Chris Cahill, better known by his artist name Porridge, is an Irish electronic music producer, songwriter, sound designer and guitarist. A graduate of BIMM Dublin, he has spent years developing his craft across music production, composition and sound design while building a distinctive presence within Ireland's independent electronic music scene.

Drawing inspiration from artists such as Deadmau5, Jon Hopkins and Flume, Porridge blends industrial electronica, melodic house and cinematic soundscapes to create immersive music that explores technology, isolation and the human experience. His productions are characterised by atmospheric textures, dark electronic rhythms and a strong sense of storytelling, reflecting both his background in sound design and his passion for conceptual music.

Alongside his own releases, Chris has worked as a producer and collaborator with other independent artists while continuing to develop the Porridge project. His experience as a songwriter, producer and guitar tutor has helped shape a broad musical skillset that extends beyond his solo recordings.

Over the past several years, Porridge has released a growing catalogue of original music, earning recognition from Irish music organisations and independent publications. His work has attracted attention for its distinctive blend of electronic production and cinematic composition, helping establish him as one of Ireland's emerging electronic artists.

His latest album, You Don't Belong Here, is a dark, concept-driven body of work exploring feelings of emptiness, disconnection and the impact of technology on modern life. Originally conceived from music written for an unfinished short film about a girl trapped inside a virtual reality headset, the project evolved into a full-length album inspired by a bleak dystopian future where everyday life is increasingly shaped by machines.

As both an artist and producer, Chris continues to push his creative boundaries through thoughtful, immersive electronic music while contributing to Ireland's growing independent electronic community.

Berko is an emerging Irish solo artist carving out a distinct lane between cinematic alt-rock and modern pop production. Formerly the frontman of Stillroom, he steps into his solo era with a confident, evolved sound—one that blends soulful, expressive vocals with expansive, contemporary production.

His debut single Getaway marks a clear statement of intent. Atmospheric and emotionally charged, the track explores themes of escapism and release, building from pulsing rhythms and textured guitars into a powerful, anthemic chorus. It’s a sound that feels both intimate and widescreen—designed to connect as much through feeling as it does through scale.

Behind the scenes, Berko has collaborated with a strong creative team. Getaway was co-written with David Duggan ( Future Fears ) and features contributions from long-time collaborator Dehna Bennett on guitar and session musician Phil Maher on bass. Production comes from Ray Traynor, known for his work with artists such as The Script, Aslan, and OneRepublic, bringing a polished, radio-ready edge to the track.

Early reactions to Getaway highlight its potential impact. Critics have praised its “killer chorus” and “world-class production,” with strong indications that the track is built for wide appeal and repeat listens. 

Now working under RED16 Records, Berko is focused on building a lasting solo identity—one rooted in strong songwriting, consistent releases, and a growing connection with audiences both online and on stage.

With Getaway set for release on May 16th, Berko introduces himself not just as a former frontman, but as an artist fully stepping into his own.

Release: Getaway (Single)
Date: 16 May 2026

Management: RED16 Records
Contact: James Berkeley
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 086 840 2571

Emerging from the Irish alternative rock landscape, Fading Pines is the latest project from longtime collaborators Carl Gillic and Anthony Mulvany. Based between Kells and Dublin, the duo reconnect after more than a decade since their earlier work together in original Irish band The Selections, returning to songwriting with a renewed focus on atmosphere, emotional depth, and lived experience.

Fading Pines occupy a space where cinematic textures meet grounded, guitar-driven rock. Their sound balances restraint and intensity, drawing subtle influence from artists such as Radiohead, Pink Floyd, Tool, Pearl Jam and Chris Cornell — musicians known for pairing expansive sonic worlds with deeply human songwriting.

At the centre of the project is a reflective lyrical approach that explores conflict, fractured relationships, fading youth and the emotional undercurrents of modern life. Rather than leaning on nostalgia, Fading Pines channel these themes into immersive arrangements that gradually build toward moments of catharsis and release.

Their debut single “Now or Never” introduced the band’s atmospheric sound with driving rhythms and expansive melodies, establishing a foundation for the project’s independent ethos. Entirely self-recorded and produced in a home studio, the track highlighted the duo’s commitment to creative control and sonic experimentation.

