Nordic prize nominees unveiled

The Nordic Music Prize has revealed the twelve candidates in the running to claim the award for Best Nordic Album 2012.

Inspired by the English and Irish Mercury Music Award, the Nordic Music Prize was introduced in 2010 and in alternate years, the prize is awarded to a score by a living Nordic composer or to a musical ensemble.

The prize of €20,000 and the title ‘Best Nordic Album 2011’ will be presented during the by:Larm conference on February 16th 2012, to one of twelve possible candidates.

Many are musical veterans, with the eighth albums of Ane Brun (It All Starts With One), Gus Gus’ (Arabian Horse), and Björk(Biophilia) all in contest. Pitted against them are debuts by the likes of Siinai (Olympic Games) and Iceage (New Brigade).

Andres Lokko, a cultural journalist who features on the Jury this year, comments that the “jury is comprised of some of Europe's most respected music lovers, who'll look past the hype and examine the music from an entirely qualitative and creative perspective.” Other jury members include Laurence Bell, owner of Domino records; Jonathan Galkin, founder and owner of DFA Records; and Zach Kelly, music journalist and critic.

Full list of nominees:
Ane Brun – It All Starts With One
Lykke Li – Wounded Rhymes
Rubik – Solar
Gus Gus – Arabian Horse
Malk De Koijn – Toback To The Frontline
Siinai – Olympic Games
Björk - Biophilia
Iceage – New Brigade
Montée – Renditions of You
Anna Järvinen – Anna Själv Tredje
Goran Kajfes – X/Y
The Field – Looping State of Mind