Following a phenomenal talent search, featuring a genre-blending selection of acts from right across the country, Hot Press and the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI) announced the six national finalists for A New Local Hero.

However, there is still a major opportunity open to the 14 artists who didn't make the final six: this year's edition of A New Local Hero also includes a special new element – with all of the regional finalists still in with a chance to be crowned the winner of the Wildcard Award, voted by the public. The Wildcard winner will be awarded a €2,500 bursary. You can cast your vote through the form at the bottom of this page.

Out of the hugely talented 20 regional finalists, Callum Agnew (LMFM), Bobbi Arlo (FM104), Asophonics (KCLR FM), Mia Black (Shannonside / Northern Sound), Jessica Brett (Tipp FM) and Projective (Corks 96FM) were chosen to perform at the live finale showcase event at The Academy in Dublin on October 15.

The other 14 finalists included -  Sonic Minds (Ocean FM), Simple Things (Radio Kerry), Dakota Venn-Keane (South East Radio), Chris Cresham (Galway Bay FM), Lee Wall (Clare FM), Siúcra (MidWest), Ten Hail Marys (Radio Nova), Datqidexcel (Live 95), Dan McCabe (KFM), Coolboy (Midlands 103), Tessio (Highland FM), Melo Bliss (East Coast FM), Washed Out (WLR FM), Emma Noodles (Classic Hits Radio).

As one of the central features of Irish Music Month, A New Local Hero is a major call to arms for Irish musicians and bands – with all 21 participating radio stations having reached out for submissions as part of the talent search.