Who Will Win the Mercury Prize: Pulp, CMAT, or Wolf Alice?

Wolf Alice has made history by becoming the only band to be nominated for all four of their albums in the Mercury Prize's 34-year history. Their latest nomination is for "The Clearing," which showcases a blend of 1970s soft rock influences. This year's list features a diverse array of artists, including Pulp, CMAT, and Sam Fender, with the awards ceremony set for 16 October in Newcastle.

Last updated: 07 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Wolf Alice is the first band to receive Mercury Prize nominations for all four albums.
• This year's nominees include other notable acts like Pulp and Sam Fender.
• The awards will be held in Newcastle, breaking the London-centric tradition.
• CMAT and Emma-Jean Thackray have delivered powerful albums reflecting personal experiences.
• Pa Salieu's first mixtape post-incarceration offers a philosophical perspective on heritage and identity.

Wolf Alice's Historic Achievement

British band Wolf Alice has achieved a remarkable feat in the music industry by being nominated for the Mercury Prize with all four of their albums. This unprecedented accomplishment highlights their consistent quality and evolution as artists. Their most recent album, "The Clearing," has been described as a soft rock journey reminiscent of the 1970s, showcasing their ability to blend genres while remaining true to their roots.

The Nominees: A Diverse Selection

The shortlist for the 2025 Mercury Prize features a variety of artists, showcasing the rich tapestry of British and Irish music today. Notable nominees alongside Wolf Alice include:

• Pulp: The iconic band returns with "More," their first album in 24 years, which encapsulates their signature sound with contemporary themes.
• CMAT: Known for her sharp lyrical observations, her album "Euro-Country" reflects personal experiences, including social commentary and witty humour.
• Sam Fender: His album "People Watching" tackles themes of working-class struggle and loss, resonating with many listeners.
• Fontaines DC: With "Romance," the band explores new sonic territories while maintaining their powerful Irish roots.
• FKA Twigs: Her album "Eusexua" blends abstract sounds with themes of self-discovery and raw emotion.

The Importance of the Mercury Prize

The Mercury Prize is an esteemed accolade that celebrates the best British or Irish album released in the past year. Its significance lies not only in promoting diverse musical talent but also in challenging the dominance of London-centric narratives within the UK music scene. The 2025 ceremony will take place in Newcastle, marking a shift aimed at inclusivity and wider representation.

Notable Omissions and Surprises

While the shortlist is impressive, it has sparked discussions about notable exclusions. Former winners like Little Simz and Ezra Collective, alongside The Cure's much-anticipated comeback album, did not make the cut. This raises questions about the selection process and the evolving landscape of popular music.

Individual Album Highlights

CMAT's "Euro-Country"

CMAT's latest album, "Euro-Country," is a vibrant blend of personal narratives and social commentary. Her witty lyrics tackle topics ranging from the Irish financial crisis to light-hearted rants about celebrity chefs. This album showcases her unique voice in the music industry, described as both smart and subversive.

Emma-Jean Thackray's "Weirdo"

Emma-Jean Thackray's "Weirdo" is a deeply personal album, born out of grief following the sudden loss of her long-term partner. The album's jazz-funk influences create a cathartic experience, as Thackray seeks to navigate her new reality. It serves as a testament to her resilience and artistry.

FKA Twigs' "Eusexua"

FKA Twigs’ "Eusexua" is an experimental effort that aims to explore the feelings associated with spontaneity and raw emotion. The album features a mix of club tracks and abstract soundscapes, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the music. However, some critics argue that the precision of her vision occasionally hampers its spontaneity.

Fontaines DC's "Romance"

With "Romance," Fontaines DC takes their signature sound and infuses it with new life, inspired by both Japanese culture and personal experiences. The album's themes of existential dread and modern disillusionment resonate deeply, showcasing their growth as a band.

Pa Salieu's "Afrikan Alien"

Pa Salieu’s "Afrikan Alien" marks a significant return to form after his time away from the music scene. His reflective lyrics, discussing identity and heritage, are paired with infectious Afrobeat rhythms, creating a vibrant listening experience that signals his growth as an artist.

PinkPantheress' "Fancy That"

PinkPantheress’ "Fancy That" is a playful departure from her earlier introspective work. This 20-minute mixtape is a whirlwind of energy and fun, capturing the essence of youthful exuberance and party culture. It highlights her ability to evolve and experiment within her music.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead

The 2025 Mercury Prize nominations signify a pivotal moment in the UK music scene, showcasing an array of talent that spans genres and backgrounds. As the awards ceremony approaches on 16 October, anticipation builds around who will take home the coveted prize. Wolf Alice's historic nomination is a testament to their enduring impact on music, but the diverse shortlist ensures that any winner will represent the rich dynamics of contemporary British and Irish music.

As the event unfolds, it will be interesting to see how these artists continue to shape the landscape of music in the UK and beyond. Will the trend of inclusivity and diversity continue to grow within the industry? Only time will tell. #MercuryPrize2025 #WolfAlice #UKMusic

FAQs

What is the Mercury Prize?

The Mercury Prize is an annual music award that recognises the best British or Irish album released in the past year, highlighting diverse talent across genres.

When will the Mercury Prize 2025 ceremony take place?

The Mercury Prize 2025 ceremony is scheduled for 16 October 2025 and will be held in Newcastle.

Who are the notable nominees for the Mercury Prize 2025?

Notable nominees include Wolf Alice, Pulp, CMAT, Sam Fender, Fontaines DC, and FKA Twigs, among others, showcasing a range of musical styles and themes.

What is unique about Wolf Alice's nomination?

Wolf Alice has made history by being the only band to receive nominations for all four of their albums in the Mercury Prize's 34-year history.

What themes are explored in Sam Fender's album "People Watching"?

Sam Fender's "People Watching" addresses themes of working-class struggles, loss, and the human spirit in the face of adversity, reflecting personal and societal issues.