Released in February 2026, their follow-up single “Wax Cynical” pushes further into cinematic alternative rock territory. The song examines the emotional fallout of a long-standing family feud, building from spacious guitar textures toward a powerful and emotionally charged chorus.

With a series of new releases planned throughout 2026, Fading Pines continue to shape a sound that is both intimate and expansive — rooted in personal experience while resonating with the broader emotional landscape of contemporary life

Oisín Carr is a Donegal-based songwriter crafting anti-folk-tinted indie rock, shaped as much by Hanoi’s late-night chaos as by the Atlantic air back home.

After moving to Vietnam, he spent around five years embedded in Tay Ho’s music scene as guitarist and songwriter for Hanoi band Njüsht, co-creating their 2025 album Vile Sounds and helping shape its off-kilter, guitar-driven sound. Njüsht The band built a strong following locally and earned a support slot for Frank Turner during his Hanoi show, cementing Oisín’s reputation as a sharp live performer and imaginative writer. Facebook

Now back in Donegal, he’s turning that experience inward and stepping out under his own name. His debut EP, Hanoi Hilton, arrives 12 December 2025, a five-track collection tagged between anti-folk and rock that captures stories of dislocation, humour and late-night reflection. Oisín Carr Led by the restless first single “Handcuffs” (out now) and follow-up “Moonlit Avenue”, the record threads wry storytelling through hook-laden arrangements and a distinctly Irish sense of observation. Oisín Carr

Alongside his own releases, Oisín also works as a composer and producer, including creating the jingle for the Bathroom Sink podcast, further underlining his instinct for melody and atmosphere. ryleygraham.substack.com With Hanoi Hilton, he’s staking out his place as one of Ireland’s most intriguing emerging voices — grounded in strong foundations, sharpened abroad, and now fully at home in his own sound.

Alice Lynskey is an Irish singer-songwriter whose music lives where country warmth meets cinematic drama. Born in Dublin and now based in Wexford, she blends classical vocal training with a self-taught guitar style — finding her voice in the space between structure and freedom.

Her influences are as varied as they are defining: the fire of Pat Benatar, the soul of Brandi Carlile, the wit of The Whitlams, and the pop confidence of Britney Spears, Pink, and Shania Twain. The result is a sound that feels familiar yet distinctly her own — emotional, melodic, and unmistakably Irish.

Alice first gained national attention as a finalist on RTÉ’s The Hit, where her song “Run and Hide” was recorded by The Stunning and reached No. 6 in the Irish charts. Since then she has released a series of compelling singles — “Devil in Me,” “Lovesick Rollercoaster,” “Obscene Dreams,” and “The Reason” — each moving between anthemic energy and intimate storytelling.

Her new single, “In the Echoes” (Country Pop / Cinematic), marks a bold evolution. Built on sweeping strings, atmospheric percussion and a haunting vocal performance, the track blends Nashville-style storytelling with a dramatic, film-score edge.
“In the Echoes feels like a Bond theme dressed in country soul — heartbreak wrapped in velvet, drama balanced by grace.”

Alice describes the song as a meeting point of two worlds:
“I wanted it to carry the emotional honesty of country music and the cinematic intensity of something you might hear in a Bond movie. It’s about how memories stay with us, even when everything else fades.”

Away from music, Alice works as a pharmaceutical scientist — a balance of precision and creativity that shapes her approach to songwriting. On stage she is a commanding and radiant performer, having appeared at the Olympia Theatre, 3Arena, The Helix, The Playing Fields (Kildare), Folly Fest (Laois), and festivals across Ireland.

With each release, Alice Lynskey continues to carve a path defined by honesty, emotion, and melodic strength — one heartfelt song at a time.

Hailing from Dublin, Restive Nation emerged in 2014 out of a shared moment of inspiration—four musicians witnessing a transformative live performance by Nine Inch Nails and feeling compelled to create a new sound. myglobalmind.com

What started as an experimental project gradually evolved into a collective that defies easy categorisation: rock, industrial, electronics, trip-hop and progressive elements all merge in their sonic tapestry.

