Fast-rising UK producers and DJs Riordan and Locky join forces on “Friction,” a high-energy new collaboration out now via Darkroom Records.
Built around punchy basslines, infectious rhythms, and an energetic flow, “Friction” blends the raw energy of house and UK garage with a modern production edge. Drawing inspiration from London’s nightlife, the track feels tailor-made for Boiler Room sets and late-night dancefloors, bringing together the genre-fluid approaches of both producers.
For Riordan, “Friction” arrives during a breakout 2026 that has seen his profile continue to rise across the global dance music scene. He most recently teamed up with Danny P, Caleb Laurenson, and multi-platinum duo AlunaGeorge for the Shadow Child Remix of “Best Be Believing.” The updated version features newly recorded vocals from Aluna, giving the fan-favorite track a fresh dimension.
Before that, Riordan joined forces with Silva Bumpa on “Lifting,” released via Room Two Recordings. Combining pulsating house grooves with a heavy UK garage influence, the collaboration showcased the production strengths of both artists and ultimately reached #1 on Beatport.
Riordan has also been named Billboard’s Dance Up-and-Comer Artist of the Month, further highlighting his rapid rise. In 2026 alone, he has made his Lollapalooza debut, performed at Coachella’s Yuma Tent, and delivered his biggest headline show to date with a sold-out performance at New York City’s Knockdown Center. With an upcoming appearance at Creamfields, his momentum shows little sign of slowing.
Supported by tastemakers including KETTAMA, Prospa, and Gorgon City, Riordan has progressed from the underground club circuit to major stages across North America, Europe, and Australia. His music has generated more than 40 million streams across platforms over the past year.
On the other side of the collaboration is George Lock, better known as Locky, a London-based DJ and producer making waves across the UK underground house and garage scene.
Locky gained widespread recognition as a co-writer of “Can’t Decide” alongside Max Dean and Luke Dean, with the track going on to win Best Track at the 2025 DJ Mag Best of British Awards. His own releases on FFRR, Beeyou, neXup, UVAR, and other labels have earned support from influential names including Chris Stussy, Rossi, and Enzo Siragusa, while his music has received radio play across BBC Radio 1, Capital Dance, and international stations.
Together, Riordan and Locky bring two distinct sides of the UK underground together on “Friction.” The result is a club-focused collaboration that connects house and garage while reflecting the energy of the London nightlife that continues to shape both artists.
With Riordan coming off a landmark year and Locky continuing to establish himself as one of the UK underground’s emerging names, “Friction” arrives at a pivotal moment for both producers.
RIORDAN: INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | SOUNDCLOUD
LOCKY: INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | SPOTIFY | SOUNDCLOUD