How’s this for a confidence booster? Just about to embark on the intimidating journey of recording their sophomore album, the Klaxons received a shiny vote of support from a panel of some of the UK’s top music heads: the 2007 Mercury Prize. Awarded annually since 1992, the Mercury Prize has become something of a crown jewel for young acts seeking added buzz and exposure. You might have heard of recent winners Franz Ferdinand and the Arctic Monkeys, who were one of the runners up this year.
In addition to the glorified hood ornament trophy, the Klaxons have received 20,000 pounds in prize money ($40,250 in Yankee figures) and, according to the NME, a delirious increase in record sales for their debut album, Myths of the Near Future. The judging panel called the record “an ecstatic musical adventure,” which sure beats “new ravey” as an endorsement.
In addition to the Arctic Monkeys (who are now officially so last year), the Klaxons beat out Amy Winehouse, New Young Pony Club, and Dizzee Rascal (another past winner) for the honor. Oh yes, and did we mention that the Klaxons are invading America?
Sounds like a great sci-fi flick...
September
23 – Boston, Mass. @ Paradise Rock Club*
24 – New York, N.Y. @ Madison Square Garden (w/ Bjork)
26 – Los Angeles, Calif. @ Henry Fonda Theatre*
28 – San Francisco, Calif. @ The Fillmore*
30 – Seattle, Wash. @ The Showbox*
October
1 – Vancouver, B.C. @ Commodore Ballroom*
4 – Boulder, Col. @ Fox Theatre
5 – Lawrence, Kansas @ The Bottleneck
6 – Chicago, Ill. @ Vic Theatre**
8 – Washington D.C. @ 9.30 Club**
9 – Philadelphia, Pa. @ The Fillmore**
10 – Toronto, Ontario @ Opera House Concert Venue**
* w/ Mystery Jets
** w/ Sh*t Disco
Related Links:
Klaxons.net
Mercury Prize Home
Past Mercury Nominees & Winners
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