One of the main awards has now been decided by you the audience. The winner will be announced at the Poll Winners concert in March. A huge thanks to all those who contributed. It was wonderful to see such a wide-ranging list of nominations (left) and the way so many of the musicians have touched your lives.
Here are the bands who were voted onto the final shortlist. Click on each name to read more about them and click on the 'listen' icon to hear a selected track from each band. A large selection of your comments can be found by clicking on the list to the left.
Sandor Sebok, Hungary:
'I have seen five concerts by them last year and was completely mesmerized every time. They are simply the best band. I had a chance to listen their forthcoming new album which will be released in February. Be prepared for many fantastic new songs!'
Jussi, Finland:
'They are so prodigious, unique and different. Well I'm Finn, but I don't praise them because of that. I`ve been listening to them for over 10 years and I hope the new album continues growing and evolving.'
Jeremiah J. Ryan, USA:
'They are the most fantastic band in existence and it is beyond me why the general population has not noticed this great music and these beautiful women!'
Alistair Armitage, Edinburgh:
'A group I have been hearing for many years now. Each time I hear them, I am fascinated by their sound: their music stands out as something quite different.'