Belfast's own Oh Yeah Music Centre unveils the latest edition of its annual talent development programme, Scratch My Progress, with the release of this year's showcase EP. Featuring tracks from four of Northern Ireland's most promising musical talents, the EP represents the culmination of months of dedicated mentorship and support.

The acts highlighted in this year's lineup are HY:LY, Beat Up Car, Garrett Laurie, and Martha Greer. These emerging artists have honed their craft as part of the Scratch My Progress programme, which runs from September to May each year. Supported by the PRS Foundation, the programme provides invaluable mentorship, showcase opportunities, and practical support to new music talents.

Since its beginning twelve years ago, Scratch My Progress has cultivated a diverse range of talent across various genres, including rock, alternative, acoustic, rap, pop, punk, folk, and electronic music. Past participants have gone on to achieve significant success, with notable figures like NI Music Prize Winners Ferna, Sasha Samara, and Sister Ghost emerging from the programme.

The support for Scratch My Progress extends beyond the Oh Yeah Music Centre, with support from organizations like the Arts Council Northern Ireland and Belfast City Council. Throughout the years, participants have benefited from personalized sessions with industry experts and organizations such as PRS, PPL, PRSF, YouTube Music, and many more.

Each artist featured in this year's EP brings a unique sound and perspective to the table:

HL:LY “HY:LY blends the dance floor percussion of techno & drum & bass with elements of psychedelic rock, via her own vocal delivery and field recordings to create an abstract melting pot of energy.” - Resident Advisor

Martha Greer “The songs are exceptionally reflective and I hear a yearning in the words that comes only from being at the cusp of 18” - Dig With It

Garrett Laurie
“Having grown up singing in church folk groups, the Belfast-based artist’s folk-pop craft – and exquisite vocal delivery – is proving every bit as gossamer as it is quietly beatific.” - The Thin Air

Beat Up Car Beat Up Car are really very brand new so they are starting with a crisp blank page and we will help them chalk it up with lots of new appreciation for their emotive indie pop that hooked us on the first listen.

As the music industry continues to evolve, initiatives like Scratch My Progress play a crucial role in nurturing emerging talent and fostering creativity. The release of this year's EP marks another milestone in Northern Ireland's vibrant music landscape, showcasing the diverse voices and sounds shaping the future of the industry.

Listen to the Scratch My Progress Vol. 12 EP here: