Synth-pop fans gathered in near-sellout numbers at Vicar Street to witness a beloved icon return to the stage. Andy Bell, the legendary frontman of Erasure, delivered a powerful and nostalgic performance that reminded everyone just how influential his voice and energy have been since the 1980s. With a mix of classics and new material from his latest solo album Ten Crowns, the night was a celebration of past and present wrapped in vibrant synths and pure showmanship.
The anticipation was electric from the start. The crowd many longtime fans of Erasure was clearly eager to see Bell perform. The atmosphere felt more like a reunion than a concert, with shared memories and mutual excitement rippling through the audience long before the first beat dropped.
Dressed with his usual flair and charisma, Bell commanded the stage from the very first note. He proved he’s not just riding on the coattails of his Erasure legacy he’s still evolving, still creating, and still captivating. “Don’t Cha Know” was a standout moment in the set, blending a modern electronic groove with the unmistakable vocal style that made him famous.
Yet it was the Erasure songs that stirred the deepest response. Classics like “Sometimes,” “Love to Hate You,” and “Blue Savannah” dancing and singing along with joyful abandon. Bell’s voice distinctive and rich has held up remarkably well, carrying the same emotional weight it did decades ago. His performance was polished yet heartfelt, balancing showbiz charm with genuine connection.
One of the evening’s most unexpected delights came in the form of a cover: Olivia Newton-John’s “Xanadu.” Delivered with a shimmering, synth-pop twist. The crowd, many of whom clearly hadn’t anticipated the cover, embraced it wholeheartedly.
The set concluded with perhaps the most iconic Erasure song of all “A Little Respect.” As the opening chords rang out, the venue erupted. The crowd sang every word, and the atmosphere peaked with a mix of euphoria and heartfelt appreciation. It was the perfect closer, sending fans home on an undeniable high.
What made this show particularly special was its balance. Bell didn’t rely solely on nostalgia, though it was certainly a strong undercurrent. Instead, he used it as a foundation upon which to build something current and relevant. His new material was received enthusiastically, but it was clear that the emotional core of the night came from the songs that have soundtracked decades of listeners’ lives.
If you were a fan of Erasure back in the day or even if you’ve only recently discovered their rich catalogue this tour is one to catch. Bell’s charisma, voice, and stage presence are as magnetic as ever, and his performance at Vicar Street was a testament to his enduring talent. It was more than a concert, it was a time capsule, a dance party, and a heartfelt thank-you to fans who’ve followed his journey since the mid-’80s.
In short, a triumphant night of synth-pop magic.
Tristan Rene photos:
Andy Bell photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Breaking Thru the Interstellar
Blue Savannah
Sometimes
Don’t Cha Know
Drama!
Heart’s a Liar
Chains of Love
Godspell
Love to Hate You
Breathe
Always
Xanadu (Olivia Newton‐John/Electric Light Orchestra cover)
For Today
Victim of Love
Dance for Mercy
Chorus
Put Your Empathy on Ice
Oh l’amour
Thank You
A Little Respect
Photos & words – Ian Mc Donnell @mcgigmusic