There was something beautifully full-circle about Dave Lofts taking the stage at the Theatre Royal in Waterford last night. A homegrown talent, once known for busking on the City’s streets and gigging in every small venue he could, Dave stepped into the historic venue with the kind of presence that showed how much this really meant to him.
Kicking things off was fellow Waterford artist Codyy, a familiar face for some, especially those who caught him opening for Gavin James here in Waterford back in December. With his sister Becky on keys, Codyy gave his usual 100% performance. He spoke about the writing process behind his tracks and how he’s pushing to make it in this industry. He’s clearly hungry, but in the best way, crafting songs that connect, and never forgetting where he’s from. It was the perfect way to begin a night all about roots, growth, and the power of coming home.
When Dave came to the stage just after 9pm, the hometown crowd were ready to go. From the very first notes of “Salt and the Sea,” there were audible “wows” from the audience. His voice is something else, raw in the best ways, full of heart and very unique. You could tell how much the night meant to him even before he left out a note. After the first track he addressed the crowd, finding it hard to get a word in in-between all the cheers. He called this night “a very long time coming,” and the emotion was written all over his face.
A couple of minor tech issues cropped up early on, but they were handled swiftly, and Dave, ever the professional, didn’t let it rattle him. In fact, it only made the crowd more behind him. These were his people. His town. And they were with him every step of the way.
Fresh off a Dublin show at The Academy, Dave could’ve easily coasted on that momentum. But he didn’t. This performance felt special and it was clear he wanted to put on the best show possible for his hometown. This felt like a celebration of where he’s been and where he’s going.
The setlist was packed with highlights- big, full-bodied moments on “Wolves” and “Running Up That Hill” that had the room buzzing. The cover of 17 going under had everyone giving all of their attention and there was many a tear shed during his closer and new track “Just A Man”.
There was, of course, a well deserved standing ovation at the end of the night. A moment that Dave rightfully soaked up. After the show, Dave stuck to his roots and showed how happy he was to be home when he nipped across the road to local bar Itty Bittys to enjoy some drinks with his team and old friends. And rightfully so.
Codyy photos:
Dave Lofts photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Salt and the Sea
Walk Out
Let Me Go Home
Where Is The Love
Poison
Wasted
Shades of Blue
Tell Me
Fucked
Running Up That Hill
Drinking With The Boys
Wolves
Encore
17 Going Under
Just A Man
Photos & Words – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography