GIG REVIEW: DECLAN MCKENNA @ THE ACADEMY GREEN ROOM DUBLIN - 19/5/17

Standing in line at 6:30pm waiting for the doors to open at 7:00pm, I could feel the excitement radiating through the crowd  that was gathering quickly for Declan McKenna's sold out show in the Green Room at the Academy in the capital city of  Ireland. Previously scheduled to play the smaller Academy 2, which is merely a basement, McKenna was bumped up to the Green Room due to high demand.

Jealous of the Birds were Declan's choice of opening band for the Irish show, and he made an excellent decision. Refreshingly fronted by Naomi Hamilton, who's style, hair, voice, and guitar playing skills made me envious. They put on a truly entertaining show, getting the crowd ready for the night and clearly enjoying themselves too. If you're looking for new music to enjoy and get lost in, I highly recommend Jealous of the Birds.

Naomi Hamilton of 'Jealous of the Birds'.

After the opening act rallied up the crowd, we eagerly awaited McKenna's set; all while singing along to cheesy 80's music. The feeling of waiting for an artist to come out on stage is something that will always stick with me, the excitement and the excruciating wait to finally see the person who makes the music that helps you daily. Eventually the lights dimmed and one by one Declan's band came up onto the stage, which was tall enough that everyone could see but low enough that we were nearly eye-level. Declan came onto the stage carrying a popper and as soon as the first note of Isombard played, he set it off, sending confetti streaming into the crowd; who were all cheering for him.

Declan McKenna certainly did not fail to put on a mesmerising show, playing fan favourites and even some new songs off his up-coming album "What Do You Think Of The Car?".  Halfway through the show Declan took the time to tell us how important using our right to vote is. It was refreshing to see someone use their platform to educate and inform. He wasn't always serious, putting on a high energy show. He even sent the security guards into a frenzy when he decided to jump straight into the crowd. McKenna did not disappoint, putting on a show I won't ever forget.

 If you ever get an opportunity to got see Declan McKenna live, do not let it pass you by.