Dark Tropics / Martello – live gallery and review from Upstairs Whelans Dublin 11.10.2025

Upstairs at Whelan’s can feel like a world of its own intimate, atmospheric, and when the right acts take the stage, utterly electric. On the 11th of October, Belfast-based duo Dark Tropics delivered a powerful and polished debut headline performance that proved they’re more than ready for the next stage of their journey.

Opening the evening was Martello, a 23 year-old Irish artist making waves with his acoustic-driven melodies. His seven-song set was warm and earnest, with standout track Oracle landing right in the middle an emotionally rich performance that captivated the growing crowd. Martello closed with his latest single Boat On The Water, leaving no doubt that he’s one to watch.

As the room swelled in anticipation, Dark Tropics took the stage and immediately set the tone with Spotlight, opening what would be a blinding 16 song set. Their signature Pop-Noir sound moody yet melodic, cinematic yet intimate filled every corner of the venue.

Standout moments came in the form of fan favorites like ”Moroccan Sun” and Badlands”, as well as the enigmatic ”It’s Later Than You Think”, which lead singer Rio joked doesn’t actually have a title as shekeeps forgetting this one, so encouraged fans to send in their suggestions. It was a reminder of the duo’s charm and their close connection with listeners.
They closed the main set with the soon to be released single ”You’re Mine”, a lush, emotionally charged track that felt like a natural high point. The night concluded with ”Whispers”, a haunting finale that lingered long after the lights came up.

From start to finish, this was a confident, well crafted debut headline performance from a band clearly in command of their vision. With Martello setting the tone and Dark Tropics delivering a set that felt both intimate and expansive, this was one of those rare nights where everything just clicked.

If you missed it, you missed something special.

Martello photos:

Dark Troipics photos & set-list:

Set-list:
Spotlight
Hallelujah
Moroccan Sun
I Bet You Can
Dreaming
Escape
Badlands
Solitary Dream
Keep Serching
It’s Later Than You Think
All I Want Is Here
It All Leads Back To You
Midnight
Carnival
You’re Mine
Whispers

Photos & words – Ian Mc Donnell @mcgigmusic