Irish artists and bands that should be on your radar.

The Irish music scene has been making waves in the global media, with chart-topping artists such as Fontaines DC, Kneecap, and Inhaler. Countless up-and-coming, talented Irish bands and artists are steadily gaining recognition beyond Ireland. Here’s my comprehensive list of Irish acts that should be added to your Spotify playlist.

FIONA O’CONNELL

Fiona O’Connell hails from Clare and is an exceptionally talented singer-songwriter and producer. Her debut single ‘Easily’, released in February 2023, amassed thousands of listeners, putting her on the map. Fiona has molded the folk genre into something uniquely personal, focusing on intricate and heartfelt lyrics. Fiona’s music takes you on an emotional journey, offering a quiet space to reflect. I had the pleasure of watching Fiona’s set at the Grand Social in Dublin, armed with just a guitar, she’s capable of captivating an entire audience.

For fans of: Lizzy McAlpine, Hozier, and Phoebe Bridgers

Song to start with: “In the end”

LUCY MCWILLIAMS

Lucy McWilliams is a singer-songwriter from South Dublin. Lucy is an incredibly versatile artist whose music blends Indie, Folk, and Jazz influences. After relocating to London, Lucy immersed herself in the UK music scene. She’s a gifted lyricist, and the way Lucy writes has a way of evoking buried emotions. I first saw Lucy open for Inhaler at the Olympia Theatre in Dublin. I came for Inhaler but left as a fan of hers. Her latest single, “The Greatest Man,” is nothing short of amazing. Every time I listen to it, it hits me in a way that feels both familiar and otherworldly.

For fans of: Laufey and Olivia Dean

Song to start with: “Plastic”

DISORDER

Disorder is David England, Ewan McAra, Michael Tinnelly, and Jack Porter. They are a four-piece Alternative/Indie band based in Belfast. Disorder has gained serious traction since the release of their debut single “Pretty, Pretty, Pretty”. They took Belfast by storm, cementing themselves as key artists in the Northern Irish music scene. Disorder didn’t stay confined to Belfast, they’ve played various live shows throughout Ireland and in the UK. Their EP “Summerhouse” is a must-listen, frontman David England’s distinct vocal edge sets the EP apart. I discovered Disorder by accident while at Fred Zeppelin’s in Cork. They were playing, and I instantly fell in love with their sound.

For fans of: Inhaler and Wunderhorse

Song to start with: “Millennial Dreaming”

SODA BLONDE

Soda Blonde is Faye O’Rourke, Adam O’Regan, Dylan Lynch, and Donagh Seaver-O’Leary. Formed in Dublin, this Alternative/pop band has released two successful albums, “Dream Big” and “Small Talk”. Frontwoman Faye O’Rourke’s voice is distinctly unique, raw, and compelling. Their debut album “Small Talk” is a whirlwind of emotion, when listening you’re unsure if you want to cry or dance. With a sold-out European tour under their belt, the band is steadily gaining recognition beyond Ireland.

For fans of: Bleach Lab and Sunday (1994)

Song to start with: “Terrible Hands”

LITTLE KNOWN

Little Known are Liam Daly, Finn Walsh, and Liam Berry. Formed in Cork, Little Known’s debut Album “As it is” is a striking introduction to the band’s sound. With guitar-driven tracks, the album gained Little known well-deserved recognition in the Cork music scene. There’s something almost nostalgic about them, they remind me of the Indie bands I grew up listening to, but yet they’re completely different. Little known have carved out their own identity, and they’re undeniably natural-born performers. I had the pleasure of seeing Little Known’s set in Fred Zeppelins, Cork. It was one of the most enjoyable gigs I’ve been to.

For fans of: Slowdive and Nirvana

Song to start with: “Listen”

KATE FIELD

Kate Field is a singer-songwriter based in Dublin. Kate’s debut EP “And The Persian Rugs” is a deep reflection of a life lived with all its highs and lows. Notably, her single “21st Century Whore” explores the darker side of love. She captures her experience with toxic relationships, and the way she conveys it makes it incredibly relatable for anyone who has struggled with heartbreak. Kate’s transparency is what sets her apart as an artist.

For fans of: Lana Del Ray and Alanis Morisette

Song to start with: “Party Pleaser”