Four days until winner of the Scottish Album of the Year Award revealed
Four days to go until the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award reveals the winner of ultimate title and stunning trophy.
Article Source: The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award
Last Updated: 19 October 2021 12:23
With only FOUR days to go until Scotland’s national music prize reveals the winner of the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award, fans look ahead to this year’s live Ceremony which will be a celebration of the past 10 years of the award, as well as what will be a significant moment of reunion for Scotland’s music industry after a turbulent time apart.
2021’s Shortlist have chosen Scottish albums and artists who have impacted their own careers, in a nod to The SAY Award’s 10th birthday and its own cultural impact. With the likes of Joesef choosing Glasvegas, Lizzie Reid picking Rachel Sermanni and The Snuts choosing The View, the list is a true celebration of the collaborative nature of Scotland’s music scene. See below for choices and quotes from this year’s Shortlist including Arab Strap, Rachel Newton, The Ninth Wave and more.
The SAY Award have also announced the performing line-up for this year’s Ceremony, set to take place in Edinburgh’s Usher Hall on Saturday 23rd October, 2020’s winner Nova will open the show. Winning the prestigious award in a year like no other, Nova is set to take to the stage alongside other former SAY Award winners Sacred Paws, as well as rising talent Hamish Hawk PLUS special performances from surprise guests to celebrate 10 years of The SAY Award. BBC Radio Scotland presenters Nicola Meighan and Vic Galloway will host the Ceremony, which will also honour this year’s Modern Scottish Classic winner - Frightened Rabbit’s ‘The Midnight Organ Fight’.
And finally, brand new for 2021, this year’s Sound of Young Scotland Finalists have been announced as; Alex Amor, Cameron Roxburgh, Jen Mac, kitti and LVRA. Chosen by a panel of former SAY Award nominees from this year’s eligible applicants, the winner will be announced at The SAY Award Ceremony, taking home up to £5,000 to facilitate the creation of their debut album, plus 500 vinyl pressings of the finished record.
In alphabetical order, the 10 albums Shortlisted for the coveted Scottish Album of the Year title and final prize of £20,000 are:
The SAY Award Shortlist 2021
AiiTee – ‘Love Don’t Fall’
Arab Strap – ‘As Days Get Dark’
Biffy Clyro – ‘A Celebration of Endings’
Joesef – ‘Does It Make You Feel Good?’
Lizzie Reid – ‘Cubicle’
Mogwai – ‘As The Love Continues’
Rachel Newton – ‘To The Awe’
Stanley Odd – ‘STAY ODD’
The Ninth Wave – ‘Happy Days!’
The Snuts – ‘W.L.’
Buy your tickets HERE
As the final countdown to The SAY Award Ceremony begins, some of this year’s Shortlisted artists took the time to reflect on standout Scottish albums and artists that influenced and shaped their careers.
Arab Strap said: “Am I allowed David Byrne? A bit tenuous (and obvious) maybe, but I was obsessed with Talking Heads from about the age of 13 onwards. Other than that, I remember seeing The Proclaimers on Top of the Pops, singing in their own accents as though it was perfectly normal. The only other time I'd seen that must've been the 1982 World Cup Squad with John Gordon Sinclair, so it was quite an ear-opener, and I still listen to their first two albums all the time.”
Joesef said: “Probably Glasvegas and their debut album. Being from the East End, it was so strange to hear the things I’d grown up surrounded by reflected in music for the first time. I was only thirteen at the time but I remember hearing songs like ‘Daddys Gone’ and ‘Ice Cream Van’ and having quite a visceral experience in the kitchen listening to it on a CD player. Their influence lies in James’ matter of fact style of writing and delivery, as well as their guitar tones and reverbs, I think that's definitely something that's seeped into my music.”
Lizzie Reid said: “Discovering Rachel Sermanni for me was quite a revelation. As a huge Joni Mitchell and Laura Marling fan, it was nice to discover someone from here that was making music of that ilk. She also knows how to captivate an audience and hold them in the palm of her hand, which is inspirational to me.”
Rachel Newton said: “One of the records that has influenced and inspired me most is Martyn Bennett's album 'Grit'. It's a brave, emotional, genre-defying album that mixes the modern and the ancient with a deep, natural understanding that is exhilarating to behold.”
Stanley Odd, Dave aka Solareye said: “For an artist that has influenced us, I think it has to be Loki. I could pick any number of Loki albums that are inspirational, from 'Summer Knows a Darker Shade of Grey' to 'Trigger Warning', the acerbic razor-sharp cultural commentary, dissection of complex social constructs and brutal straight-up top-tier braggadocious wordplay are mind-blowing and energising. Dunt would have 'Trying to Sell a Bridge', with Konchis’ production, at the top of his list as one that inspires him. Throughout Loki’s back catalogue he pushes boundaries, creates interconnected collections of songs tied to a wider narrative and challenges his audience. Each release has me drawn into a world brought to life by the metaphors and imagery, set in motion by the plotlines, and makes me want to be a better emcee.”
