Dermot Kennedy - Live Review

Tuesday evening marked the second of two sold-out shows at London’s Eventim Apollo for Irish singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy. Fresh off receiving his gold disc for Outnumbered and a number one album award for Without Fear, Kennedy’s achievements over the past year have been nothing short of remarkable. With a packed venue and an air of anticipation, I was excited to see what this evening had in store.

Kennedy opened the night with An Evening I Will Not Forget, the first track from his debut album Without Fear. The dimly lit stage and the hauntingly beautiful song set the tone perfectly, drawing the audience into his world. The crowd, a mix of seated fans upstairs and standing attendees downstairs, showed incredible respect throughout the performance. Apart from singing along when invited, the audience remained silent, fully immersed in the moment - a rare and refreshing experience.

Kennedy’s ability to hold the room with his voice and presence was remarkable. His storytelling between songs added depth to the evening, as he shared insights into his songwriting process and the personal meanings behind his lyrics. He came across as genuinely humble, expressing gratitude for the audience and the journey he’s been on.

Choosing highlights from Kennedy’s set is no easy task, as every song felt like a standout. Tracks like Rome and Dancing Under Red Skies were personal favorites, showcasing his ability to blend raw emotion with soaring melodies. Almost all of Without Fear was performed, along with other previously released tracks, giving fans a comprehensive look at his artistry.

Kennedy was joined on stage by a tight three-piece band, who complemented his sound beautifully. At times, they stepped back to let him deliver acoustic numbers that were nothing short of breathtaking. His ability to start a song slowly with just his acoustic guitar, before the band kicked in and the stage lit up, created moments of pure magic.

The stage design added another layer to the evening’s atmosphere. At times, Kennedy stood alone on stage, surrounded by dry ice and illuminated by a single light, creating an intimate and haunting visual. Other moments saw the giant screen behind him come to life, displaying images of tree branches, blinking eyes, and a swimmer, adding depth and emotion to the performance.

The combination of Kennedy’s powerful voice, the band’s tight musicianship, and the thoughtful stage production made for a truly immersive experience.

The evening ended with After Rain, a compelling and emotional track that had the entire crowd singing “You won’t go lonely, yeah” back at him. It was the perfect way to close the night, leaving the audience with a sense of connection and shared emotion.

In a world where concerts are often marred by chatter and distractions, it was refreshing to be surrounded by an audience that was fully present and engaged. Kennedy’s ability to command such respect and attention speaks volumes about his talent and the connection he has with his fans.

With over ten shows left to play around the UK this year, I highly recommend trying to get tickets if you can. Dermot Kennedy is an artist who delivers not just music, but an experience—one that stays with you long after the final note fades.