On the Dublin stop of her A Complicated Woman tour, Rebecca Lucy Taylor, known to fans as Self Esteem delivered a commanding, theatrical performance that was equal parts empowerment, vulnerability, and spectacle. Supported by South African artist and powerhouse performer Moonchild Sanelly, the night was a celebration of fierce femininity, layered pop production, and unapologetic self-expression.
Moonchild Sanelly kicked things off with an electric set that blended gqom, hip-hop, experimental pop and her self-created music genre called Future ghetto funk. Her energy was infectious from the moment she stepped on stage, bringing a bold presence and rhythmic prowess that set the tone for the evening. A standout moment and there were many was when she showed off her dance moves in an unforgettable twerk routine that had the crowd roaring in approval. With her signature blue hair and genre-bending sound, she proved herself to be more than just an opener she was a force in her own right.
When the lights dimmed for the main act, anticipation was palpable. eight dancers standing solemnly in a line, dressed in what could only be described as Handmaid’s Tale inspired costumes black robes and white bonnets evoking a clear message of constraint and control. Rebecca Lucy Taylor joined them moments later, dressed identically, before launching into the opening track “I Do and I Don’t Care.” The theatrical imagery was powerful, setting the stage for a show that would explore the complexities of womanhood, autonomy, and performance.
As the set progressed, the costume change from restrictive robes to sleek, sporty attire marked a shift in energy a shedding of constraints and a move toward liberation. The choreography throughout the show was impeccable, with backup dancers and singers forming a tightly unified ensemble. Each routine felt deliberate, every movement echoing the themes of the music, be it frustration, empowerment, or joy.
The 17-song setlist included fan favourites Taylor’s discography. Songs like “Mother” and “Fucking Wizardry” showcased her biting lyrical wit and layered production, while “The 345” and “The Deep Blue Okay” delivered emotional highs and lows in quick succession. Taylor’s voice was soulful, powerful, and unwavering anchored the show.
One of the night’s most memorable moments came during “In Plain Sight,” when Moonchild Sanelly returned to the stage to join Taylor in a thrilling collaboration. The chemistry between the two artists was palpable, and their joint performance added a raw, electric energy that brought the house down.
The night concluded with a two-song encore that gave fans one last chance to sing, dance, and feel every beat of Taylor’s powerful message. There was no sense of fatigue only gratitude, joy, and the feeling that the audience had just witnessed something meaningful and meticulously crafted.
From start to finish, Self Esteem’s A Complicated Woman tour stop in Dublin was a masterclass in pop performance. Rebecca Lucy Taylor continues to push the boundaries of what a pop show can be, raw emotional honesty, choreographed spectacle, and brilliant songwriting into one unforgettable night.
Whether you’re already a fan or just discovering her for the first time, this is a show well worth your time.
Moonchild Sanelly photos:
Self Esteem photos & set-list:
Set-list:
I Do and I Don’t Care
Mother
Lies
69
You Forever
Logic, Bitch!
Prioritise Pleasure
Fucking Wizardry
The Curse
In Plain Sight (With Moonchild Sanelly)
What Now
The 345
Cheers to Me
If Not Now, It’s Soon
The Deep Blue Okay
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I Do This All the Time
Focus Is Power
Photos & words – Ian Mc Donnell @mcgigmusic