Shiv, ‘Late Now’

Combining a captivatingly genre-blending and experimental edge with the potential for a major mainstream breakthrough, the Zimbabwean-Irish artist kicked off 2023 with ‘Late Now’ – created in collaboration with French production duo SuperParka.

Negro Impacto, ‘Mini Excursion’

The opening track from the Dundalk duo’s self-titled debut EP is brimming with their trademark playful energy and the sort of effortless soul sound you can’t help but connect to. Be sure to listen to StrangeLove’s Detour Mix of the track too.

Les SalAmandas, ‘Mary’s Got Issues’

Yet another phenomenal musical force to emerge from Ballydehob, the pair’s latest single – taken from their debut album, There’s A Sea Between Us – is a brilliant blend of folk and indie-pop, with the duo’s natural chemistry shining through their irresistible melodies.

Local Boy, ‘Get Up (Out The Bed)’

Flying the flag for fiercely independent Irish pop – complete with soul, funk, indie-rock and hip-hop influences – the Dublin-based artist released his debut album, Local Boy Climbs The Ladder last year, which featured this tongue-in-cheek gem.

The Mary Wallopers, ‘Eileen Og’

As the Dundalk group’s ever-expanding fanbase attests, today’s young Irish audiences have a huge appetite for thrillingly irreverent folk ballads. Their version of ‘Eileen Og’ proved a hit on The Late Late Show – and should be just as popular on the airwaves.

Sweetlemondae, ‘Higher State’ feat. Jafaris

Brimming with inspiring, feel-good energy and old-school influences, the latest single from the Galway-based MC has all the makings of a major radio hit, both on these shores and beyond. Stay tuned for lots more music this year.

Junk Drawer, ‘Tears In Costa’

Featured on the The Dust Is Here To Stay EP, this track’s a prime example of the Belfast-based art-rock outfit’s ability to navigate underground sounds and mainstream acclaim alike – embracing decades-spanning, genre-defying influences.

Zeztra, ‘Persona’

If it’s dazzlingly polished alt-pop with an exciting international outlook you’re after, then look no further than this sister duo. This track marked them as a unique new force in Irish pop – and there’s lots more music in the pipeline…

Selló, ‘No Love’

Showcasing yet another side of the Dublin drill sensation’s artistry, this was one of the stand-out tracks from his debut mixtape, SellóTape – featuring vocals from Alicia Raye and production from both regular collaborator AyoMax, and Robbie G of another Irish act with huge radio appeal, Belters Only.

Lucy McWilliams, ‘Bumblebees And Blue Skies’

Rapidly emerging as one of the country’s most compelling new vocalists and songwriting talents, the Dublin artist expanded her indie-pop sound with this effortlessly elegant, jazz-flavoured single, released late last year. She returns this month with another gorgeously tender track, ‘Slow Dancing’.

Read the full Irish Music Month special in the new issue of Hot Press, out now.