There is increased Irish interest in the Mercury Music Prize again this year, with Dublin's Villagers among the nominees.
Villagers, the new project from former The Immediate frontman Conor J O'Brien, have been nominated for their debut album, 'Becoming a Jackal'.
Also nominated are: I Am Kloot ('Sky At Night'), Foals ('Total Life Forever'), Laura Marling ('I Speak Because I Can'), The xx ('xx'), Dizzee Rascal ('Tongue N' Cheek'), Corinne Bailey Rae ('The Sea'), Wild Beasts ('Two Dancers'), Biffy Clyro ('Only Revolutions'), Kit Downes Trio ('Golden'), Paul Weller ('Wake up the Nation') and Mumford & Sons ('Sigh No More').
The award is given to the best album by a British or Irish act released in the last 12 months.
The winner will be announced on 7 September.
