Review of The Delorentos at The Unitarian Church on November 26th 2011
Photos: Kieran Frost
Review: Deirdre Harrison
Having been hidden away preparing their third album for what seems like forever, Delorentos finally made a welcome return to the Dublin live scene in the stunning setting of the Unitarian Church. This was no ordinary gig however as the Delo boys left their electric guitars at home, treating fans to a special acoustic performance.
In celebration of the fifth birthday of their first release, the Leave It On EP, the band decided to mark the occasion with this special tour, taking part in intimate locations around the country. On arrival fans we’re presented with a limited edition magazine, only available at the gigs, consisting of interviews and features with several different friends of the group, all with different creative backgrounds. The magazine also features a physical copy of their latest EP, Little Sparks.
Taking note of the unusual scene, singer and guitarist Ró Yourell welcomes the crowd with the words, “We are gathered here today,” before breaking into ‘Leave It On‘. Incorporating some lesser used instruments, including a xylophone and mandolin, the song is completely transformed. In a set list compromising of hits from their previous albums as well as brand new unheard tracks, almost every song is at first unrecognisable; from a bluegrass style rendition of Hallucinations to an incredible harmony laden version of Basis of Everything.
While it can usually be said that a Delorentos performance can be judged by how loudly the crowd sing along, tonight the performance could be judged by just how quiet the crowd were. It was clear the audience were soaking up every aspect, and hanging on every word. The band took this opportunity to do the more downbeat ‘I Remember‘; a song which would be lost in the typical Delorentos live set, the crowd listened with revered silence.
In a set filled with new material, the stand out was Waited For You, a track which it is fair to say is exactly the song every girl wants to have written about her. Having previously appeared on YouTube, Bullet In A Gun was another highlight of the new material and the perfect way to end the show.
What Delorentos have done tonight is completely different; not satisfied with a typical acoustic show consisting of two acoustic guitars, they have completely reworked their arrangements giving every song a fresh new twist. Every member proved themself to be a talented musician with the many instruments they turned their hands to. However, it was with their harmonies Delorentos really show just how tight a band they are. Many other bands need to take note of this special performance, to start taking risks and include new ideas into their live shows and releases. With their new album expected to be released early in 2012, I look forward to seeing what plans Delorentos have up their sleeves.
Setlist
Leave It On
Hallucinations
Hunting
Petardu
Basis Of Everything
You Say You’ll Never Love Her
Did We Ever Really Try?
Care For
Pace Yourself
Sanctuary
I Remember
Swimmer
Waited for You
The Stream
Secret
Bullet in a Gun
