Irish fiddler Tadhg Griffin, performing as SexyTadhg, has released the 'SlutTrad' EP, a bold fusion of pop exuberance and Irish traditional music that challenges the genre's norms. At a recent London show, Griffin appeared in a glittering pink corset, channeling high-camp cabaret before playing the fiddle, embodying the EP's playful and fearless spirit.
A Homecoming to Sean-Nós Singing
Griffin grew up playing fiddle and singing Sean-nós (old-style Irish) vocals but pulled away in their teen years due to an uneasy sense that the trad scene lacked space for queer individuals. The folk revival and groups like Biird and the Mary Wallopers inspired Griffin to return, recording Róisín Dubh, a standard of Ireland's political music, in haunting a cappella as an arresting homecoming to Sean-nós singing.
The 'SlutTrad' EP: Genre Fluidity and Freedom
The EP spans rollicking folk-rock, disco, burlesque-y big-band jazz, and blues, showcasing Griffin's near-frenetic genre fluidity. Tracks like Townie Girl nod to upbeat alcopop-fueled 00s Euro house with quickfire lilting lyrics, while Therapist’s Knife features Corrs-style harmonies. Lavender Corcra incorporates delicate layers of synth and vocals reminiscent of Anohni. According to Tara Joshi, the unifying element is SexyTadhg's total sense of freedom, queering trad by marrying heart and heritage in a boundless voice.
Other Notable New Tracks
The article also highlights several other new releases. J Hus's 'Moonlight' matches an understated Afro-house beat with a hoarse vocal register, documenting gun crime. Marina Herlop's 'Jaque' offers a majestic, kaleidoscopic orchestration with intricate percussion and choral vocals. Wolf Alice's 'Gospel Oak' features a sombre refrain, departing from hopefulness but maintaining nostalgic introspection. The Big Moon's 'Gravity' is a spiritual sequel to Robyn's 'Blow My Mind,' celebrating the force of a toddler's love. Ma Sha's 'Spinmachine' delivers tough, heads-down drums and high-pressure synths. Topdown Dialectic's 'False LP A – 10' presents dub-minded, elegantly arranged house and techno. Queen of Jeans's 'Still Learning' hints at 90s shoegaze with an airy, rocky sound.
