres, from rock and pop to jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music. It has gained a reputation for recognizing albums that may not have achieved mainstream success but have made a significant impact in the music industry and showcase exceptional talent.

Last year's winner, Little Simz, saw an increased surge in interest after she scooped the Mercury Music Prize, with this year's shortlist looking to capture the same attention. This year's ceremony will take place at the Evetum Apollo in London on September 7 2023, with tickets to the event available now.

The full Mercury Music Prize 2023 shortlist:

- Arctic Monkeys - "The Car"

- Ezra Collective - "Where I’m Meant to Be"

- Fred again.. - "Actual Life 3 (January 1 – September 9 2022)"

- J Hus - "Beautiful And Brutal Yard"

- Jessie Ware - "That! Feels Good!"

- Jockstrap - "I Love You Jennifer B"

- Lankum - "False Lankum"

- Loyle Carner - "hugo"

- Olivia Dean - "Messy"

- RAYE - "My 21st Century Blues"

- Shygirl - "Nymph"

- Young Fathers - "Heavy Heavy"