The AIM Independent Music Awards

Running for 13 years now, the AIM is responsible for over 90% of the acts from the independent market. They have garnered six Mercury Prize winners in the last ten years. The organisation has also spread its wings and developed its own awards ceremony. Having had one in the previous year, the people behind the company must have decided to give their artists and others the privilege of it once again. 

The night kicked off with Frankie and the Heartstrings. A lot was expected from these rising young lads, however, their performance and music gave little to back that impression. Nevertheless, the show continued with winners being announced. All the recipients were ecstatic upon picking up their awards and there was a lovely vibe throughout the proceedings. More popular artists such as Wiley, The Prodigy, Enter Shikari and Adele couldn’t attend the event, but their spokespeople filled in with noble efforts to thank the fans and organisers. 

Land Observations was the second act to perform, and the ambient guitar music was lengthy, yet pleasing. The hosts of the awards were exceptionally hospitable with food and drink readily available to press and guests, once again proving the generosity and nurturing nature of the association. The final musical performance was courtesy of Big Deal. After taking a while to tune up, the music kicked in and the audience were glad they waited. To wrap things up, Daniel Miller gave a fantastic speech. He commended the ceremony and the people behind it, praising its existence and encouraging further interest in its future projects. 

Verdict: ••••

Rahul Bahal

Photos:  Martin Evans

For more information on AIM, visit their website.