THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING INDIE: Once the Grammy nominations were announced, the A2IM wasted no time firing off an email blast heralding the growing significance of the indie sector in the modern musical landscape. Indie labels and artists picked up 210 of the 393 non-producer category nominations, which adds up to more than half of all nominees for the third consecutive year. Among the top scorers were Mumford & Sons, Alabama Shakes, The Lumineers, The Civil Wars, Ultra Music and Concord Music Group, the indie label leader with 26 total nods. Said Daniel Glass, "Babel continues to prove itself and touch people. We are elated, inspired, and proud of Mumford & Sons and their very talented producer, Markus Dravs." Added ATO GM Jon Salter, "We're so proud to be working with the Alabama Shakes. The band's talent and passion brings an energy to the music that's touching listeners across the country." Mute’s Nicole Blonder chimed in, "We're so proud of M83 and the entire team! Everyone's worked incredibly hard to have this masterpiece of an album be recognized by the industry." For a full list of indie nominees, go to the A2IM site. (12/6a)