ShivFor those that know, Open Ear is top of the list for many Irish festival goers. Taking place on the idyllic Sherkin Island off the coast of West Cork, it offers pure escapism, breathing new life into electronic music, all set against the backdrop of slow-paced island life.
After a planned twelve month hiatus turned into a three year break, 2022 sees the festival return for the June Bank Holiday weekend. The careful curation of Open Ear is as intriguing as its surroundings. Taking inspiration from the likes of Unsound festival, the programming revolves around one main stage, hosting a line up that celebrates Irish music from the outskirts of the mainstream and the dancefloor. While pop up performances also take place across the island, this approach has ensured an incomparable atmosphere as the intimate audience unites on the dance floor for each act.
For three days the North Shore of Sherkin Island will play host to a selection of debuts, rare live appearances and exclusive performances spanning generations of Irish experimental and electronic music. This year’s lineup features a nearly entirely fresh collection of artists and musicians who take to the stage at Banger Cliff for the very first time.
Cork-born Kerrie, a rising star of modern techno, will perform her debut Irish live show alongside a rare appearance from the hugely influential cult producers Americhord and Decal, playing together as Dechord for just the second time ever.
Across the weekend Baby Nits will take a break from feeding on the Irish scalp to confront us with her punk-flavoured electronix, Tr One will bring his machines to the dance floor for the first time in nearly 10 years and Rob Rua will showcase why Rua Sound and Foxy Jangle have become two of the most important and respected imprints in modern jungle and bass music.
The first round of acts is a taste of what’s in store over the coming months as further artists and special performances will be announced. Expect to be surprised and inspired as unique performances and quality of experience remains at the forefront for this little festival.
Tickets for OE ‘22 have just gone on sale which you can purchase here. Stay updated via their Instagram here.
