Have you heard of the AMP?
One of Australia’s most prestigious (and virtually unknown) music awards is the Australian Music Prize – where an Aussie band or individual’s album has attracted the attention of some Australian music’s most knowledgable and experienced performers, promoters and professionals alike. The AMP gives the winning artist(s) a $30 000 cash grant, as well as $30 000 worth of publicity, and a whole lot more coverage and opportunity. Previous winners include my personal favourites the Drones, the Mess Hall, Augie March and most recently, Eddy Currant Suppression Ring. 
The 2009 AMP shortlist was announced in February, and by golly there are some great artists. It’s going to be an interesting outcome:
‘Privileged Woes’ by Oh Mercy
‘As Day Follows Night’ by Sarah Blasko
‘Kid Sam LP’ by Kid Sam
‘Black Across The Field’ by Lucie Thorne
‘Secrets And Lies’ by Bertie Blackman
‘For The Birds’ by The Mess Hall
‘Spitshine’ by Urthboy
‘Call Signs’ by Black Cab
‘Wonder’ by Lisa Mitchell
Stay tuned for more details about the winners coming up in the next couple of weeks….
photos courtesy of AMP