The Ninth Wave, Haydn said: “The Twilight Sad have probably been the biggest influence on me as a songwriter, mainly because their songs have taught me to be more at ease with what I actually want to say in the songs that I write. There’s a starkness to so much of their music, especially in the lyrics, and that sort of brutal truthfulness got me hooked on them from the first time I listened to their music.”
The Snuts, Callum said: “Hard to choose just one if I’m honest! I feel as a smaller nation, our output into the world has always been massive culturally and musically. The View’s debut record was a massive one for us, and their sound - in the same way The Libertines did, made us fall in love with scrappy guitars. Glasvegas debut was one of the first records I remember listening to cover to cover with no skips. Every tune just connected. Then there’s Franz Ferdinand, Biffy, Jesus & Mary Chain, Lewis Capaldi - the list goes on.”
CELEBRATING A MODERN SCOTTISH CLASSIC AND THE SOUND OF YOUNG SCOTLAND
2021’s SAY Award Longlist also voted for the inaugural Modern Scottish Classic Award, recognising an album from Scotland’s past that still inspires music being made today, with the winner chosen as Frightened Rabbit - ‘The Midnight Organ Fight’. The album, which is cherished by many, will be recognised on the night of The SAY Award Ceremony.
2021’s Sound of Young Scotland Award finalists are today announced as Alex Amor, Cameron Roxburgh, Jen Mac, kitti and LVRA. The new award, supported by Key Production, Youth Music and the Youth Music Initiative, aims to drive the future of Scotland’s music scene by annually awarding a young, emerging artist. The winner will receive up to £5,000 funding to cover costs relating to the production of their debut album, such as producing, studio rentals, engineers, mixing, mastering, recording expenses and more. They will also receive 500 vinyl pressings of the finished record, along with a bespoke art prize from The SAY Award Design Commission.
Alex Amor said, “I am incredibly honoured to be nominated for the Sound of Young Scotland Award. Each year, I am blown away by the abundance of stellar albums nominated for The SAY award, and it would be a dream come true to be given funding towards my debut album, hopefully following in the footsteps of the contemporaries I look up to.”
Cameron Roxburgh said, “We are ecstatic to be finalists for the Sound of Young Scotland Award. Both Callum and I have been following The SAY Award for many years and we simply cannot wait to attend the event, and celebrate Scottish music with so many others.”
Jen Mac said, “I’m genuinely lost for words being a finalist for the Sound of Young Scotland Award. For me, this is an opportunity to represent my home region of Dumfries and Galloway, a region that I believe is often overlooked and underrepresented in the national music scene.”
kitti said, “I am absolutely over the moon to be a finalist for this wonderful award! To even be in the running for being considered for The Sound of Young Scotland Award is fabulous and I definitely feel like my career is headed in the right direction!”
Rachel Lu, aka LVRA said, “This project is a huge part of me, so to have it recognised by such an acclaimed group of judges feels incredible. I am super grateful to the SAY team for giving young Scottish musicians a platform and a voice.”
Sponsored Links
Latest Glasgow News
Topgolf launches exclusive experience inspired by The Fantastic Four: First Steps
The limited-time experience is the first-of-its-kind at Topgolf Glasgow in collaboration with Marvel Studios!
READ MORE
SAY Award opens submissions for eligible albums
Scotland’s national music prize – the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award – has opened submissions for 2025’s £20,000 prize.
READ MORE
Zander Murray to host Pride events in Glasgow
Scotland's first openly gay professional footballer is set to headline Pride events at The Social Hub Glasgow.
READ MORE
Glasgow Fort unveils 20th anniversary artwork created by local school pupils
Artwork to celebrate the centre's 20th anniversary was officially unveiled at Glasgow Fort last week.
READ MORE
Glaschu announces two further exclusive dinners with chef Brian Maule
Glaschu, one of Glasgow's most established fine dining restaurants, will join forces once again with acclaimed chef, Brian Maule for two nights in August.
READ MORE
Cineworld announces 1 pound Family Films all summer long
Cineworld has today announced £1 Family Films, running every week from July 25, so that families can be more childish together all summer long.
READ MORE
Great value summer holiday activities at Dobbies Garden Centres
This summer, gather the whole family and head to Dobbies Garden Centres for a day of fun-filled activities that will keep costs down.
READ MORE
The Big Sunday on Kelvin Way: A Brand New Street Festival for 2025
This Sunday sees the arrival of a brand-new community event for 2025: The Big Sunday on Kelvin Way!
READ MORE
Take Me Somewhere Festival unveils 3 powerful performances ahead of full festival announcement
Three powerful performances by internationally acclaimed artists Dan Daw, Cherish Menzo and collective MEXA are revealed, in anticipation of full festival announcement on Tuesday 29th July.
READ MORE
Free travel for Armed Forces Day
First Bus offers free travel to all current serving members, veterans and cadets for Armed Forces Day celebrations across its network.
READ MORE
FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores returns on 5th and 6th July
Summerfest, the FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores, is back on the 5th and 6th of July with lots of things to see and do!
READ MORE
Play more, spend less at Topgolf Glasgow this Summer
Topgolf Glasgow is dialling up the fun with a fresh range of value offers launching throughout the summer, helping players maximise their experience by giving them more for less!
READ MORE
11 year old Rachel Ronnie to take centre stage with the launch of a Busk Stop at Buchanan Galleries
Aspiring young buskers are invited to step into the spotlight and perform to hundreds of shoppers this summer in a safe and welcoming indoor space.
READ MORE
Cast announced for landmark Citizens Theatre homecoming production Small Acts of Love
The Citizens Theatre has revealed the full cast for Small Acts of Love, the first production to be performed on the theatre's home stage in more than seven years when it reopens later this year.
READ MORE
Sunday mornings just got a lot more interesting...
El Perro Negro is bringing back its cult-favourite Breakfast Club menu. And this time, it's popping up once a month at the award-winning Woodlands Road restaurant - starting 29th June!
READ MORE
Talent shines at 39th edition of Glasgow Jazz Festival
The curtain has closed on the 39th edition of Glasgow Jazz Festival, reaffirming its place as one of the UK's premier and much-loved jazz events.
READ MORE
ParalympicsGB athlete Stephen Clegg visits Cadder Primary School for special workshop
ParalympicsGB athlete Stephen Clegg made a special appearance at Cadder Primary School to help deliver an exciting workshop on the importance of energy saving in partnership with British Gas.
READ MORE
Earlybird tickets drive buzz for 2026 Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show
The biggest show of its kind in Scotland returns with Earlybird tickets and a give-away with headline sponsor Border Caravans!
READ MORE
July events at Dobbies Garden Centres
Check out July at Dobbies with it's Little Seedlings Club on rainforests and Grow How on pest control and healthy gardens!
READ MORE
Guts UK, the national digestive charity, brings interactive awareness event to Glasgow
Guts UK and Colin the Colon, a giant, walk-through inflatable replica of a colon will be in Glasgow to raise vital awareness of digestive health conditions.
READ MORE
Historic Environment Scotland calls for public stories for national wellbeing exhibition
Historic Environment Scotland is calling for people across the country to connect with heritage to boost their wellbeing as a part of a national campaign, Historic Places, Breathing Spaces.
READ MORE
Chef Modou Diagne to open new restaurant TRUST in Glasgow
Critically acclaimed chef Modou Diagne, known for his innovative approach and celebrated success at 111 by Nico, is set to open his second Glasgow restaurant this summer.
READ MORE
Poets line up for special Refugee Festival Scotland event
An inspiring event celebrating togetherness, diversity and human connection is set to be staged in Glasgow this week as part of Refugee Festival Scotland 2025.
READ MORE
Soulful start for Glasgow Jazz Festival
The 39th edition of Glasgow Jazz Festival gets off to a soulful start today as it opens at venues across the city, officially kicking off five extraordinary days of music.
READ MORE
Aldi Supermarket Sweep is coming to Glasgow
Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep challenge is back again for another year, giving customers in Glasgow the chance to raise funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).
READ MORE
Casting Announced for FRIENDS! The Musical Parody coming to Edinburgh and Glasgow
Today, the producers of the 2025/26 UK and Ireland tour of FRIENDS! The Musical Parody are delighted to announce casting for the side-splitting musical comedy.
READ MORE
First Scottish Shopera experience comes to Glasgow
Buchanan Galleries is opening its doors to the world of opera, hosting Scotland's first-ever 'shopera' – a student-created bold and original production staged in a shopping centre.
READ MORE
Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 adds two new categories and voting deadline extended!
Scotland's hospitality industry and customers have spoken, and the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 has listened!
READ MORE
Over 1,000 yogis set to downward dog at Emirates Arena for largest event of its kind
Over 1,000 yoga enthusiasts will be namaste-ing at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow this Saturday as part of a World Yoga Day event with renowned PYPT practitioner, Sadhvi Devaditi.
READ MORE
Global fashion retail brand Hollister now open at Silverburn
Leading retail and leisure destination Silverburn has announced that global fashion retailer Hollister has opened its doors today, joining its line-up of leading fashion brands this summer.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links