Last year all they had to their credit was a lot of buzz, but now the members of Franz Ferdinand are legitimate rock stars, after they won the Mercury Music Prize yesterday.

The Scottish foursome won Britain’s prestigious award, which is given to the best U.K. or Irish album of the year. The award was presented to the band in London, much to their surprise.

“We didn’t expect to win this,” said singer Alex Kapranos, as he accepted the award. 11 members of the media and artist community chose Franz Ferdinand out of 12 nominees. “We haven’t got a speech or anything.”

They beat out such acts as The Streets, Snow Patrol, Keane, Joss Stone, and the Zutons.

Franz Ferdinand have been touring all year in support of their debut self-titled album.

The award signifies an expected rise in sales of their album. Previous winners Dizzee Rascal and Ms Dynamite saw significant rises in the weeks following their victories.

They also receive ?20,000 (about $40,000 U.S.).

Bookmakers had Franz Ferdinand as 3-to-1 favourites.






Related Stories: