Rapper Dizzee Rascal, The xx tipped for Mercury Prize

Rapper Dizzee Rascal and indie trio The xx are among the favourites for this year's Mercury Prize for most outstanding album.

Over 200 entries have been whittled down to the final 12, which include chart veteran Paul Weller and soulful songstress Corinne Bailey Rae.

Dizzee Rascal, who won the Mercury Prize in 2003 for his debut album 'Boy in da Corner', is tipped for 'Tongue N' Cheek' while The xx are shortlisted for their debut eponymous album.

Bookmaker William Hill quoted both at 41 to win the £20,000 ($30,380) prize which will be awarded in London on September 7.

The shortlist:
I Am Kloot - Sky At Night
Foals - Total Life Forever
Laura Marling - I Speak Because I Can
The xx - xx
Dizzee Rascal - Tongue N' Cheek
Corinne Bailey Rae - The Sea
Villagers - Becoming A Jackal
Wild Beasts - Two Dancers
Biffy Clyro - Only Revolutions
Kit Downes Trio - Golden
Paul Weller - Wake Up The Nation
Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More