It seems that the Brit Awards have come full circle. From their rather middle-of-the-road beginnings in the 1980s, through the chaos and alternative leanings of the Nineties, back to a relatively safe position in the new Millennium.
In 2007 the nominees are pretty much what you'd expect - a roll-call of the best-selling artists in each category. I'm not saying Snow Patrol don't deserve their three nominations in Best Band, Best Album and Best Single (for Chasing Cars, in case you're wondering).
And, because they have the best-selling album of the year, you'd expect them to walk away with at least one gong. But the list of nominees in 2007 shows how safe the music industry has become.
Yes, it's a complaint that's trotted out each year. And when you put what it supposed to be the cream of British talent down on paper it's not that impressive. Look at the contenders for Breakthrough act; Lily Allen, who has four nominations, is pleasant enough but hardly revolutionary. Same goes for The Kooks and Corinne Bailey Rae. James Morrison is like listening to paint dry and The Fratellis are like a modern-day Chas and Dave.
To get some actually creativity you have to look, as usual, to the international acts. Beck, Bob Dylan, Damien Rice, Jack Johnson and Justin Timberlake are in the running for Best International Male. This eclectic yet talented line-up compete in one of the few categories that actually lives up to its name.
The Flaming Lips, Gnarls Barkley, The Killers, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Scissor Sisters are in the Best International Band Category. If there they were all playing a concert I know I'd go and see it. The same can't really be said for Arctic Monkeys, Kasabian, Muse, Razorlight and Snow Patrol, who will fight it out for Best British Band.
Oasis will be receiving an award this year for their outstanding contribution to music, presumably before they release another album and further dampen a once-bright legacy.
The ceremony itself, which had a reputation for being chaotic and unpredictable, is now simply a self-congratulatory pat on the back for the industry. There'll be no repeat of the Sam Fox/ Mick Fleetwood hilarity, the KLF won't be allowed to come along with machine guns and dead sheep. If last year is anything to go by, there won't be any really interesting live performances either, which is a shame.
While we've come a long way since the likes of Phil Collins or Sting just had to turn up to get an award, you can't help but feel that the British music industry needs a shot in the arm. And something a bit more worthwhile to celebrate in 2008. The Brit awards will be televised on UTV on February 14.
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