In their early days, Restive Nation embraced a guest-vocalist model—each track a fresh voice, each soundscape a new angle. As one release note described:

“After spending months searching for a vocalist… they decided to do the unthinkable – to have guest vocalists collaborate on different tracks to complement their expanding sound.” myglobalmind.com
This open-ended ethos allowed them to explore a wide range: from tribal-infused textures to ambient grunge, from electronic undertones to dark, metal-tinged crescendos.

By the time their debut EP We Atrophy appeared in 2018, and the follow-up EP Lucidum in 2020, the band had coalesced into a more defined lineup and sound. The single “Coma” encapsulated this transition: rooted in the influence of Nine Inch Nails, Tool and Linkin Park, it tackled internal struggle and identity in a style that is as cinematic as it is visceral. myglobalmind.com

Their 2022 full-length debut, Restive Nation, marked a deeper step forward: ten tracks that span hard rock, electronica, progressive structures and thematic weight. In one review the bassist Timmy Lynch described the track “The Marionettist” as:

“a trip-hop infused progressive rock track … influences ranging from Massive Attack, Oceansize and Karnivool.” RAMzine
Lyrical themes across the album probe duality, identity, transformation and the tension between the human and the machine:
“They seem to press the same narrative until it becomes all they talk about … You can barely even hear them.” (on the track “Counterfeit”) RAMzine

Today, Restive Nation stand as a band unafraid to blur genres, to challenge their audience, and to create immersive sound-worlds that reward repeated listening. Their live performances are described as ambitious and atmospheric, underlining that this is a collective more interested in journey than in formula.e audio-visual identity around their music.

Upcoming Release

Restive Nation continue to evolve their sound, and their next chapter arrives with “The Fortune of Suffering,” their forthcoming single. Set for release on November 28th, the track dives deeper into the band’s signature fusion of electronic intensity and progressive rock atmosphere — a reflection of their ongoing drive to push into darker, sharper and more emotionally charged territory.

A Note From the Band

If you enjoyed our last single Just Like You, thank you — genuinely. But we should warn you: you might not feel the same about the next one. It’s… well… very long by today’s standards. The intro stretches on forever, it moves at its own slow burn, none of the verses match, and just when you think it’s finished, it kicks back in all over again.

Sorry about that.
But honestly?
We think it’s pretty great.

Recent Releases

Here are some of their more recent published works:

• “Just Like You” (2025, Single) — A release noted for its ’90s-industrial rock-flavoured vibe and disciplined fusion of aggression and melody.
• “The Exorcist Theme” (2025, Single) — A reinterpretation of the classic film theme, rendered through their electronic-rock lens, showcasing their experimental side.
• Album: Restive Nation (2022) — Their full debut album, containing tracks like “White Ural” (based on the 1959 Dyatlov Pass incident) that highlight heavier and darker territories. Bloody News
• EP: Lucidum (2020) — Five-track EP featuring “Coma”, “Tapetum”, “The Prouder Ones”, etc. Rock Regeneration

London-based Industrial Noise Pop band TAYNE spent 2025 solidifying their reputation as one of the UK and Ireland’s most fearless experimental acts. Fronted by Tralee-born musician Matthew Sutton, the group blend alluring pop melodies with violent synths, crushing beats, and ghostly vocals — a striking contrast that turns chaos into something cathartic.

“We love extreme metal music,” says Sutton, “but there’s something more exciting when you’re trying to create something that isn’t what everyone else is doing.”

TAYNE’s sound sits between the glamour of Lady Gaga and the grit of Nine Inch Nails — unapologetically theatrical yet heavy enough to shake a venue’s foundations.

A Defining Year

After releasing their debut album LOVE in early 2025 via MNRK / Inside Job, TAYNE launched an ambitious run of shows across Ireland and the UK. The album earned glowing reviews from the rock and metal press, with Metal Hammer calling it “clanging industrial that bridges Godflesh and Gaga,” and Kerrang! awarding it 4 / 5, praising its “ghostly, cinematic soundscape that moves from delicate to devastating in a heartbeat.”

The band kicked off 2025 with a standout performance at Supersonic Block Party (France), followed by festival appearances at 2000 Trees, ArcTanGent, and Portals. Their high-energy Irish tour in the autumn included packed shows in Dublin, Galway, and Tralee — a symbolic homecoming for Sutton.

