James Blake reflects on Mercury Prize win


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James Blake spoke to the press soon after his somewhat surprising Mercury Prize win last night (October 30th), and joked he would spend the £20,000 winner’s cheque on a crazy golf course.

“It felt different this year,” he remarked. “It’s less nerve-wracking and much less daunting. I feel like I have the event a bit more sussed out. I’ve got no idea why the judges nominated my record. If I could tell you that I’d be able to write another one!”

Blake landed his second nomination for the 2013 album ‘Overgrown‘, but had not been considered a serious contender in the build up to yesterday’s ceremony. Laura Mvula was the favourite immediately before the announcement, while Disclosure, Foals, Laura Marling and Arctic Monkeys had all been considered more likely victors since the shortlist was unveiled last month.

“I’m going to spend the money on a crazy golf course for my front garden,” Blake continued. “I’m not even a fan. The obstacles will be all the other artists in the competition just holding miniature golf clubs. Either way I’ll be getting drunk tonight!”


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