With no expectations, excited to be introduced to Gareth Dunlop in his full glory, the downstairs space of Soho’s Lower Third was buzzing, eager for the show to start. Belfast’s very own, Gareth Dunlop made his way to the stage, ready to entertain the awaiting audience.
The simple yet grandioso single piano note kicked off Dunlop’s performance in style. The unreleased track ‘Church’ was a perfect show opener, showcasing his signature power vocals, and completely blowing everyone away.
Looking around, you could see people singing along, mouthing lyrics, and even yelping once their favorite was next. Dunlop gathered a room of OG fans, music fanatics, and gig lovers, who gradually fell in love with the Dunlop songwriting genius.
Track by track, I couldn’t help but film to remember Dunlop’s catchy melodies, which had to be added to my melancholia playlist. Personal favorites were ‘Go Down Swinging,’ the sultry ‘Devil Like You,’ the vulnerably romantic ‘All We’ll Ever Need’ and ‘My Kind Of Paradise,‘ ‘Look Back Smiling,‘ featured on his 2022 album ‘Animal.’
Between the established hits, Dunlop shared new unreleased material, such as ‘I Don’t Feel You’ and the upcoming single ‘Church,’ which also closed the show as part of a two-song encore.
Throughout the 18-track long live set, Gareth Dunlop carried an effortless star musicality, making me leave as an official Gareth Dunlop fan.
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Photographer: Laura Maria Photography