The BRIT Awards have pretty much zero credibility and even The Grammys are looked upon with scorn by most (The Simpsons has made more than a few references to their perceived pointlessness), so the Mercury Prize is viewed as highly-respected in contrast. Famously favouring alternative acts such as Radiohead, PJ Harvey and Foals, with a recent leaning towards Pitchfork Media-verified bands, this award aims to steer clear of chart fodder. Of course, there is room for acts that successfully maintain their indie ethics whilst crossing over to the mainstream (Arctic Monkeys, Jake Bugg are big examples from this years nominees) but the philosophy behind the prize has increasingly become an appraisal of idiosyncrasy and independence.In 1994, the Kinksy character-driven soul of Blurs Parklife was everybodys sure-fire victor. Yet, a panel of distinguished music experts decided that M Peoples house-influenced Elegant Slumming was more deserving of the prestigious award, generating a collective shock and disbelief akin to that which greeted Bob Dylan turning electric at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965. Well, not quite. But many were left disillusioned and critics endlessly chastised the ruling. How could a witty, organic, satire-ridden and infectious pop record have its rightful crown prized away from it? Fittingly, 'elegant slumming', is a rather astute description of middle class Damon Albarn et als embracing of a 'mockney' demeanour and indulgence in class tourism. Ill bet that Jarvis Cocker saw the funny side of this particular travesty.