On Our Radar Q&A - Becky McNeice: "In Belfast’s history, music has always been something that’s brought people together"

What’s the vibe of Popular Loner2?

It’s the “more mature” follow-up to Popular Loner from last year. I’m bringing more of a punk, pop-rock energy than a sad electronic vibe. I also think it’s a wee bit more cheeky and a lot more confident.

You’ve opened for the likes of Biig Piig and have your own headline show coming up in June. What are your live performances like?

Sometimes people can get a bit shy at gigs, so I like to keep things as light-hearted as possible. This past year, I’ve been playing with a band called Sparkle, which has been great, because before that I was just playing off a recording. Playing everything live gives a whole new life to my sound.

You’ve collaborated with F3miii and Still Searching. Are there any other emerging acts you’re into?

There’s this artist called Annie Dog, who has a really interesting writing style. I would love to see her do well; I really like her pop sound mixed with a bit of alternative edge. She’s definitely my favourite artist on the island right now.

I really enjoy being able to showcase collaborative chemistry. It’s a bit trickier than normal songwriting, but it’s beautiful to see how different styles can fit together. When you work with other people, I feel you’re less critical of what comes about.

Tracks like ‘4Ever’ shout out your hometown directly. How has Belfast inspired your music?

In Belfast’s history, music has always been something that’s brought people together. Now with the rise of fascism and transphobia, resistance music has become very influential to me.

• Popular Loner 2 is out now. Becky McNeice plays Whelan’s, Dublin on June 18.