2024/02/23 – Dylan – o2 Academy, Oxford
Review & Photos: G. Rossington.
On an incredibly rainy night and with a protest only a few doors away, the O2 Academy in Oxford came alive with an electrifying performance of British singer-songwriter Dylan aka, Natasha Katherine Woods. The venue, known in the South for its intimate and vibrant atmosphere, provided the perfect setting for an evening of raw emotion and high-energy music, making for an unforgettable night.
The evening began with two talented opening acts. First on stage was Welsh indie-pop artist Catty, who delivered a heartfelt set filled with catchy melodies and poignant lyrics. Her songs ‘Healing Out of Spite’ and ‘I Dated A Monster’ captivated the audience, setting a warm and engaging tone for the night. Following her were London based girl band Say Now, whose energetic performance and catchy tunes like ‘S.I.N.G.L.E.’ and ‘Bitch, Get Out Of My Car’ amped up the crowd, creating an electric atmosphere in anticipation of the headline performance.
As Dylan took the stage, the crowd erupted into enthusiastic applause. Opening with her hit single ‘Rebel Child’, she immediately showcased her commanding presence and vocal prowess. Dylan’s ability to convey raw emotion through her powerful voice was evident from the start, drawing the audience in with every word.
The setlist was a tight mix of tracks from her debut album and recent releases. Songs like ‘Girl of Your Dreams’ and ‘Someone Else’ had the crowd singing along, creating a communal experience that underscored the emotional depth of her lyrics. Her performance of ‘No Romeo’, a standout ballad, was particularly moving, with Dylan’s vocal delivery capturing the song’s vulnerability and intensity.
Dylan’s musicianship was impeccable throughout the night. Her vocal range and control were on full display, from the soft, tender moments to the powerful, soaring choruses. The live band added a rich, dynamic layer to her performance, with tight arrangements that perfectly complemented Dylan’s voice.
Her stage presence was both captivating and relatable. Between songs, Dylan shared personal stories and interacted with the audience, expressing genuine gratitude for their support. This connection added a personal touch to the performance, making the fans feel like they were part of something special.
Tonight, there was no encore that brought the night to a thrilling close, instead she performed all the way through. She performed two covers back to back mid set. Firstly we get a cover of Harry Styles’ ‘Kiwi’ followed by a cover of Taylor Swift’s ‘Out of The Woods’. Other highlights throughout the set were the exceptional new single ‘Perfect Revenge’, ‘Bad / Unholy’ and ‘The Alibi’. The final song of the night, ‘Nothing Lasts Forever’ was an emotional high point, leaving the audience in awe of her talent and artistry.
Dylan delivered a performance that was both powerful and poignant. Her ability to connect with the audience through her music and stories made for a truly memorable evening. For fans and newcomers alike, it was a night that showcased the immense talent and emotional depth of this rising star. An exceptional concert that left a lasting impression.