Set to take place between January 19th and 22nd, Netherlands event ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag) is one of Europe's key new music showcases and arguably sets the tone for the year ahead.

Fans had hoped to see ESNS physically return to the streets of Groningen this month, but the Omicron variant of the Covid pandemic halted live performances in their tracks. Lockdown restrictions in the Netherlands mean that the in-person aspect of Eurosonic Noorderslag simply can't be done.

Not to worry, however. Livestreams can be just as powerful, as proven by last year's hugely successful virtual festival and digital conference.

Irish acts slated to perform at this year's event include Denise Chaila, For Those I Love, Kynsy, Dea Matrona, 49th & Main, John Francis Flynn, Smoothboi Ezra, Sprints, Cian Ducrot, Chonchúr White and CMAT. Other acts from across Europe include Self Esteem, Wet Leg, Daði Freyr, Sylvie Kreusch, ascendant vierge, Froukje, Mimi Webb, Meskerem Mees, Yard Act, Wu-Lu and Travis Birds. The full line-up is available here.

Managing director Dago Houben released a statement in December confirming the digital aspect of 2022's event.

“ESNS is of great importance to the entire music industry and especially to European musicians. It is therefore essential to carry out our function of providing the best possible platform for European pop music. Earlier this year we saw that the reach of a digital edition can be huge and that we were able to make a difference to an artist's career. We are therefore pleased to give all booked ESNS artists the exposure they deserve with the help of our media partners.”

Following the impact of the pandemic, the overall theme of ESNS 2022 is 'Building Back Better Together'.

Registration for ESNS 2022 is open now, via the ESNS website. There are a limited number of tickets available at the Early Bird rate of €275 (a discount of €150 on the walk-up rate of €450). Delegates who bought a ticket for the digital edition last year will receive a €50 discount, and tickets for Young Professionals (up to 28 years) are available for €225.

Visit esns.nl for more information.

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