Julia Jacklin, King Stingray Lead Australian Music Prize Finalists

The Australian Music Prize (AMP) has announced its shortlist of nine finalists for its 18th edition.

After considering 490 eligible albums released by Australian artists in 2022, a diverse judging panel of industry experts decided on the nine-strong shortlist for the 18th Soundmerch AMP.

"Yet again we have a very strong list, Founder and Prime Director, Scott B. Murphy, said. "It's incredibly diverse and truly captures another year of the world's best music.

"I sincerely thank the Soundmerch AMP team of judges - their donation of time and passion is such greater than what most people would think."

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Julia Jacklin makes the shortlist for her third studio album, Pre Pleasure, with judge Mikey Cahill hailing it as "perfect in every way."

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Rapper Tasman Keith (A Colour Undone), hip hop star Sampa the Great (As Above, So Below), and indie rock trio Camp Cope (Running with the Hurricane) were some of the other established names to receive nominations.

King Stingray also made the shortlist for their massive self-titled debut album. "We are so stoked that our debut album made the shortlist for the AMP, and feel privileged to be in the company of so many other great artist that are making so many great records. Yo Manymak," said the band's Roy Kellaway.

You can check out the full shortlist below. The winner of the 2022 Soundmerch AMP will be revealed on Wednesday, March 1st, and they'll receive a cash prize of $30,000. For more information about the prize, head to the official website.

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18th Soundmerch AMP Shortlist

In partnership with EMI, Virgin and Island Records

1300 - Foreign Language Body Type - Everything Is Dangerous but Nothing's Surprising Camp Cope - Running with the Hurricane Julia Jacklin - Pre Pleasure King Stingray - King Stingray Laura Jean - Amateurs Party Dozen - The Real Work Sampa the Great - As Above, So Below Tasman Keith - A Colour Undone