Having just released the excellent 'Nobody 2.0' single and the collaborative mixtape Alphabet last year, Alicia Raye delivered a stunning, laidback set last night on the Hot Press Y&E Series.

Taking a unique approach, she broke up her songs by talking directly to the audience – bringing a powerful, positive energy to the whole performance.

She also has the tunes and the talent to go with this positivity. 'Close To Me' was one of the set's highlights, with Alicia showcasing her brilliant vocals over the beat – courtesy of her off-camera producers.

Playing tracks in a small room illuminated by with psychedelic lighting, the performance often felt like watching an intimate late-night studio session. It was exciting to see an artist like Alicia bring such remarkable charisma to Y&E Series.

In what has been a banner year so far for Irish hip-hop, the Drogheda musician could very well be the next big star to rise to the top.

Watch Alicia Raye's Y&E Series set below:

 

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The Hot Press Y&E Series is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. Watch the performances live every night on the Hot Press Instagram (@hotpressmagazine) at 7.30 pm.

Tuesday, August 17: WALLFELLA

With his smooth, old school-inspired flow, Wallfella is emerging as one of the most captivating voices in Irish hip-hop. Combining chilled-out vibes with thoughtful, socially conscious commentary, the Dublin rapper has been releasing music since 2016 – and draws influence from the likes of Lethal Dialect, Kendrick Lamar and Dave. He released his widely praised third project, Way Too Cosy, last month. The EP, which follows his brilliant collaboration with Odd Numbers on ‘Blue’, was recorded in a garden shed over lockdown – a testament to Wallfella’s fiercely DIY ethos.

Wednesday, August 18: KY

Originally hailing from the Democratic Republic of Congo, and raised in Ireland, KY is fast becoming one of the country's most hotly tipped talents. The video for his breakout single, 'Foreign' – which fused French and English lyrics over an irresistible drill-influenced beat – has already clocked up over 36,000 views. After taking a few months to perfect his craft, the rapper, singer and songwriter returned this year with 'iSPY', which once again finds him bringing his own unique flavour to the Irish scene. Stay tuned for a brand new track from KY – expected very soon...

Thursday, August 19: ALI COMERFORD

After touring the world performing viola in classical ensembles for 14 years, Ali Comerford returned to her native Kilkenny during lockdown last year, to record her acclaimed debut album, Knots – featuring folk-based, classical-influenced original songs, entirely written, sung, played and produced by herself. Ali's journey in music has taken her to New York’s Carnegie Hall, London’s Royal Albert Hall and Dublin’s National Concert Hall – but after spending the last decade of her life playing other people's music, the time has come for her to step into the spotlight as a solo artist. Hot Press described Knots as "a beautifully orchestrated debut."