There’s no better way to beat the January blues than by tuning in to new music, especially if it’s coming from queer Irish artists. So, if you’re looking for fresh inspiration for your playlist, we’ve got you covered.

These 10 tracks each offer something unique, from dancefloor anthems to haunting gothic hits. There’s sure to be a song to suit every taste!

Rosalind Anketell – ‘Lily’
The newest single from Irish-Australian singer-songwriter and comedian Rosalind Anketell is an exploration of love and infatuation. Speaking about the release, the artist explained: “Some of my favourite songs are name songs; Jolene, Elenore and Georgia, to name just a few. I wanted to write a ‘name song’ of my own – one that was about a beautiful and universal experience, but was also explicitly queer.”

Tengo presents: Lúnasa All Night Long
Lúnasa has released her All Night Long set from a recent gig in Tengu. The 4-hour special features her unreleased music, as well as R&B, Downtempo, Bass, Breaks, Baltimore, Footwork, Jungle and Experimental Club sounds. The marathon set showcases the Dublin-based DJ and producer’s flair for finding subtle sound links to create remarkable genre blends that spur dynamic, emotional, and uplifting dancefloor moments.

Phoeno – ‘This Could Be‘
Ahead of their upcoming album release later this year, independent Irish duo Phoeno dropped the powerful new single ‘This Could Be’. The song fuses the deep echoes of Irish roots with the luminous pulse of modern synth-wave. In the artists’ own words, “It’s a track born from the raw, unfiltered feeling of injustice – when you’re done taking the high road and just want karma to do her thing.”

Jack Madden – ‘WHITE LIES’
Self-described as ‘Dublin’s #1 Sesh Baby’, Jack Madden is back with another thumping dancefloor track. ‘WHITE LIES’ is the perfect tune to get you in the clubbing spirit, listen below.

The Shruggs – ‘Last Call’
This nostalgic folk/pop anthem captures the magic of closing time in an Irish pub. The song and accompanying music video have all the charm of a traditional session, intertwined with a love story that takes an unexpected twist.

Tayne – ‘Fear’
Noise pop trio Tayne, fronted by Dubliner Matthew Sutton, has released a blistering single ‘Fear’ ft. Rolo Tomassi. The track celebrates and empowers queer authenticity, and comes ahead of the band’s upcoming debut album, LOVE, which will be available from January 31.

Bambie Thug – ‘Fangtasy’
Queer Irish music artist Bambie Thug rounded out an impressive 2024 with the release of ‘Fangtasy’, an exhilarating blend of gothic horror, infectious guitar riffs and rebellious energy. In the accompanying animated music video, the Thug’s dark and supernatural world comes to life, as they face a night of chaos and enchantment at a lavish mansion party.

NIYL – ‘The Fire and the Fuel’
Alt-soul artist NIYL pays tribute to the West of Ireland with his latest release. For the single’s stunning visualiser, the artist teamed up with filmographer Fiach O’Neill to capture the essence of his rural upbringing. “I filmed in Kilkee, a coastal town where I spent my summers and I wanted to pay homage to this place as it was an important part of my life. In discovering my identity, I had many highs and lows and I wanted to acknowledge these moments,” NIYL shared.

M(h)aol – ‘Snare’
Irish intersectional feminist trio M(h)aol has released a new single ‘Snare’. The track is inspired by the band’s lead vocalist and drummer, Constance Keane, and her experience playing the instrument.

Pastiche – ‘Abandon The Planet’
DIY pop artist Pastiche is back with a vulnerable dance track ‘Abandon the Planet’. This is her darkest and most honest single to date, but remains coated in a shimmering pop sheen that the artist wears like armour.

Bonus: Jess Kav – ‘January Lullaby’
Releasing on January 15, this is a tender and honest exploration of healing and self-discovery. Its release marks a year of sobriety that will culminate in Kav’s birthday headliner at The Workman’s Cellar on January 18. Tickets for the gig are here, pre-save the single here.

 

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These are just a selection of the many incredible recent music releases from queer Irish artists. If you think we’ve missed one, get in touch at [email protected].