Dermot Kennedy On Tour

Dermot Kennedy arrived at Birmingham's Utilita Arena as one of Ireland's most successful contemporary singer-songwriters, with a catalogue that continues to grow in both scale and emotional depth. From the breakthrough success of Without Fear to the chart-topping Sonder, Kennedy has built a devoted following through his ability to blend heartfelt lyricism with soaring melodies. His most recent album, I've Told the Trees Everything, feels like his most personal and powerful work yet, offering an even deeper insight into the artist behind the songs. With anticipation high, the atmosphere inside the arena was electric long before he took to the stage.

Opening the evening was Jensen MacRae, a hugely promising talent whose star appears firmly on the rise. Possessing a strikingly powerful vocal, she immediately commanded the attention of the arena crowd. Her playful and engaging stage presence provided a notable juxtaposition to the often darker and moodier themes explored in her songs, creating a compelling performance that balanced wit with vulnerability. By the end of her set, she had undoubtedly won over plenty of new fans and confirmed herself as an artist worth watching closely.

When Dermot Kennedy finally emerged, he was an instant winner. The roar that greeted him was deafening, and from the opening moments it was clear why he has become such a beloved live performer. His vocals were breathtaking throughout, delivering the kind of spine-tingling moments that only the very best singers can achieve. Every note carried emotion, every lyric felt lived-in, and the songs proved even more potent in the live setting than they do on record.

The setlist showcased the breadth of Kennedy's career, moving effortlessly between intimate moments and arena-sized anthems. Highlights were plentiful, with Better Days providing a joyous singalong, while All My Friends captured the sense of connection that has become a hallmark of his shows. "Wasted" was delivered with remarkable intensity, and "Funeral" proved one of the evening's most moving moments, its emotional weight resonating throughout the arena.

What makes a Dermot Kennedy concert special is his ability to make a vast arena feel personal. Thousands sang every word back to him, creating a shared experience that felt both uplifting and cathartic. By the time the final notes rang out, there was a sense that everyone present had witnessed something genuinely special.

It proved, fittingly, An Evening I Will Not Forget.