The annual Dublin Electronic Arts Festival (DEAF) will take place from October 21st to 31st, and The Ticket can exclusively reveal two highlights of this year’s programme. Local act Twin Kranes will launch their debut album at the festival, where they’ll be joined by David Holmes and Andy Votel. “New Spaces for Music” will see a series of gigs will take place in unusual spaces around Dublin, such as train stations and shops.

The full programme will be announced in September, but artists already confirmed include Modeselektor, Christian Vogel, Surgeon and Hypnotic Brass Ensemble.

The economic climate has seen DEAF 2009’s Arts Council funding reduced, and the festival is, as yet, without a sponsor. In order to generate funds, a gig will take place at Temple Bar’s Meeting House Square on August 21st. Eight bands, including The Jimmy Cake (below), Dark Room Notes, Spilly Walker and Patrick Kelleher, will play from 6pm onwards. Tickets are €10 and on sale now.

Festival director Karen Walshe said that the gig was a necessity in this, DEAF’s eighth year. “But we’re remaining upbeat about this year, and embracing the positive side,” she said.