Three bands have been named as nominees for the J Award Australian Album of the Year, they are Washington, Bliss n Eso and Birds Of Tokyo.

Washington – I Believe You, Liar

After winning triple j’s Unearthed Big Day Out competition in 2009, the ride for Megan Washington has been wild. Between playing our One Night Stand concert, collaborating with Paul Kelly and selling out shows across the country, Washington brings us a stunning debut. I Believe You, Liar takes us from family to friends, crushes to heartbreak, with whimsical stories which are far from cliché. You can’t help but fall head over heels with the girl.

Birds Of Tokyo – Birds Of Tokyo

Since their humble beginnings back in 2004, we’ve watched this Perth 4 piece Birds of Tokyo soar. Their self titled, third album was recorded between Sydney, London, Gothenburg and New York and delivers their most powerful collection of rock songs to date. Epic orchestral arrangements, euphoric hooks and emotionally charged melodies showcase the bands strong musicianship. The boys have come out guns blazing on this one.

Bliss N Eso – Running On Air Only Bliss N Eso could take a Kasey Chambers song and turn it into a hip-hop tune. That’s just one of the ways these Sydney lads defy expectations with their fourth studio album Running On Air. After ten years together, Bliss N Eso have stretched themselves creatively on an album that’s their most introspective and personal to date.

More J Award nominees will be announced over the coming months. Winners will be announced in the first week of December, after the culmination of Aus Music Month.

Birds of Tokyo recently advertised their new tour on radioinfo, to great response. Congratulations on your nomination Birds!