Jazz FM Awards 2020 have been announced: South London contenders set to pick up an award

The nominations for the Jazz FM Awards 2020 have been announced with a strong South London representation.

Artists such as Moses Boyd, SEED Ensemble, Joe Armon-Jones and Ashley Henry are contenders to pick up an award.

The awards recognise the best emerging new artists, contemporary icons and established stars from across the worlds of jazz, soul and blues.

More than ever, this year’s shortlist reflects the genre’s rude health  and the melting pot of sounds and influences which make up its rich multicultural history.

SEED Ensemble and keys player Joe Armon-Jones are both up for the PRS For Music UK Jazz Act Of The Year.

SEED Ensemble have also been nominated for Album Of The Year. The 10-piece band led by alto saxophonist and composer Cassie Kinoshi received widespread acclaim for their African, Caribbean and Jazz infused album Driftglass.

Pianist Ashley Henry has also received a nod for Album of the Year with his enigmatic album Beautiful Vinyl Hunter and Moses Boyd has been nominated for the Innovation Award.

Andrea Martin, chief executive of PRS for Music, said: “I am delighted that we are once again supporting the Jazz FM Awards, celebrating the brightest stars in the jazz, soul and blues community.

“The UK Jazz Act of the Year award is always hotly contested and we’re looking forward to seeing who the public vote as the winner.

Congratulations to everyone nominated across all the awards, your creativity, innovation and vision continues to inspire us.”