The evening at the Iveagh Gardens kicked off with a deeply authentic and captivating performance by rising folk-pop artist Brenn!, who immediately endeared himself to the local crowd by arriving on stage with a traditional Irish hurley in his hand. Hailing from Alabama, the young singer-songwriter instantly won over the Dublin crowd with his undeniable Southern charm. Raised in a musical household, he brought a rich tapestry of classic country and folk influences to the stage, blending heartfelt lyricism with warm, acoustic storytelling. The crowd arrived early to catch his set, swaying along to the rich melodies and confessional themes that define his growing discography. It was an exceptionally strong opening set that perfectly set the tone for a night heavily rooted in storytelling traditions.
As the summer sun started to dip below the Dublin skyline, the spotlight shifted to the highly anticipated headliner, Dylan Gossett. The Texas native delivered a masterclass in modern Americana, commanding the stage with his signature gritty, gravelly vocals. Throughout the night, Gossett’s ability to weave profound narratives into stripped-down, acoustic-driven melodies kept the audience completely spellbound.
The historic, scenic backdrop of the Iveagh Gardens provided a magical setting that amplified the raw, organic energy of his performance. He leaned heavily into the deep emotional vulnerability that has defined his rapid rise, stripping away mainstream production in favor of pure musicality. Irish fans hung on every word, singing along passionately to the evocative tracks that have propelled him onto the global stage. His setlist beautifully balanced reflections on life with lighter, nostalgic rhythms that highlighted his growth as a premier songwriter.
Each song showcased his exceptional ability to strike a deeply personal chord with listeners, proving his status as a generational talent. Having sold out venues across the globe on his massive world tour, his Dublin stop cemented his reputation as a formidable live performer.
Brenn! photos:
Dylan Gossett photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Tree Birds
Sweet Lady
Lone Ole Cowboy
Honeysuckle
To Be Free
Love and Such
Bitter Winds
Back 40
No Better Time
Lovin You Like That
Finally Stop Dreaming
Adeline (You’re Outta Line)
Beneath Oak Trees
Hangin’ On / Folsom Prison Blues
___________________________
If I Had a Lover
Coal
Somewhere Between
Photos & words – Zoltán Szabó @mrzoltanphoto
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