The upcoming Mercury Prize Awards ceremony is scheduled to be held on October 16 at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle. Fans are already placing bets on the favorite to win, with Irish singer-songwriter CMAT emerging as a top contender following the release of her latest album, Euro-Country.
Known professionally as CMAT, Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson has been gaining recognition since accompanying indie sensation Sam Fender on tour. During the lockdown period, her clever country-pop narratives captured the hearts of many in Ireland, propelling her to stardom and self-proclaiming herself as a “big fat pop star.”
CMAT’s musical influence has transcended Dublin, reaching audiences across the UK, Europe, the US, and Australia with hits like “Take a Sexy Picture of Me” and “Stay for Something.” Infusing humor, heartbreak, and a hint of chaos into her music, CMAT has garnered a dedicated following worldwide.
One of CMAT’s songs, “Take a Sexy Picture of Me,” went viral on social media, sparking a new TikTok dance trend that has garnered over 169,000 posts under its sound. The song has received endorsements from various celebrities, including Lola Young, Julia Fox, Amelia Dimoldenberg from Chicken Shop, and Liz Gillies, who have all embraced the song’s catchy appeal.
Despite the song’s rising popularity, CMAT describes it as a poignant piece, blending darkness with humor. She aimed to create a joyous and empowering anthem that also serves as a rallying cry for listeners.
Shortlisted for the 2025 Mercury Prize, Euro-Country has been praised for its insightful lyrics, bold production, and emotional depth. The album, which debuted at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart, has been lauded for its unique blend of satire and sincerity, addressing themes such as fame, solitude, and self-awareness.
CMAT is being touted as a frontrunner for the album of the year Mercury Prize, with critics and outlets hailing Euro-Country as a standout release. However, the ultimate winner will be determined by an industry panel, and the official announcement is yet to be made.