When it comes to raw, boundless, enterprising energy, the Irish rap and drill scene embraces it like no other movement – and last night, that bold spirit was elevated from underground stardom and major online hype to a renowned Dublin stage, with Monster Sessions at The Workman’s Club, featuring TraviS X Elzzz, Celaviedmai, Rebel Phoenix and DJ Jesse.

Presented by Hot Press, with Monster Energy, the night provided a unique chance to salute the boundary-pushing talent who are – individually and collectively – flying the flag for Ireland on a global stage, with their own totally authentic approach to sounds that originally emerged from rap and drill strongholds in the U.S. and the UK.

Monster Sessions. Copyright Miguel Ruiz

With the venue fitted out in Monster Energy’s iconic green and black, the crowds were swelling along the quays well before doors opened at 8pm – with some of the trend-setting contingent eager to sharpen up their looks even further with a complementary haircut on arrival, courtesy of expert barbers who had travelled over from the UK specially for the event.

Monster Sessions. Copyright Miguel Ruiz

With drinks and snaps secured, the audience moved into the main venue, where Dublin rap titan Rebel Phoenix kicked off proceedings with a set that showcased his remarkable versatility as a performer. A lyricist whose every move and cadence is guided by careful consideration and thought – while still packing a serious punch – he offered up a hugely promising taste of what to expect from his long awaited album, Museum, which is coming soon.

Rebel Phoenix at Monster Sessions. Copyright Miguel Ruiz

Of course, when it comes to versatility and innovation, Celaviedmai remains Ireland's reigning queen. The Galway rapper wasted no time getting the audience pumped up on her irresistibly playful yet expertly delivered energy, with a specially-curated set that drew from fan favourites and newer material alike. She's an artist who's not afraid to change it up stylistically, but she rose to the occasion of the night in especially brilliant style, to showcase the most hard-hitting, high-velocity tracks in her arsenal – jumping into the crowd at one stage to party with the rest of us.

Celaviedmai at Monster Sessions. Copyright Miguel Ruiz

What makes the current Irish rap and drill scene so special is the expansive scope of the vision – with music one of many facets of the brand, and world domination the aim from the get-go. Last night, that enterprising spirit was well-represented by TraviS X Elzzz's Gliders crew, with the Dublin act celebrating the community at the heart of their approach throughout their set.

Whether onstage as a duo and bouncing off each other's irrepressible energy, or inviting friends and collaborators onstage and embracing the brilliant mayhem that followed – including a pop-up appearance from fellow Dublin legend Selló – TraviS X Elzzz proved exactly why they've been tipped for greatness. With the crowd feeding off the unapologetically defiant energy, the pair's live show brought a whole new dimension to their sound – with new single 'HEY U!' a particular stand-out.

TraviS X Elzzz at Monster Sessions. Copyright Miguel Ruiz

After TraviS X Elzzz departed the stage – having offered up a performance that showcased both the originality of their approach, and their ability to compete with heavy-hitters anywhere – DJ Jesse was on hand to carry on the dynamic tone. Having promised us a genre-blending set centred around a strong hip-hop emphasis, and a vibrant groove that fed off the spirit of the crowd, the DJ delivered in spades, with the venue remaining packed out with serious moves and impromptu dance-offs long into the night.

An act, no matter how talented, gets nowhere without a community, and Monster Sessions ultimately proved to be an unforgettable celebration of exactly that – as a toast to the groundbreaking acts who have bypassed all the traditional avenues to bring Ireland's homegrown rap and drill scene from the streets to the world, as well as a crucial recognition of the fans who have been there every step of the way. An extraordinary night across the board.

Monster Sessions. Copyright Miguel Ruiz