Max HeyraudWe chart five vital fresh cuts from the Irish dance music scene.
From cavernous techno explorations to euphoric trance peaks, Ireland’s electronic music scene continues to churn out some of the most exciting and forward-thinking sounds in global electronic music. Here are five new tracks from the Irish scene you need to hear right now, demonstrating the depth, creativity and restless energy driving Ireland’s underground forward.
Pagan – Poison
Sydney-based Pagan has been churning out high-octane trance at a relentless pace, and his latest release, “Poison,” is a perfect example of that energy. Packed with euphoric melodies, punchy drums that flirt with hard-house territory, colossal breakdowns, and an instantly earworming vocal, it’s an unapologetically bracing trance cut that captures the genre’s forward trajectory.
AOIFE – Seldom [Incense Records]
Belfast’s AOIFE is a seasoned architect behind the decks, but the latest addition to her evolving arsenal is a series of gut-wrenching, dark, and twisted productions. “Seldom,” from her latest EP on Incense Records, is no exception. A track built around trudging, burnished grooves, nerve-rattling atmospheres, and thunderous low-end, tailor-made for misty basement clubs.
CULT – The Dancer
Dublin’s CULT has become synonymous with forward-facing techno experimentation. A long-standing producer known for his consistently high-quality output, he has recently been pushing further beyond the boundaries of the genre, blending elements of IDM, dubstep, and dub into his techno productions. “The Dancer,” taken from his latest self-released EP, is an introspective and contemporary groove that demands attention.
SPOOKLET – CARDINAL FURY (feat. silverglass)
Few producers in Ireland are challenging audiences to the extent that SPOOKLET is. Her latest track, “CARDINAL FURY,” featuring silverglass, is a testament to that fearless approach. She builds a bed of grainy, shifting tones that lay the foundation for scattered percussion, deformed vocals, and heaving bass. One of her most audacious offerings to date, the track pushes boundaries with confidence and delivers a payoff that lands tenfold.
Talinho – Tara [Scordisci]
Deep, brooding techno from a Dublin-based artist who is becoming increasingly synonymous with the more arcane and mind-scrambling corners of cavernous techno. His latest release on Irish-born label Scordisci is as entrancing as ever, combining immersive atmospheres, shifting syncopated synth lines, and his trademark rhythmically intricate percussion and low-end work. It’s yet another compelling addition to an already impressive and steadily growing discography.