TAYNE also unveiled their industrial-tinged cover of Jefferson Airplane’s “Somebody to Love” this year, reimagining the psychedelic classic as a dark, mechanical anthem. The track premiered through Grimm Gent (read feature) and highlighted the band’s knack for turning vintage pop into something visceral and new.

Critical Acclaim

The release of LOVE brought a wave of critical attention across UK and Irish media:

• Metal Hammer (8 / 10): “Clanging industrial that bridges Godflesh and Gaga.” Read review
• Kerrang! (4 / 5): “A ghostly, cinematic soundscape that moves from delicate to devastating in a heartbeat.” Read review
• Metal Hammer Feature: “A fearless collision of pop sensibility and industrial power.” Read feature
• GoldenPlec: “Irish Kerrang! favourites Tayne return home for a blistering live tour.” Read article

The band’s unique sound has also been spotlighted by BBC Radio 1’s Rock Show, Legacy Magazine (DE), and in The Irish Times’ “Soundtrack to 2025” feature, naming TAYNE among the artists defining Ireland’s next wave.

The Sound and the Vision

TAYNE’s art thrives on contrast — soft vocals under waves of distortion, beauty balanced against noise. Live, that tension explodes: strobing visuals, feedback loops, and the visceral energy of a project that turns vulnerability into voltage.

Their work continues to evolve, bridging pop precision and industrial chaos in ways few bands dare to attempt. As they look ahead to 2026, TAYNE are already hinting at new collaborations and a darker, more cinematic sound on the horizon.

Blending Motown-inspired soul with sleek, atmospheric noir-pop, Dublin singer-songwriter Chelle has quickly established herself as one of Ireland's most distinctive contemporary voices. Her music combines emotionally rich songwriting with a warm, unmistakable vocal style that balances vulnerability, confidence and cinematic atmosphere.

Raised in a home filled with the sounds of soul and Motown, Chelle developed an early appreciation for artists who told honest stories through music. Influenced by the likes of Amy Winehouse, Norah Jones and Leonard Cohen, she has crafted a sound that honours timeless songwriting while embracing a modern, internationally appealing production style.

After years performing with live bands and as a solo artist across Ireland and Europe, Chelle's recording career has gathered remarkable momentum.

Her breakthrough release, Ain't Lovin' You, secured a coveted placement on BBC Introducing and generated more than 60 industry offers within just 48 hours, marking a significant turning point in her career and attracting attention from both media and music industry professionals.

She followed that success with Trouble, her most atmospheric and cinematic release to date. Blending dark noir-pop textures with soulful influences and contemporary synth production, the single quickly gained international traction, earning widespread curator support and expanding her reach across radio networks in Ireland, the UK and the United States. On 14 June 2026, Trouble made its official Irish radio debut, including airplay on Dublin City FM.

Critical recognition has continued to follow.

EARMILK described Chelle as "an international rising star", praising a voice with "the sort of authority that could make her an international pop rising star."

Plastic Magazine celebrated her "sensational, luscious voice, dripping with honey and defiance", while Illustrate Magazine wrote that she "defies the Irish coast musical style and embraces the world."

The Interviewist declared that Chelle has "well and truly emerged and is officially the one to watch", while Obscure Sound praised her music as "a personality-filled slice of noir-pop" with "sincere heart and replay-inducing strength."

Alongside continued support from BBC Introducing, her music has also been featured by Hot Press, Extra.ie and a growing number of international music publications, reflecting an artist whose audience continues to expand beyond her Irish roots.

Despite the growing recognition, authenticity remains at the centre of everything Chelle creates. Every song is grounded in honest emotion and genuine storytelling, delivered with a vocal style that effortlessly bridges classic soul influences and contemporary pop.

Her journey began with the release of her debut single, Kiss Me Again, introducing listeners to her expressive songwriting and soulful vocal style. An international remix collaboration with Turkish DJ Umut Baycu followed soon after, providing an early indication of her growing international appeal and laying the foundations for the darker, more cinematic musical identity that defines her work today.

