She's Electric: Have we got grooves for you

Possession were among the big new players on the European dance scene in 2019, thanks to a series of memorable events in Paris. The collective plan to run huge parties monthly throughout 2020, and they have some top-notch talent lined up: VTSS, Héctor Hoaks, Anetha, Hadone and Shlømo will now be regular acts. Like Paris’ famed Concrete parties, Possession is an excellent addition to the French capital’s thriving techno scene...

The DGTL Amsterdam festival (April 11 & 12) has revealed an impressive line-up, with Mall Grab and Honey Dijon leading the way. DGTL is planning a number of tasty collaborative, back-to-back performances, including Paula Temple x SNTS and Âme x Marcel Dettman. Of all the fab European festivals this year, DGTL Amsterdam is a must...

Up for some techno tourism with a political twist? Think Bassiani. The defiantly queer nightclub, dubbed the Tbilisi techno mecca, has become an emblem of progressive Georgia, ever since it was raided by police in 2014, prompting massive riots. Bassiani is also celebrated for its very special underground vibe. Countless international DJs have been raving about it, even comparing it with Berlin’s legendary Berghain. If you’re taking a weekend break, head there...

On the home front, the Irish electronica scene has enjoyed huge growth. As in Europe, there has been a particular explosion in techno. In Dublin, there’s no escaping Index and District 8 when it comes to top flight clubbing action. A lot of the best acts are brought over by the Research collective, so keep a close eye on what they’re up to.

There are plenty of other exciting new collectives to check out, including MOTZ, Embedded and FU – who have been putting on house and techno events midweek, where there had been a gap in the mark since the demise of Twisted Pepper, Lost Society and Hangar. Make it a date: Wednesday night parties in the stunning Farrier & Draper venue.

Galway’s Electric Garden & Theatre and Drogheda’s Electric Ballroom are among the leading venues around the country. Down south, meanwhile, Boiler Room stopped off last year in Limerick, where LEAF (the Limerick Electronic Arts Festival) also debuts in March. Overall, 2020 is shaping up to be another belter...