The Arctic Monkeys look set to repeat their amazing success of 2006 after getting nominated for a total of four NME Awards.

They are one of five bands - including Muse, Kasabian and US rockers My Chemical Romance and The Killers - up for four titles this year.

Blog: NME of the people

Robbie Williams is up for Worst Album for Rudebox - alongside Lily Allen for It's Alright, Still.

Allen also has a nomination for Best Solo Artist. During the past two years it has been British bands sweeping the board at the annual ceremony.

Last year, the Arctic Monkeys made NME history by scooping Best New Band and Best British Band.

This year, the group from Sheffield are in the running for Best British Band, Best Live Band, Best Album and Best Music DVD.

They said the nominations were "very nice" adding, "we didn't think we would get any this year. It seems weird for us to be alongside them (the competition) because we still feel like a little band.

"When it's your own thing you don't really see yourself alongside The Killers and Kasabian. The Arctic Monkeys are up against Pete Doherty's band Babyshambles, as well as Muse, Oasis and Kasabian for Best British Band.

Leicester foursome Kasabian said: "We're blown away by it, it's an honour." The Killers said of their competition: "It's great to be with them. "We're huge fans of Kasabian and everyone loves Arctic Monkeys. It's cool, it feels like music right now is living and breathing."

The Horrors, the Fratellis, Klaxons, The Kooks and The View are up for Best New Band at the March 1 awards. Recovering drug addict Doherty has been nominated for Hero of the Year as well as Villain of the Year.

Doherty was voted the Cool Icon of 2004 in NME's Cool List of the same year. NME editor Conor McNicholas said: "This year's Shockwaves NME Awards nominations reflect what has been an exceptional 12 months for rock music.

"Whether recognising the phenomenal success of bands like Arctic Monkeys, Muse and My Chemical Romance, or shining a spotlight on exciting emerging talent like The View, Klaxons and The Horrors, the nominations list demonstrates the richness and variety at the heart of our scene."

The awards and the nominations are voted for by fans.