The 10th Anniversary of The NMG Awards 2023 were held in The Apex in Bury St Edmunds and was fantastic event to celebrate the music coming out of the East of England.
Tim Willett once again hosted the show with immense pride, for the event to reach 10 years, for the numbers in the crowd attending the ceremony and for the incredible talent in the room which he has continually supported through his weekly radio show The New Music Generator show on Cambridge 105.
The nominated artists were asked to submit up to two audio tracks that best represent their music and a panel of judges listened to these and took other elements into account including live performances, and how active they have been in the past year. New to the judging panel this year are Rebecca May and Melody Causton. A couple of categories were open to a public vote.
There are 18 awards so there was a lot to get through and kicking off the night were Fred’s House with their funky pop energy to get us all in the mood for a good night. The evening was efficient and interspersed with live music from Isla Mae, ELGEEUU, Matt Peet and his band, Oli Harris, Ikarus, Afterdrive and Gabby Rivers ended the night getting the audience on their feet and dancing. There was also a special performance from the NMG AllStars who had come together for one night only to perform a track written specifically for the night by Elliot Porter – a great catchy song and hopefully it will get released.
Each award was presented by the category sponsor, the five shortlisted nominees were shown on the big screen and then the announcement of the winner was said after a dramatic pulling out from a golden envelope. Each winner came up to the sound of cheers as they collected their award, gave a little speech and get photos taken. There were additional Artist Development Prizes which are practical prizes from supporters and sponsors which are given to nominated artists to further their careers.
NMG 2023 Winners
Urban: Monticolombi
Female Solo: Coupdekat
Producer of the Year: Jack Murphy
Alternative: Tape Runs Out
Pop: Reno & Rome
Festival of the Year: Strawberry Fair
Heavy: Far From Refuge
Male Solo: Matt Peet
Electronic & Experimental: Amethysts
Breakthrough: Collars
Venue of the Year: Portland Arms
Folk & Americana: Imlac
Audience Choice: Dead Reynolds
Indie: Oli Harris
Rock: Brave Liaison
18 & Under: Ikarus
Breakout: Fred’s House
NMG Legend: Amethyst
Thanks as always to the sponsors: The Hunter Club, Grapevine, The Nerve Agency, Portland Arms, Cambridge 105 Radio, Women Making Waves, Headline Records, Brewboard, The Plough Shepreth,
Thanks once again to Tim for a fantastic celebration of music!
Photos: SixtyTwoThings