1992. Primal Scream, 'Screamadelica'
Who were they? Inaugural champions Primal Scream had released two albums prior to 'Screamadelica', both to limited success. This third record signalled a dancier direction and it gaves the Scots a shot in the arm.
Was it an entirely outrageous choice? No. No way. 'Screamadelica' still remains a fine record, and is an album that defines 90s Britain with its adventure and inventiveness. 'Achtung Baby' was a strong contender for the prize, but by pitting themselves against the Brit Awards, it was important for the Mercury panel to pick an underdog, someone who the award would affect in a huge way.
What have they done since? Primal Scream have gone on to release another seven records, most recently 'More Light', this year. Darkly dub-inspired 'Vanishing Point' was later nominated, but the band possibly topped their masterpiece with 'XTRMNTR', an acidic, political knife-fight of a record that a fellow WhatCulture writer recently
praised. You're spot on, Barry Marshall. It's quality.