Four Four Magazine

Although ranking tracks and declaring a ‘Best of 2024’ can be subjective, one thing is certain: whenever local legend Dan Ryan announces new music, he’s generally an overwhelming favourite. His most recent release, Cromags, may be his best yet. Ryan creates a true masterpiece by melding tribal rhythms with uplifting chords and poignant vocals, resulting in a composition that would feel right at home on a Hans Zimmer soundtrack. Electronic music has become increasingly flashy and performative, often lacking any mystique it once held. Our Instagram feeds are flooded with every detail of our favourite producers’ lives, many of whom reveal all their secrets in the name of ‘content.’ Yet, when a mysterious artist like Dan Ryan reveals a track of such high calibre, it feels like a beacon of hope. It reminds us that there are still artists out there making extraordinary music who prefer to remain under the radar. Whenever this Irish producer grants us a glimpse of his work, we stop, listen, and rewind repeatedly.