"Overall, Dermot Kennedy's voice has a lasting effect that will definitely be one to remember for a long time. From his charismatic stage presence to the musicianship his band brings to each performance, Dermot Kennedy is truly brilliant and is definitely worth seeing when he tours through your city next."
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Must See
Lilla Vargen and Dermot Kennedy
O2 Academy // Birmingham, England // 11 December, 2019
Review by Debbie Akomanyi
Dermot Kennedy released his debut full-length album, Without Fear, on 4th October. In support of the album, he has spent a good portion of the year touring across multiple cities in multiple venues, one of which being the O2 Academy in Birmingham.
“Power Over Me,” “Outnumbered,” and “Lost” were the few songs that increased his popularity within the music scene where he earned a place performing at Coachella.
Lilla Vargen, also from Ireland, was the supporting act for the night accompanied by two of her band mates. Her songs signified a melancholy style, Vargen noting during her performance that “sad songs are always the best.” Included in her set were a few songs that are featured on her latest EP like “Hold On,” “Solitary,” “On My Mind,” and “The Shore.”
It was a very suspenseful wait of anticipation before Dermot arrived onstage. Tunes were blasting from the speakers and everyone in the crowd watched the crew get the set ready, giving validation to all that Dermot was due to arrive onstage at any moment. He sang a powerful set that featured over 11 songs, playing various tracks from Without Fear as well as old releases, including tracks like “An Evening I Will Not Forget,” “All My Friends,” “Moments Passed,” and “Power Over Me” in the performance.
Dermot’s vocals were so powerful, it filled up the whole venue which was the statement of the night that signified the uniqueness in his voice. The atmosphere was set with smoke machines, captivating visuals, and intense lighting that illuminated the venue during performances.
The night ended with a massive applause from the crowd cheering Dermot for his performance – whistles, cheers, and clapping included. The applause felt like it went on forever, but was very much a deserved response towards Dermot and his band for the intense and truly mesmerising performance they brought to the Birmingham stage.
Overall, Dermot Kennedy’s voice has a lasting effect that will definitely be one to remember for a long time. From his charismatic stage presence to the musicianship his band brings to each performance, Dermot Kennedy is truly brilliant and is definitely worth seeing when he tours through your city next.
