Music: Kennedy in Los Angeles

Dublin’s Dermot Kennedy performs in Los Angeles, California

Immersion in lush, dark, Irish melody is the way I’ll describe the concert by this young Dublin, Ireland singer and songwriter. His name, Dermot Kennedy, was unknown to me until a friend, who subscribes to Autonomia and knows about my leaking roof, empathized during one of LA’s torrents of rain. He sent a link to a song, “Better Days.” That’s when I started listening. I enjoyed the tunes more with each listening. This friend took me to Kennedy’s show last night in Los Angeles.

The 90-minute performance was stunning. Dermot Kennedy’s showmanship is intense, slightly profane and largely unadorned, except for a digital video wall behind the band and two background vocalists. The concert was immersive—not bombastic. The stage was black. Lights came on with a gradual, natural ease. Drummer, guitarist and keyboardist among others appeared with Kennedy standing at center stage in a spotlight. He sang—mostly with eyes closed—occasionally telling the audience how much he appreciates Los Angeles…