Review by Mark McGrogan
The weather has been absolutely beautiful of late and I am sure Lukas Nelson & The POTR must be confused as to which island they have landed on! Big blue skies with fluffy clouds, beer gardens packed with revellers hitting the gigs in the city tonight.
The one and only Lizzo is up the road in Ormeau Park at Belsonic 2023 and we are here tonight at the Infamous Ulster Hall, Belfast for an alternative night’s music.
Opening this evenings show is local lass Lucy Gaffney, who has been grafting on the local music scene for over a decade now and hits the stage at 8pm sharp, with a short and sweet set.
She along with her brother Thom take us on a journey of easy-on-the-ear melodic numbers that whets the appetite of the Belfast crowd, her ethereal approach is light with beautiful vocal harmonies along with Thom fill the venue with a huge singalong chorus’ .
A lovely start to the evening has the Belfast crowd in fine form waiting for the arrival of one Lukas Nelson
Belfast’s legendary Ulster Hall has witnessed countless memorable performances throughout its storied history, hosting artists from various genres. In recent years, one particular act has taken the stage by storm, leaving audiences in awe with their electrifying performances and soulful sound.
Lukas Nelson & The Promise of the Real (POTR) have solidified their reputation as a powerhouse live band, and their appearance at Ulster Hall was no exception. As one of Belfast’s most iconic venues, the Ulster Hall has welcomed some of music’s biggest names, from classical composers to rock legends. The historic venue, with its stunning Victorian architecture and unrivaled acoustics, has always been a symbol of musical heritage and cultural significance.
It is the perfect setting for artists to connect intimately with their audience and create unforgettable experiences. Enter Lukas Nelson & The POTR: Led by Lukas Nelson, son of music icon Willie Nelson, Lukas Nelson & The Promise of the Real are a force to be reckoned with.
The band’s dynamic fusion of rock, country, and blues, combined with Nelson’s captivating stage presence, make for an explosive live performance.
Drawing inspiration from his father’s legacy while carving out his own unique path, Lukas Nelson has emerged as a talented singer-songwriter and guitarist in his own right. 8:45pm and as the lights dimmed and the crowd erupted in anticipation, Lukas Nelson & The POTR took to the stage, ready to deliver an unforgettable night of music.
From the very first note, the band commanded the room, instantly captivating the audience. The musicianship displayed by each member was exceptional, demonstrating their tight-knit bond and years of experience performing together.
Lukas Nelson’s soulful vocals resonated throughout the venue, carrying heartfelt lyrics and storytelling. His guitar skills were nothing short of mesmerizing, as he effortlessly maneuvered between bluesy solos and intricate melodies.
The POTR’s rhythm section, featuring drummer Anthony LoGerfo and bassist Corey McCormick, laid down a solid foundation, driving the energy of the performance to new heights. Throughout the set, Lukas Nelson & The POTR showcased their versatility, seamlessly transitioning between rock anthems, intimate ballads, and energetic jams.
The band’s chemistry was palpable, creating a symbiotic relationship between the musicians and the crowd. The audience was fully engaged, singing along to every chorus and swaying to the infectious grooves. Lukas Nelson & The Promise of the Real’s performance at Belfast’s Ulster Hall was a testament to their status as an incredible live entity.
From start to finish, they delivered a high-energy, emotionally charged performance that left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance.
Their ability to blend genres and connect with the audience on a profound level solidified their place as one of the most exciting acts in contemporary music. As the final chords rang out and the applause filled the air, it was evident that Lukas Nelson & The POTR had left an indescribable imprint on the hearts and minds of Belfast’s music lovers.
Their performance at the iconic Ulster Hall will be remembered as a milestone in their already impressive career, and it reaffirmed the venue’s status as a timeless hub for musical brilliance.
Photography by MPM
