Kneecap, the Irish rap trio known for their wild energy and biting humour, have kicked off 2025 with a bang, treating us to an updated mix of their fan-favourite track ‘H.O.O.D.’ alongside two additional remixes.
First released in 2021, the original has become a cornerstone of the band’s live shows, often closing sets with its chaos-inducing energy.
The 2025 refresh, premiered on Jack Saunders’ BBC Radio 1 New Music Show, is now joined by remixes from London-based producer Sam Interface and Heavenly Records’ stalwarts Working Men’s Club.
Sam Interface brings a gritty, lo-fi flavour to the table, with heavy drum and bass beats designed to push your speakers to their limits.
Speaking about his approach, Sam said, “I loved the aggression and energy of the original version of Kneecap’s ‘H.O.O.D.’ I thought it would be really fun to reimagine the track as a gritty, lo-fi, dance floor banger! I think you can hear influences of early grime, jungle techno, and Chicago footwork as well as my own signature flavour.”
Meanwhile, Working Men’s Club crank up the chaos with a relentless rhythm that transports ‘H.O.O.D.’ into a frenzied, strobe-lit Friday night in a Northern nightclub. The duo’s remix adds a pounding intensity to Kneecap’s already high-octane sound, cementing the track as a must-hear for fans.
The remixes are part of a seven-track release, including instrumental versions, a radio mix, and more. Fans can also look forward to an exclusive limited-edition 7” vinyl, with details expected to land soon via the band’s mailing list.
Festivals, arena shows, and more in 2025
Beyond the studio, Kneecap are set for a monster year of live performances. Their summer calendar includes headline slots at London’s Wide Awake Festival and 2000 Trees, alongside appearances at top international events like Denmark’s Northside Festival, the Netherlands’ Best Kept Secret, and Hungary’s Sziget Festival. In December, the trio will play their biggest indoor show yet at Dublin’s 13,000-capacity 3Arena.
With their acclaimed 2024 debut album Fine Art still fresh in fans’ minds, Kneecap are already recording its follow-up. Produced by Toddla T, Fine Art showcased the trio’s unique blend of Irish and English lyrics over a backdrop of chaotic, darkly comedic tales of hedonism and social commentary. The album’s critical acclaim and relentless energy propelled Kneecap onto global stages, including a sold-out U.S. tour and a show-stopping Glastonbury set.
Kneecap on screen
The band’s success isn’t limited to music. Their self-titled feature film has been racking up awards and nominations, including six BAFTA nods and 17 IFTA nominations, alongside a staggering 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. With Michael Fassbender co-starring, the film has drawn comparisons to Trainspotting and 8 Mile, further cementing Kneecap’s place as cultural disruptors.
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- 3Arena Dublin
- Fine Art
- HOOD 2025
- Irish Hip-Hop
- Kneecap
- Sam Interface
- Wide Awake Festival
- Working Men’s Club
