A recently-formed southeast Saskatchewan music trio is on the long list for the Album of the Year Award from SaskMusic.
Now they’re looking for the public’s assistance to help them reach the next round.
Hook and Nail is a folks-roots group consisting of Lindsay Arnold, her husband Mike Davis, and their friend Jeff Michel. They have been nominated for the top album award for their debut release, Ghosts of Taylorton, which was officially released in September.
Many of the songs from Ghosts of Taylorton deal with local history, including the Estevan Riot that occurred in September 1931.
“It’s been another great year for Saskatchewan music,” SaskMusic said in a news release. “Our artists are creating amazing recordings, pursuing international markets, creating innovative new sounds, and winning over fans around the globe.
“Now we want to know your thoughts on the standout recordings of 2018. Which Saskatchewan albums resonated with you?”
The long list, which consists of 40 albums, was curated by an industry and peer jury from a list of over 150 qualifying albums released this year. The albums were released at the inaugural SaskMusic Awards on Nov. 25.
“It’s now up to the public to select the 'best of the best,’” Sask. Music said.
Only one vote per internet protocol address will be accepted for the duration of the polling period. Voting is open now and closes at midnight on Dec. 11. The Top 10 Saskatchewan albums of 2018 will be rolled out the following week.
“This project is to promote and celebrate Saskatchewan music. We seek to raise more awareness of our local homegrown music and celebrate our artists’ many successes over the past year,” Sask. Music said.
To be eligible for the award, an album had to be released between Nov. 1, 2017, and Nov. 1, 2018. The primary verification used is the date of its release in iTunes. If not on iTunes, other forms of verification are accepted.
It also has to be at least 30 minutes or five tracks in length, and released by an artist residing in Saskatchewan at the time of the album's release date.
All genres of music are included for consideration.
