Dermot Kennedy Enchants Seattle

We headed to WaMu Theater to catch one of the most anticipated live shows this month. Dermot Kennedy has been slowly found his way to our hearts the last few years and we can’t get enough. The Irish singer-songwriter was in town as part of his major tour supporting his second record, Sonder. People gathered early to catch the soulful pop artist Kevin Garrett open the show.

After a short shift and some more fans filling up the venue it was time for Kennedy to take the stage. The middle of the floor was tilted a little higher so when he walked towards the back of that piece he would be seen more. He appeared on the floor wearing all black with a baby blue beanie starting with “Blossom,” “Power Over Me,” and “One Life.” From the start he was very engaging constantly making contact with his audience. The three large screens in the background showed a variety of vibrant colors and visuals throughout the night perfectly pairing the sound.

After a very powerful execution of “Glory,” the mood shifted to a bit quieter as he sat alone to perform “Rome,” on the piano. The emotional song was accompanied by the lights of the people in the room creating a very intimate moment. This was one of our favorite images of the night, watching Kennedy’s adoring fans make the room seem small and connecting everyone through the music.

After performing “Innocence and Sadness,” on the piano by himself he turned to chat with his fans once more. “One thing that pops up in my music and I think is always there, is the fear of time passing by. It scares me so much, but it keeps me moving and being aware that relationships are so precious. We get such limited time with people and remember to check yourself and to treat them accordingly because, it’s BRIEF.” After that beautiful reality check his band joined him again to play his breakout hit, “Outnumbered.”

The incredible night ended after we heard “Kiss Me,” and “Something to Someone,” that were the highlights for many there singing at the top of their lungs. Kennedy has an amazing charisma that is very noticeable when you’re seeing him play live. He sings every song almost like it’s the first time, feeling every emotion all over again and passing that to the fans like a wave. In such a big space he managed to make everyone there feel like he’s singing about their own worries and pain, completely relating with every note.

Photos: Sophia Barkalakis @s.barkalakis