Max HeyraudWe’ve rounded up some dance music news you might have missed over the last week and wrapped it up into one tidy article for you. Don’t say we don’t treat you.
From late-night transport in Belfast to art grants, the return of minimal, the sale of Boiler Room and more, we’ve got the essential dance music news stories in here.
Translink Promises Year-Round Late-Night Services in Belfast
Translink has pledged to introduce year-round late-night bus and train services in Belfast, following a 50% increase in Christmas service usage. This, combined with Night Czar Michael Stewart’s commitment to delivering nighttime transport by Easter 2025, raises the prospect of a reliable system this year.
Dance System’s Post “The Death of Clubbing” Generates Controversy
Late last week, UK DJ and producer Dance System shared his thoughts on “The Death of Clubbing,” highlighting how the essence of clubbing is under threat as large-scale festivals and high-budget events grow in popularity. Small venues and local promoters—the lifeblood of the scene—are struggling to stay afloat as costs rise. The recent closure of Leeds’ The Old Red Bus Station sparked the conversation, shedding light on the challenges facing grassroots spaces in today’s climate.
Irish Government Programme Includes Commitment to Assess Basic Income for Artists
The new Programme for Government includes a commitment to evaluate the Basic Income for Artists (BIA) pilot to maximise its impact, as well as funding for the Arts Council, Culture Ireland, Music Generation, and Creative Schools. The BIA pilot, which began in 2022, has demonstrated positive effects on artist productivity and mental health, with 2,000 participants receiving weekly payments. Other commitments include supporting traditional Irish music, providing affordable artist spaces, increasing touring funding, developing the Night-time Economy, and completing key cultural projects such as the National Concert Hall redevelopment.
Richie Hawtin Announces “The Change is Coming’ via Instagram: ‘A Little Slower, A Lot More Minimal'”
Richie Hawtin, the pioneer behind the minimal movement that defined the 2000s dance music scene, has hinted on Instagram that minimalism may be making a comeback. As the driving force behind the shift to minimal in the mid-2000s, Hawtin helped move away from the era of high-BPM, hard-hitting techno. Now, it seems the cycle could be repeating. While an Instagram post may not spark a full-blown movement, it’s a bold signal that change could be on the way, led by one of dance music’s most influential figures.
Ejeca to Release Jalek Remix EP
Ejeca, the iconic Irish dance music producer, announced yesterday that he will be releasing a remix EP of his cult classic track, Jalek. If you’ve spent time in clubs or festivals in Ireland over the past decade, Jalek is likely etched in your memory, it was the undeniable anthem, especially at events like Life Festival in its prime. Now, the track is set to get four fresh reworks from unannounced artists, all released through Ejeca’s new label.
45-City “All Girl Rave” Tour Brings Women-Only Dancefloors Across the Globe
Sorry Papi has announced The All Girl Rave tour, a 45-city women-only electronic music celebration that will include stops in Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Nashville, as well as international shows in Amsterdam, Barcelona, Paris, Tokyo, and Melbourne. The events, framed as a stress-free, empowering space, aim to provide a safe haven for connection and self-expression on the dance floor. Dates have yet to be announced.
Calibre to Play First Dublin Show in 13 Years at Tengu
Irish drum & bass royalty, Calibre, will make his long-awaited return to Dublin on March 1st, performing an extended three-hour set at Tengu. The Irish DJ and producer hasn’t played a club show in the city since 2012. EMA’s Woozy is hosting the event, with the label boss providing support. Known as one of the most influential producers in drum & bass, as well as one of the most decorated yet often underrated Irish electronic acts, this is a club show that’s genuinely not to be missed.
Detroit Techno’s Legacy Celebrated in New Exhibition at Michigan State University Museum
Techno: The Rise of Detroit’s Machine Music will be on display at the Michigan State University Museum from February 4th to April 30th, examining the evolution of Detroit techno and its connection to Afrofuturism. The exhibition will feature panel discussions with Underground Resistance members Stacey Hotwaxx Hale and Mike Banks.
Jazzy Shortlisted for RTÉ Choice Music Prize Irish Artist of the Year
Jazzy has been shortlisted for the RTÉ Choice Music Prize Irish Artist of the Year, joining nominees like CMAT, Fontaines DC, and Kneecap. Recently dubbed “a key figure in the Irish dance scene” by Wonderland and “the new face of dance music” by Music Week, Jazzy’s rapid rise has also seen her spotlighted by MTV Push, Vevo #DSCVR, and RTÉ Breakthrough.
Boiler Room Acquired by Superstruct Entertainment
Boiler Room has been acquired by festival operator Superstruct Entertainment, four years after being acquired by DICE, which continues to be the ticketing partner. Boiler Room will maintain its identity while increasing revenue via events, merchandise, and brand partnerships. Superstruct, which manages over 80 European events, including Sziget and Mysteryland, praised Boiler Room’s cultural impact and hopes to support its future growth.
