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Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Dan Kelly [pictured right] is nominated for Best Artist and Best Album at this year's Jagermeister Independent Music Awards for his fifth LP Dan Kelly's Dream. The music video for his track 'Hold On, I'm Coming On'' is embedded above.

Ahead of this year's awards night - more details on that at the bottom of this post - we briefly caught up with Dan to talk independent music.

What's your favourite musical moment of 2010 so far, Dan?

I saw The John Steel Singers at the top pub in Byron kind of by accident. I had a day off and I was pretty loose and didn't know them at all and I really dug it. Also, the Pavement reformation was sensational!

Favourite song of 2010 so far by an Australian artist? 

I dont know about favourites  but I listened to 'Jeremy's Storm' by Tame Impala a lot this week [audio embedded below]. It is kind of Dungen-esque but a really great moody instrumental.

What does being independent mean to you?

I suppose not being the advertising front of a large corporation. That's nice. I would consider signing to a big label if I liked them and they gave me some tour support though. I certainly would think about it anyway. Best not pretend I'm Ian Mackaye or it will come back and hurt me later.

What's the biggest challenge you face as an independent musician?

I think it would be nice to be able to afford a tech/roadie and some better stage props. I'm not sure what a major could do for me, but the tour support would be really good. Then again perhaps I am just a bad business man.

Conversely, what's the best thing about being independent?

I don't get told what to write by anyone. Now and then someone kind of tries to pep talk me into a hit single. It's not that easy to do! 

As a musician, what would you ultimately like to be known and remembered for?

I'd like to be remembered as not boring, and that I followed my own trip, and I didn't name myself after an American animal, and as a brilliant lyricist, amazing lover, and the missing guitar playing link between Mark Knopfler and Wooden Shjips, and friend to the poor.

Favourite music video of all time by an Australian artist?

'Let's Get Funky' by the Beasts of Bourbon is always fun to watch. [embedded below]

I like collage-type videos. I can't stand watching bands mincing about in high definition.

What's the best thing about being associated with AIR and the Jagermeister Independent Music Awards?

It's good promotion and I'm in good company. 

Which Australian independent act deserves to be the 'next big thing'?

I like Eagle and The Worm a lot. Kind of a Stones/Pavement sweet times feel.

Finally, who do you think is going to win your category this year? Who deserves runner-up?

I don't know. Cloud Control seems very popular. I love that Rowland Howard record a lot. And Eddy Current are a great band. And I think Dan Sultan has some sweet tunes on his record too.

Thanks for your time, Dan! For more info on Dan Kelly, visit his MySpace.

The 5th Annual Jagermeister Independent Music Awards are held at The Forum Theatre, Melbourne on Friday October 1st, 2010, featuring live performances from British India, Cloud Control, The Amity Affliction, M-Phazes, Sally Seltmann and Joe Chindamo. Doors open at 8:00pm; tickets are $29+BF and available now via Ticketmaster.

For more info on AIR and Australian independent music, visit http://www.ausindies.com.au/