The J Awards is gaining a reputation for earmarking the best talent this country has to offer. In previous years, bands such as Wolfmother, Hilltop Hoods, The Panics, The Presets, Sarah Blasko, Tame Impala have gone on to make a significant impact both domestically and overseas.
The J Awards include Australian Album of the Year, Australian Music Video of the Year and Unearthed Artist of the Year. Nominees for all three awards are deliberated over and chosen by judges from triple j music experts, including the Music Director, Program Director and triple j presenters.
This year’s Awards will be selected on quality and what defined that year in music; the awards are widely recognised as a stamp of excellence. Developing emerging Australian artists is a key component of what triple j is and the J Awards embody that philosophy. An Australian Album of the Year is selected for being an outstanding musical work of art; for its creativity, musicianship and its contribution to Australian music. All sounds and styles are considered and the music on the album is the only thing we take into account.
The First 3 nominee’s to be chosen are:
Architecture and Helsinki – Moment Bends
Recorded over a 2-year period in the band’s home studio, the group’s fourth album showcases their elliptical take of pop music. It’s big, effervescent, full of instantly catchy and contagious songs. They take the best parts of ’80s synth pop and work them into songs which sound modern, fresh and fun.
Art Vs Science – The Experiment
Unearthed by triple j in 2008; it was a long wait for the full length debut from the Sydney trio – and boy did they deliver. The Experiment is a collection of big, loud, banging dance anthems mixed in with some damn fine pop songs. This dynamic album shows that they’re a savvy band that know how to get you dancing.
Drapht – The Life of Riley
Right from the first track this album instantly engages you with its meticulously crafted lyrics and killer hooks. The bold release from the Perth MC explores themes of adolescence, growing up, nostalgia and partying in Bali. An album of fantastic light and shade, it really showcases Drapht’s skill as a wordsmith. From start to finish, this is a record packed to the hilt with hip hop gems.
More Nominee’s will be announced in the coming months.
