Belfast-based DIY feminist queerpunk quartet, Problem Patterns, took the big award at another exciting NI Music Prize.
The Ulster Hall was once again packed with musicians, industry professionals and music fans as we celebrated another twelve years of incredible music from our shores. Cara Dillon, Dana Masters, Huartan, JC Stewart, Reevah & TRAMP performed throughout the night and demonstrated the hugely diverse scene we have at present.
The most coveted award of the night, Album of the Year, went to Problem Patterns with their debut record ‘Blouse Club’. A record that pulls no punches with it’s razor sharp commentary on big social issues.
JC Stewart took home Single of the Year for ‘Hey Babe, I’m a Mess, I’m Sorry’. A very welcome return to form for the songwriter after a difficult few years without releasing music.
On the live front it must have been near impossible to separate the contenders but self proclaimed tradtronica outfit Huartan took the honours. No doubt helped by a truly mesmerising show for Samhain just a few weeks prior.
Esmeralda Road took home the BBC ATL Introducing award. The band won single of the year in 2023 and have continued to build on that momentum with new music and even supporting Liam Gallagher on tour.
The other main prize of the night, Video of the Year went to Jordan Adetunji for ‘Kehlani’. With a recent Grammy nomination under his belt, it was nice to see Jordan receive some recognition at home too.
The evening also saw Eric Bell receive the Oh Yeah Legend Award ahead of the release of new unheard Thin Lizzy material while Gerry Anderson posthumously received the Outstanding Contribution to Music award.
Well done to the Oh Yeah and their team for putting together another incredible showcase for the music scene in Northern Ireland. We can’t wait to do it all again next year!
