Live Report: Fintan McKahey on the Hot Press Lockdown Sessions' Y&E Series

Lo-fi indie singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Fintan McKahey graced the Hot Press Instagram last night for the Y&E Series. From Cork, Fintan McKahey has been releasing music since 2016, and playing support slots for the likes of The Scratch, Junior Brother and Róisín O.

His debut EP God Games was released in 2019 to widespread critical acclaim, followed by his 2020 single 'Platinum' – which has clocked up nearly 135,000 streams on Spotify alone.

Opening with the title track God Games, McKahey offered a stunning, stripped-back set from his plant-filled home. He also played 'Lost Balloons', before joking with the audience and explaining his complex set up. He gave a brand new song called 'Resting Place' its live debut, and played 'Cultural Trance'.

Watch the performance back below, and check out the rest of this week's stellar line up.

 

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Friday, April 16: LOCAL BOY
Fusing elements of laidback hip-hop, R&B and smooth funk with off-kilter indie sensibilities, Local Boy – aka Jake Hurley – has been busy crafting some of the most exciting sounds in Irish music in recent years. The Burner Records co-founder’s tracks have scored coveted spots on high-profile Spotify playlists – and his appearance on the Y&E Series coincides with the release of his highly anticipated new single, 'Thoughts', from his upcoming sophomore EP.

Saturday, April 17: ROOUE
Dublin-based pop duo ROOUE – made up of twin sisters Ro and Lou – have rapidly established themselves as one of the most exciting emerging acts on the Irish scene, through their signature blended harmonies and diverse counter melodies. Drawing inspiration from the likes of NAO, Banks and Lennon Stella, the pair brought their sound to thrilling new heights on their latest single, 'Bad Blood', released last month.

Sunday, April 18: FYA FOX
Hailing from the Monaghan/Armagh border region, FYA FOX draws influence from the likes of London Grammar and Lana Del Rey – to present a captivatingly unique electronic pop sound, combined with deeply emotive lyrics. FYA's approach to alternative pop is also informed by her background as a classically-trained vocalist – as evidenced in her latest single, 'Body', which earned widespread airplay and coverage.

Monday, April 19: EMMO
Cork singer-songwriter Emmo, aka Emmett Crotty, has already made a splash in the UK – with a show-stealing appearance on BBC's I Can See Your Voice. Bringing a fresh, genre-defying approach to Irish music, Emmo’s highly anticipated new single, 'Make You Mine', is out on Friday, April 16.