Bob Dylan Captivates Belfast Crowd with Energetic Performance on ‘Rough and Rowdy Ways’ Tour
A remarkable evening unfolded at teh Waterfront Hall in Belfast on Wednesday as Bob Dylan, at 84, delivered a spirited and captivating performance, kicking off a five-night run in Ireland. The concert, the first of two sold-out shows at the venue, showcased the enduring power of a musical icon and the tight musicianship of his touring band.
The evening began promptly after 8pm, with Dylan taking the stage alongside his four band members and instantly establishing a commanding presence. He moved nimbly to his baby grand piano, then pivoted to his electric guitar, launching into lose chords as the band joined in, creating a sound that was immediately “foot-stompingly loud.”
Dylan opened with “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight,” his voice described as “startling and clear,” immediately signaling a performance brimming with energy. The setlist, seemingly “carved in stone” after 26 dates across nine countries, leaned heavily on material from his 2020 album, Rough and Rowdy Ways, with nine of the 17 songs originating from the critically acclaimed record.
The performance wasn’t simply a recitation of familiar tunes. Dylan repeatedly returned to the guitar, a notable shift from his previous Irish appearance in November 2022. He navigated between instruments and vocal styles, shifting “between drawn-out expressions and rushed lines, as if he has no time to lose.” Tracks like “It Ain’t Me, Babe,” “I Contain Multitudes,” and “False Prophet” were delivered with a “rough and rowdy” edge, showcasing the band’s ability to be both “whip-tight” and dynamically loose.
A member of the band offered a rare moment of direct address to the audience, noting, “Some of these songs aren’t easy to play,” before adding with a smile, “But the band play them pretty good, don’t you think?” This sentiment underscored the collaborative energy of the performance.
The setlist continued with highlights including a haunting rendition of “Black Rider” and a powerful “My Own Version of you,” both from Rough and Rowdy Ways. Dylan also revisited classics with fresh arrangements, such as “when I Paint My Masterpiece,” and delivered a sweetly melodious “It’s All Over now, Baby Blue,” punctuated by vibrant harmonica playing.
The band – featuring Tony Garnier on bass, Anton Fig on drums, and Bob Britt and Doug Lancio on guitar – consistently demonstrated a cohesive unit, often closing in together at the end of each song as dylan rose to acknowledge the audience. The evening culminated with “Mother of Muses,” “Goodbye Jimmy Reed,” and “Every Grain of Sand,” concluding with a final harmonica blast.
Dylan greeted the standing ovation with a move from behind his piano, offering a second bo
Why: Bob Dylan performed a concert in Belfast, Ireland.
Who: Bob Dylan, along with his four band members (Tony Garnier, Anton Fig, Bob Britt, and Doug Lancio).
What: A spirited and captivating performance as part of his ‘Rough and Rowdy Ways’ tour, featuring songs from his 2020 album and classic re-arrangements.
How did it end?: The concert ended with a standing ovation after Dylan played “Mother of Muses,” “goodbye Jimmy Reed,” and “Every Grain of Sand,” finishing with a harmonica blast and a second bow from behind the piano.
