Voting is now open for AIM Independent Music Awards’ Best Live Act of 2018, sponsored by Songkick. The winner is decided by the public and voting closes on 8pm Sunday 5th August. You can vote for your favourite live act at Songkick.

Celebrating the finest in independent music’s live music sector, this year's recipient joins previous winners Counterfeit (2017), Babymetal (2016), All Time Low (2015), Sophie Ellis Bextor (2014), Enter Shikari (2013), The Prodigy (2012) and Frank Turner (2011).

Representing the full spectrum of independent acts, this year’s longlist for Best Live Act 2018 features a typically eclectic array of incredible artists. The acts nominated this year are: Alvvays, Aphex Twin, Bonobo, Brutus, Cassia, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Christine & The Queens, Confidence Man, Cosmo Sheldrake, Courtney Barnett, DAWN, DMA’s, Dream Wife, Erasure, Fantastic Negrito, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, Gengahr, Hinds, Hookworms, IDLES, Jack White, Jungle, Kamaal Williams, Kamasi Washington, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, King Krule, Marlon Williams, Mogwai, Mykki Blanco, Newton Faulkner, ODESZA, Pale Waves, Rex Orange County, SOPHIE, Starcrawler, Steps, The Comet Is Coming, The Darkness, The National, The Physics House Band, The Sherlocks, Tom Misch, Wolf Alice and Young Fathers.

The Best Live Act nominees will be announced on August 7th, with the winners announced at the AIM Independent Music Awards 2018 ceremony, taking place at The Brewery, Clerkenwell on 4th September. In addition to the previously announced returning host Mistajam (BBC Radio 1), AIM are pleased to introduce co-host Sharon Carpenter, presenter of the hugely popular live quiz show app HQ. Sharon has a rich history with music, having interviewed some of the biggest stars in the world including Jay Z, Beyonce, Dua Lipa and Mick Jagger. Sharon also worked closely with music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, helping to launch his network REVOLT TV, as their main news presenter. “I am so excited to be co-hosting the AIM Awards,” says Sharon. “Music has always played such a massive role in my life, so to have the opportunity to celebrate the best of the best in independent music - it's just so amazing. Independent music is the backbone of the industry, with it creativity, innovation and courage to break the rules. It's going to be a fantastic night as we recognise the many accomplishments of these bold artists. I can't wait!"

The AIM Independent Music Awards celebrates innovation and legacy within the independent sector, with 16 categories rewarding both recent and career-spanning achievements, uniquely recognising both artists and those working behind the scenes.

AIM’s 800+ members span every musical genre and every corner of the UK. They range from the largest and most respected independent music companies in the world, to small start ups and self-releasing bands. The AIM Independent Music Awards celebrates the diverse, wide-ranging work and achievements of the UK music industry, and champions those who continue to push the boundaries of independent music.

Tickets for this years ceremony are now on sale and are available from just £115. Tickets include three course dinner, drinks receptions, live performances and access to the after party. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit http://www.musicindie.com/info/

2018 Categories are:

Independent Track of the Year - in association with Spotify

Independent Album of the Year - in association with Ingrooves

Best Live Act - in association with Songkick **

Independent Video of the Year - in association with Vevo

UK Breakthrough of the Year - in association with YouTube

International Breakthrough of the Year - in association with Deezer

Best Small Label - in association with Awesome Merchandise

Independent Label of the Year - in association with Believe *

Best Sophomore Release - in association with Radio X

Best Creative Packaging - in association with MCPS

Hardest Working Group or Artist

Indie Champion Award * - in association with PIAS

PPL Award For Most Played New Independent Act *

Innovator Award - in association with Fuga *

Outstanding Contribution to Music * - in association with Merlin

Pioneer Award *

• Categories shortlisted by judging panel and not open for entry.

** Public vote