ICM Awards 2020: Track of the Year Nominees

It’s on the tip of everyone’s tongues, who are the ICM Awards 2020 Track of the Year nominees?

This year has been very difficult to decide our top five and there has been so many to choose from. Despite 2020 being so dire, music has once again risen above it to keep the nation, and the world, going stronger than ever before. So without further a do, here are the nominees:

Marsicans – ‘Juliet’

Taken from the band’s debut album Ursa Major, ‘Juliet’ is one of our favourites here at ICM. Released back in February, the single is a stomping slice of indie pop with juicy hooks, soaring choruses and singalong lyrics. ‘Juliet’ is arguably one of the best singles the Leeds quartet have produced. The album finished 49th in the UK official chart which is mightily impressive for an independent band. Will Marsicans be this year’s winner?

Hazel English – ‘Wake Up!’

What a stella year for Hazel English, not only is she nominated for Best International Act for the work on her new album, the LA artist is also a Track of the Year nominee with ‘Wake Up!’. The song does exactly what the title says and will certainly wake you up in the morning. The track is fast-paced with a combination of indie rock and motown guitars over woozy vocals and a playful drum beat. This vibrant tune is a testament to English’s writing style but can she take home this year’s award?

Paris Youth Foundation – ‘Home Is Where The Heart Is’

Liverpool five-piece Paris Youth Foundation are already well-known for their anthemic indie pop tunes and ‘Home Is Where The Heart Is’ is no exception. We were even fortunate to see the band in London on their UK tour back in February and hearing this song live is only further proof of how potent this song is. It’s brimmed with sonic optimism, yet underpinned by a yearning for closure and comfort. From the off the relentlessly bright instrumental evokes images of a late night drive down memory lane, where the fading auburn light of the sun battles with the gleam of overhead street lamps. Could this track be our winner?

LAUREL – ‘Scream Drive Faster’

British artist Laurel Arnell-Cullen makes the Track of the Year shortlist for her hit single ‘Scream Drive Faster’. Deeply rooted in alternative pop and 80s electronica, the musician has a tinge of HAIM in her vocals as she pushes her pop influences at the forefront of her music. ‘Scream Drive Faster’ has all the potions for a great hit; powerful melodies, infectious chorus and striking vocals that grab your attention. This is a buoyant single from the young artist and her unique way could take her to the top. Will LAUREL scoop Track of the Year?

Red Rum Club – ‘Ballerino’

As an ode to tackle toxic masculinity, their single ‘Ballerino’ is a soaring indie rock anthem that just makes you want to dance. The Liverpool-based band released their sophomore album ‘The Hollow of Humdrum’ this year and successfully 58th in the official UK album charts. ‘Ballerino’ is the fruit of the album; their feelgood songcraft, beautiful summer gloss of brass instruments and tropical sounding guitars will pick up anybody’s spirits. Can Red Rum Club be this year’s winner?