Hyundai Mercury Prize 2020: Album of the Year

A special programme celebrating the 12 albums making up the shortlist for the much-coveted Mercury Prize 2020. In what has been an unparalleled year in music, Lauren Laverne guides viewers through each of the records selected on the eve of the eagerly anticipated announcement of the winner.

This year’s shortlist is:

Composer, producer and performer Anna Meredith’s second offering FIBS.

Charli XCX’s how i’m feeling now, an album created in 39 days during lockdown.

Pop superstar Dua Lipa’s number 1 Future Nostalgia.

Producer, singer and drummer Georgia’s hymn to the dancefloor Seeking Thrills.

East Londoner Kano’s emotionally and politically charged Hoodies All Summer.

The first record in five years from Newcastle band Lanterns on the Lake titled Spook the Herd.

Laura Marling’s beautiful Song for Our Daughter, which gives the singer her fourth Mercury nod.

The soulful sounds of Michael Kiwanuka’s self-titled KIWANUKA.

South London jazz drummer Moses Boyd’s solo debut Dark Matter.

Brighton four-piece Porridge Radio’s Every Bad.

Indie outfit Sports Team’s energetic debut Deep Down Happy.

Glastonbury headliner Stormzy’s chart-topping Heavy Is the Head.

The show will reflect on each of the albums through individual performances, including seven specially filmed in music venues around the UK.

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