The Ulster Hall was the venue for another massive celebration of the collective efforts of our artists, organisations and individuals that make up the Northern Ireland music scene.
The most coveted prize on the night, the Album of the Year was taken home by Robocobra Quartet for their second album, Living Isn’t Easy. It was selected from a shortlist of 12 albums by a panel of independent judges on the night (it may or may not have included yours truly…)
It is jazz that engages a wider audience without compromising their sound. Delivering complex musings on big yet personal issues and making an album that deserves to be listened to in its entirety rather than in small, disconnected snippets.
Single of the Year was decided by public vote and overwhelmingly decided that it should be taken home by North Coast native Ferna with the stunning ‘Wasting‘. Vindication for her re-branded image and sound after previously performing and releasing under her own name.
While The Florentinas snapped up the BBC ATL Artist of the Year award which should set them up for a big 2023 with more new music and plenty of touring on the horizon.
Junk Drawer joined The Wood Burning Savages in the exclusive two awards in one night club by walking away with Best Live Act of the Year and also Best Video of the Year for ‘Railroad King’. Well-deserved for a truly unique video for an infectious single.
The night also featured recognition for screen composer Sheridan Tongue who was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Music award and Barry Devlin, recipient to the Oh Yeah Legend Award. It was an emotional evening for Barry as the night also marked the final live appearance by The Horslips. One which the audience in attendance thoroughly enjoyed.
Charlotte Dryden from Oh Yeah said; “What a night and brilliant showcase! I am so proud of the Northern Irish music community. Well done to all the winners. A huge amount of work goes into an event like this and we are committed to giving our talent the best possible platform through this event. That’s why it is so reassuring that our supporters and sponsors understand this and get behind this event. Music contributed £345 million to the NI economy pre covid and with the right conditions we can exceed that post covid. Challenges remain, but just imagine what we could do with the right investment. It’s why we need to support local music.”
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