Artists highlight Belfast's thriving music scene at live event

In Belfast, Northern Ireland, a significant event took place involving various musicians celebrating the local music scene as part of the New Music Fix Live at the Ulster Sports Club. Artists like Bicep, Kneecap, OR:LA, SOAK, and TRAMP participated in the occasion. Deb Grant from BBC Radio Ulster emphasized the impressive array of musical talent emerging from the region, noting that much of the new music played on the show comes from Belfast. The event culminated in a special extended show featuring performances from local bands like Enola Gay, Jock, and Dirty Faces before a live audience. Electronic duo Bicep reflected on how the underground music scene, particularly venues like Shine, significantly shaped their careers and musical preferences. Their success also stemmed from the early influences of the analog techno sound prevalent in Belfast, which they struggled to recreate using laptops when they first began producing music. The artists discussed their musical journeys, highlighting how experiences in their formative years influenced their careers. Moglaí Bap shared insights about the impact of the song 'Horse Outside' by The Rubberbandits, which shifted his perspective on the local hip hop scene and his eventual move to Liverpool, where he started to pursue music seriously. Bridie, known for a more intimate indie-folk sound, felt that the Derry music scene provided a supportive environment to be vulnerable as an artist. TRAMP expressed a sense of empowerment coming from their gender-fluid identity, fostering playfulness in their art in a community that values diversity. The event underscored the importance of local venues and communal spaces in nurturing artistic talents and fostering a sense of belonging among artists and audiences alike.