With an expanding international audience, growing critical acclaim and an evolving catalogue of distinctive releases, Chelle continues to build a reputation as one of Ireland's most exciting independent artists, with a sound that is uniquely her own and a career gathering momentum on the global stage.

Kíba (Caela Murphy) is an Irish indie-pop and synth-wave artist from Tramore, County Waterford whose musical journey began in childhood among the concertina, tin whistle, and bodhrán. A trained classical pianist, she was writing original songs by age thirteen—and released her first single, “Lost at Sea,” at sixteen to support Focus Ireland.

She refined her performance in Tramore’s local music venues before graduating from BIMM Dublin, where she further honed her blend of indie-pop and cinematic sound. By nineteen, she was composing music for student films and scored her first feature by twenty-one.

Her upcoming single, “Rosary,” slated for release on 19 September 2025, marks a bold evolution—layering synths, electric guitar, and choir to craft a deeply dramatic and emotionally resonant track.

Twice named Best Songwriter in Waterford County at the Irish Youth Music Awards, Kíba has performed at iconic venues including Croke Park and the 3Arena, and opened for Eleanor McEvoy. Her work has been featured on WLR and Beat Radio, accompanied by visually arresting music videos.

An award-winning film composer with two international and one local accolade for Best Composer, she also explores new creative territory under her alter-ego DOLLFACE, releasing experimental singles that explore emo, metal, and even screamo textures.

“Kíba music is the language in which the universe was written,” she reflects—a fitting description of her evolving and expressive sonic universe.

Some artists quietly earn your respect over time — Larissa Tormey is one of those. I’ve followed her for nearly a decade, and I’ve watched a journey unfold that deserves recognition.

Born and raised in Russia, Larissa was classically trained in both piano and voice. Music was always at her core. But her story took a profound turn over 20 years ago when she relocated to Ireland, settling in County Westmeath. It was here, far from her roots, that Larissa began building a new life — and a bold new musical path.

At first, she brought her talents into the community as a choir conductor and wedding singer. But Larissa didn’t stop there. She embraced the Irish country and western scene with open arms, letting it influence her while staying true to her own voice. In a space that often feels close-knit and tradition-bound, she carved out a place for herself with persistence, grace, and originality.

Her songwriting stood out to me from the beginning. There’s a quiet power in how she crafts songs — full of emotion, honesty, and depth. Over the years, I’ve seen her evolve from interpreter to creator, from performer to storyteller.

A Full-Circle Moment: Eurovision 2025

That journey has now come full circle with her co-writing of “Laika Party” — Ireland’s Eurovision 2025 entry. The song, performed by Norwegian artist Emmy, is an ode to Laika, the Soviet space dog — a symbol that Larissa, no doubt, deeply understands. It’s upbeat yet bittersweet, quirky yet profound. And it’s a perfect reflection of her ability to blend personal meaning with universal appeal.

🎶 Watch "Laika Party" Larissa's Acoustic version and the official finished track.

More Than a Performer

Larissa’s success isn’t just about one song. She’s released a steady stream of music that spans genres, moods, and messages. Some personal favourites in my playlist.

Beyond performing, Larissa is a champion of other Irish artists. She’s hosted podcasts, spotlighted fellow musicians, and used her platform to lift others. That generosity says a lot about her character.

A Personal Connection

I had the pleasure of meeting Larissa during a “Simon Gigs” charity event I hosted in Mullingar for the homeless. She not only performed — she showed up with heart and humility. It told me everything I needed to know about who she is off-stage: genuine, compassionate, committed.

She doesn’t just sing from the heart — she lives that way too.

I don’t usually dedicate special features like this on Musibiz, but Larissa deserves the spotlight. She’s walked a long road — across countries, cultures, and genres — and she’s done it with authenticity and grace.

Discover Larissa Tormey

Whether you’re a fan of Irish music, heartfelt ballads, or simply a great story told through song, Larissa Tormey is someone you should know.

• 🌐 Official Website
• 📺 YouTube Channel
• 📷 Instagram
• 👍 Facebook

From her classical roots in Russia to her creative blossoming in the heart of Ireland, Larissa Tormey’s journey is one worth following. Her music reflects life’s complexities — of movement, transformation, and connection — and if you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to start listening.