U.K. rock outfit English Teacher has won the 2024 Mercury Prize for its debut album, This Could Be Texas (Island). The set was praised by judges for its originality and character.

The Leeds group emerged victorious from a shortlist of 12 albums by the likes of Charli xcx, The Last Dinner Party, Cat Burns and Beth Gibbons.

The judging team said of its decision, “This has been a really tough year for the Mercury Prize judges, with the final 12 albums being so reflective of our diverse and rich musical landscape. There was so much passion and enthusiasm for each one. In the end, though, we did agree that This Could Be Texas by English Teacher stands out for its originality and character. A winning lyrical mix of surrealism and social observation, alongside a subtle way of wearing its musical innovations lightly, displays a fresh approach to the traditional guitar-band format. This Could Be Texas reveals new depths on every listen, the mark of a future classic.”

The winner was announced last night (9/5) via the Mercury Prize 2024: Album of the Year TV program on BBC, which was broadcast live from London’s Abbey Road Studios. It’s the first time the prize hasn’t been bestowed during an awards ceremony.

Released in April, This Could Be Texas hit #8 on the U.K.’s Official Albums Chart. English Teacher begins a North American tour 9/11 in Dallas and will do a European victory lap starting in mid-October.