SexyTadhg, the Irish fiddler known for high-camp performances, has released a new EP titled SlutTrad, blending pop exuberance with traditional Irish music. At a recent London show, the artist—real name Tadhg Griffin—appeared in a glittering pink corset, channeling cabaret while playing the fiddle. The EP spans rollicking folk-rock, disco, burlesque-y big-band jazz, and blues, showcasing a fearless genre fluidity.
Background and Inspiration
Griffin grew up playing fiddle and singing Sean-nós (old-style Irish) vocals but pulled away in their teens due to a sense that the trad scene lacked space for queer individuals. However, the folk revival and groups like Biird and The Mary Wallopers demonstrated that Irish trad could be inclusive. Griffin's recording of Róisín Dubh, a political standard sung in haunting a cappella, marks a return to Sean-nós singing.
SlutTrad EP Highlights
The EP includes tracks like Townie Girl, a nod to upbeat 2000s Euro house with quickfire lilting lyrics; Therapist’s Knife, featuring Corrs-style harmonies; and Lavender Corcra, with delicate 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.
Other New Tracks This Week
J Hus's Moonlight matches an understated Afro-house beat with a new hoarse vocal register, documenting gun crime. Marina Herlop's Jaque is a majestic orchestration with intricate percussion and choral vocals. Wolf Alice's Gospel Oak features a sombre refrain ahead of their Finsbury Park show. The Big Moon's Gravity is a spiritual sequel to Robyn's Blow My Mind, turned into a love song for a toddler. Ma Sha's Spinmachine offers tough, heads-down drums and high-pressure synths. Topdown Dialectic's False LP A – 10 presents a dub-minded track with velveteen effects. Queen of Jeans' Still Learning hints at 90s shoegaze, like a rough-edged Cranberries song from Philadelphia.
SlutTrad EP is out now, with a UK and Ireland tour starting in October.
