Eurosonic Noorderslag: Five New Acts To Look Out For At ESNS 2022

Us Clash lot can’t think of a better remedy to a few too many hours spent scoffing chocs and staring at the tele box, then heading off to pastures new for some fresh music. Luckily Eurosonic Noorderslag is here to get 2022 started with a bang. One of the biggest and most respected new music showcases in Europe, the forthcoming lineup is as stacked as ever, and we, for one, can’t wait to get stuck in.

From future pop divas to those merging ethnic folk with the most contemporary electronica, the city of Groningen, located in the northern Netherlands, is offering a sonic feast to suit all tastes. With over 350 European artists and 40,000 visitors about to descend upon the city, it’s a near-impossible task to choose who you’re going to see, but never fear, we’ve got some choice selections for you. While we could happily discuss 50 of these up and comers, here are five we think will get your ears and hearts singing.

– – –

Bob Vylan

This London duo has been on our radar for a while. Asides from making Grade A punk rap that tackles racism and all other societal ills, their stomping single ‘We Live Here’ has the best use of the C-word we’ve heard in many a moon.

Known for their riotous live shows and fiercely independent stance, they’ll provide anyone who’s lagging in energy a real wake-up call. Recently supporting The Offspring and taking the stage at Wembley Arena, we suggest seeing these boys in a smaller venue while you still can.

– – –

Albertine Sarges

Dropping her debut last January, Berlin Based singer-songwriter Albertine Sarges has been making waves with her brand of off-kilter post-punk.

While her songs deal with everything from sexuality, feminist theory, friendship, and depression, the tunes themselves often bounce along with a knowing sense of humour. These are matched by her DIY aesthetic music videos, which share a lot of that 80s charm the medium had in its infancy. After jumping from collaborative project to project, Sarges is finally building a freewheeling world of her own, and we can’t wait to have some more.

– – –

Derby Motoreta’s Burrito Kachimba

There’s a host of Spanish talent on offer at this year’s showcase, but perhaps none are more attention-grabbing than the bafflingly but brilliantly named Derby Motoreta’s Burrito Kachimba. An intoxicating mixture of psychedelic madness and retro Andalusian rock, the band delivers impassioned anthems that can’t help but let their freak flag fly.

Imagine King Gizzard got stuck into some hallucinogens with a few members of The Darkness, and you’re halfway there vibe-wise.  

With their second album, ‘Hilo Negro’ recently topping the vinyl chart in Spain, their originality and sense of fun have definitely struck a chord on home soil. We can’t wait to see what they do live.

– – –

Eydís Evensen

Helping highlight the diversity of what’s on offer is the booking of entrancing Icelandic artist Eydís Evensen. A pianist and post-classical composer, her exceptional debut record ‘Bylur’ landed this year, helping keep many listeners (including this writer) calm during 2021’s more chaotic moments. A stunning KEXP performance from the summer has already racked up over a million-and-a-half views, and she later went on to perform at The Royal Albert Hall. Inspired by the forces of nature, her arrangements can flow from soothing one moment to heartbreaking the next. If you like your music to transport you elsewhere, don’t miss this set.

– – –

Dragonfruit

Fans of KAYTRANADA shouldn’t miss getting their groove on to the neo-soul of Dragonfruit. Anchored by the smooth as silk voice of lead singer Danique van der Vlugt, The Netherland four-piece boasts some serious chops.

Their debut ‘Gears of Giant Machine’ dropped in October and is well worth checking out if the modern combo of sample-heavy hip hop and R&B floats your boat. With bouncy rhythms and twinkling electronics, the band is rocking a contemporary sound while conjuring some old-school swagger for those who can’t get enough of the 90s golden age. Without a doubt, this outfit has the recipe for future big success.

– – –

Eurosonic Noorderslag runs between January 19th – 22nd.

Words: Sam Walker-Smart

– – –