There was a real buzz in the air last night as Isaac Butler played to a packed-out Button Factory in Dublin. Fans filled the venue wall to wall, including a big crew from the Netherlands waving flags, wearing heart headbands, and holding up signs. You could feel the excitement before Isaac even stepped on stage.
Opening the night were Dublin sisters Zeztra, who kicked things off with their moody, alt-pop sound. The crowd was fully on board from the get-go, these two definitely know how to get a gig going.
When Isaac appeared, the energy went through the roof. In his own words it was a “very quick start”. He spoke to the crowd early on, saying that even though he’s been out of Ireland for a while pushing his music career, there’s still nothing like playing to an Irish crowd. And judging by the cheers, everyone in the room agreed.
One of the most surprising (and wholesome) moments came when Isaac’s brother, Toby, joined him on stage for Atmosphere. “I bet you weren’t expecting that,” Isaac said, grinning. Toby more than held his own, he’s got a voice just as strong as his brother’s, and the two of them together were magic.
Later on, Isaac jumped into the middle of the crowd to play Joanna, and it was one of those moments that really stuck with people. Just him, his guitar, and a crowd completely wrapped up in it all. Even those in the seating section up above were all on their feet.
He also dropped a few new tracks throughout the set and they already sound great. If last night was anything to go by, there’s big stuff on the horizon.
By the end of the night, the place was buzzing people singing, dancing, and clearly not ready to go home. Isaac Butler might have been away for a bit, but last night showed he’s still right at home on a Dublin stage.
Zeztra photos:
Issac Butler photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Electric
The One That I Want
On the Run
The Middle
Good Enough
Atmosphere (feat. Toby Butler)
It Isn’t Written Yet
Heart of Gold
Joanna (in the middle of the crowd)
Taste (Sabrina Carpenter cover)
Bite Out of You
Death of You
Even Giants Fall
Everything Changed
Butterflies
Photos & Words – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography