Yes, it is that time of year for the baffling and somewhat odd Mercury Prize. Nominees for this year's award were announced today, and here they are:

Arctic Monkeys – Favourite Worst Nightmare
Klaxons – Myths Of The Near Future
Amy Winehouse – Back To Black
Maps – We Can Create
The View – Hats Off To The Buskers
Jamie T – Panic Prevention
Dizzee Rascal – Maths & English
Bat For Lashes – Fur And Gold
Young Knives – Voices of Animals And Men
Fionn Regan – The End Of History
New Young Pony Club – Fantastic Playroom
Basquiat Strings – Basquiat Strings

I have to admit, I'm only heard of six of the nominees (Monkeys, Klaxons, Amy, Maps, The View and Dizzee). Anybody with more know-how have any comments?

Two former winners grace the list (Arctic Monkeys and Dizzee Rascal) and the Arctic Monkeys brought home the award last year.