Picture this: you’re at a summer rooftop party, the sun’s dipping below the horizon, and a track drops that instantly gets everyone moving. That’s Promise, the electrifying debut single from Belfast’s own Martha Dark. This nu-disco and deep house banger has already racked up 150k Spotify streams and earned a spot on TraxSource’s Best of Summer 2023 alongside heavyweights like Floorplan and ANOTR. If you’re craving a dose of nineties Chicago house with a modern twist, let me introduce you to your next playlist must-have.
A Sizzling Debut That Channels Nineties Nostalgia
Promise is a love letter to the golden era of house music, infused with euphoric disco vibes and a gospel-inspired message that hits deep. From the moment the track kicks off, you’re greeted with pulsating synth stabs, glitchy laser effects, and retro vocal hooks that scream instant classic. The funky bassline is pure fire, driving the rhythm while Martha’s intricate production keeps you locked in. It’s no surprise Four Four Magazine called it a “searing house music debut” that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
What makes Promise stand out in the crowded deep house scene? It’s the way Martha blends her influences—nineties Chicago house, gospel choirs, and disco flair—into a sound that feels like a warm hug from the past but with a 2025 edge. Her religious upbringing in Belfast shines through in the track’s empowering message: trust your gut, ditch the negativity, and claim what you deserve. It’s the kind of anthem that lifts you up on the dancefloor and in life. Released on Valencia’s theBasement Discos, a label known for spotlighting underground house gems, Promise is a bold statement from an artist who’s here to shake things up.
Martha’s sampling skills are next-level, weaving retro elements with modern production finesse. The track’s high-energy vibe makes it perfect for late-night drives, club sets, or even your morning workout playlist. With playlist support from tastemakers like Acid Stag, Berlin House Music, and Nialler9’s Best New Irish Music, it’s clear Promise is resonating with fans and curators alike.
Who Is Martha Dark?
Hailing from Belfast and now splitting her time between London and her hometown, Martha Dark is a multi-instrumentalist, DJ, and producer who’s quickly carving out her place in the house music world. She started producing during the chaos of 2020, diving headfirst into crafting a sound that blends the nineties house she grew up on with her own unique spin. Think catchy retro hooks, infectious rhythms, and a refusal to be boxed into one genre.
Martha’s music is all about positive vibes and taking listeners on a journey. Her debut releases in 2023, including Promise on theBasement Discos and her own imprint Your Utopia My Dystopia, showcase her knack for blending nostalgia with forward-thinking production. Influenced by gospel and disco, she’s bringing a fresh perspective to house music that’s both soulful and dancefloor-ready. With her return to Belfast in August 2023, she’s poised to make waves in the Irish music scene and beyond.
Why Promise Is a Must-Listen
In a world where electronic music can sometimes feel formulaic, Promise stands out for its authenticity and heart. It’s not just a track—it’s a vibe, a message, and a reminder to stay true to yourself. The current surge in nu-disco and deep house popularity (hello, 2025 festival lineups!) makes Promise a timely addition to the genre’s resurgence. Whether you’re a longtime house head or just dipping your toes into the scene, this track’s infectious energy will have you hitting repeat.
Want to check it out? Stream Promise on Spotify or grab it from theBasement Discos’ release on TraxSource here. And if you’re as obsessed as I am, share it with your crew—this one’s made for blasting loud.
Get Your Music Out There with DistroKid
If you’re an artist inspired by Martha Dark’s bold debut, now’s the time to get your own tracks into the world. Platforms like DistroKid make it super easy to distribute your music to Spotify, Apple Music, and more, all while keeping most of your earnings. Plus, you can score a 7% discount on your membership with this link: https://distrokid.com/vip/seven/2058328. It’s a no-brainer for independent artists looking to make their mark, just like Martha.
Let’s Talk Promise
What do you think of Martha Dark’s debut? Are you feeling the nineties house revival, or is the gospel-disco twist stealing the show for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s vibing with you. And if you’re digging Promise, give it a share on socials to spread the love.
