Those that remember the Button Factory from 2008-10 remember it was synonymous with Dublin’s best electronic music night in the form of Muzik on Thursday night. For many it was our first sojourn into electronic music, it was fresh and it was bloody exciting, from the walk down to Curved street, to the club itself. With a vast balcony to survey and take in the subtle nuances that were so new to us occurring on stage and an excellent dance floor to express yourself in whatever way your situation demanded.

Returning to the venue after 4 years was nostalgic to say the least, but in many ways appropriate especially considering the man I was going to see. Nicolas Jaar for me embodies how the underground scene has developed over the years, refined yet wholly experimental, but fundamentally welcoming, for those into electronic music and beyond. Jaar’s Dj set incorporated an energy that his live set’s usually lack due to the sombre nature of most of his tracks, however sipping on his casual glass of wine Jaar played an eclectic mix of his own and various other tunes, mixing with an energy and subtle skill that had everyone vibing on a packed dance floor. Moving up to the balcony, watching the crowd heave left to right, affected almost hypnotically by a flick of his fader or a press of a button always is a positive experience and Jaar had most in the palm of his hand. No doubt, it was a fitting set for an excellent venue.

Words by Danny Sullivan