photo by Fai WestIrish, London-based experimental pop virtuoso Balderdasch returns to the forefront of the music scene with her latest single, “Homoerotic,” a pulsating electro-industrial anthem that serves as a powerful follow-up to her recent track, “Stillness Gyrating.” This latest offering oscillates between bold bravado and an aching yearning, encapsulating the electric atmosphere of a queer rave, sensual, audacious, and unflinchingly confrontational.
Self-produced by Balderdasch, with collaborative support from Pete Wareham in production and mixing, and the masterful touch of Jamie Hyland of M(h)aol, “Homoerotic” emerges via the esteemed label Apollo. The track is a testament to Balderdasch’s burgeoning reputation for visceral live performances, particularly following her standout appearance at Whelan’s 2026 Ones To Watch Festival in Dublin earlier this month.
Reflecting on her live experience, Balderdasch shared, “I played the song live a few times in Germany before heading to mix it, and the crowd’s reaction made me realise that I wanted the track to slap you in the back of the head with its intensity, both live and on record.”
photo by Fai WestCiting influences from the likes of Kim Gordon, Deli Girls, and Nine Inch Nails, Balderdasch embraces industrial textures and ferocious sonics, pushing boundaries in her soundscape. “We aimed to push the synths and the kick drum to their limits, and Pete Wareham poured his energy into the mix, ensuring the bass would rattle the walls of any club.”
Lyrically, “Homoerotic” navigates themes of repression, insecurity, and the pursuit of self-reinvention. “There’s a pronounced bravado, a ‘fake it till you make it’ outlook. During this process, I immersed myself in a dominatrix’s podcast, which greatly influenced the vibe. It needed to exude sexiness while harbouring an undercurrent of desperation. It’s about performing a character, yet allowing vulnerability to seep through, ultimately focusing on overcoming personal inhibitions to create a renewed sense of self and sensuality.”
The accompanying visualizer takes viewers on a captivating journey between Balderdasch’s London flat and the stunning backdrop of Sherkin Island. Processed through a VHS player by Matt Spratt, the footage takes on a lo-fi, voyeuristic quality that perfectly complements the song’s themes. Reflecting on the experience, Balderdasch confided, “Prancing around the island without trousers was surprisingly liberating, although we narrowly evaded some hikers who might not have appreciated my artistic expression!”
“Writhing half-naked on a couch isn’t my natural state, but confronting that discomfort felt like the ideal representation of what ‘Homoerotic’ is all about.”
photo by Fai WestPrepare to be entranced by Balderdasch’s bold vision and unyielding spirit in “Homoerotic,” the latest testament to her artistry and an exhilarating journey into the heart of modern queer expression.
A headline London show at The Victoria, Dalston, is confirmed for 21 February 2026, with tickets on sale now.
Balderdasch supports Ways of Seeing in her hometown of Cork on 13 February 2026
“Homoerotic” cover art – Photo credit: Fai West ig: @fai.mous
Find Balderdash online (IG / TikTok / X)
