Plan B’s Ill Manors and Jessie Ware’s Devotion are among the albums nominated for the 2012 Barclaycard Mercury Prize.
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While Plan B flies the flag for east London, Ware is joined on the nomination list by fellow south Londoners The Maccabees and Lianne Le Havas, while north London is represented by Michael Kiwanuka.
The London quintet face competition from LPs by Django Django, Alt-J, Ben Howard, Field Music, Richard Hawley, Roller Trio and Sam Lee to win the prestigious award.
Commenting on her nomination, Ware claimed she already felt like a winner.
She said: “This is cool. This is wicked! I’m happy. I feel like I’m winning already, with the nomination. I don’t know what I’ll do if I win. I’m happy just going to an award ceremony!”
Simon Frith, Chair of Judges, claims the line-up represents an “exhilarating soundtrack to life”.
He said: “This year’s Barclaycard Mercury Prize shortlist showcase a wonderful variety of musical voices, emotions and ambitions.
“There are eight debut albums on the list and four albums from more established artists. The sheer range of music here celebrates the abiding ability of British musicians to find new ways to explore traditional themes of love and loss while making an exhilarating soundtrack for life in 2012.”
Last year PJ Harvey won with her album Let England Shake, beating competition from Katy B and Adele.
The winner will be announced at the Roundhouse in London on 1 November.
