The shortlist for the Scottish Alternative Music Awards 2018 has been revealed.

A total of 28 acts will battle it out over seven different categories, which celebrate the rich diversity of Scotland's music scene.

Artists nominated include Declan Welsh & The Decadent West, who will be going head-to-head with Lucia, Voodoos and St Martiins for the title of Best Rock/Alternative.

Free Love, Lylo, Rapid Tan and Future Get Down will also battle it out for the coveted Best Live Act award, while Zoe Graham, The Dunts, Beta Waves and Crystal hope to pick up Best Newcomer.

Richy Muirhead, SAMAs director, said: "It is exciting to be bringing the SAMAs back for the ninth year and announcing the nominees for 2018 today.

"This year's nominations show the incredibly diverse music culture that exists across Scotland.

"The SAMAs will be a giant celebration and opportunity for many people to discover new and exciting artists."

The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, October 25 at St Luke's, Glasgow, and will be hosted by Jim Gellatly and STV's entertainment correspondent Laura Boyd.

There will be live performances from Blanck Mass and The Vegan Leather, while all money raised on the night will be donated to Help Musicians Scotland's mental health charity, Music Minds Matter.

Best Acoustic

Best Rock/Alternative

Best Newcomer

Best Live Act

Best Electronic

Best Metal

Best Hip Hop