Dermot Kennedy, Moments Passed | Track Review 🎵

Up-and-coming Dublin singer/songwriter Dermot Kennedy captivates on his heartbroken single, “Moments Passed.”

Singer/songwriter Dermot Kennedy reps from Dublin, Ireland, and man-oh-man, is he special.  One of those eclectic types, Kennedy incorporates a number of influences into his music, including R&B, hip-hop, and electronic.  Indeed, alternative is the best way to characterize this restless, up-and-coming artist. No, Kennedy isn’t a household name stateside, but perhaps he should be. His single, “Moments Passed,” suggests as much.

Naturally, the first thing that catches the ear about “Moments Passed” is the variety of sounds.  The use synths, sound effects, and pitch-shifted vocals.  Clearly, the influence of Bon Iver shows itself early on. At around the 40 second mark, Dermot Kennedy showcases his natural voice.  It’s a sight to behold – earnest, nuanced, and incredibly soulful. His grit is world class. Going back to the sounds, the production as a whole is captivating.  After the variety of sounds early on, the verses settle into a poised, respectable backdrop.  While there’s a sense of calm, slick, hip-hop-oriented drums keeps “Moments Passed” rolling along. A lot has been made about sound and vocals.  What about the theme of the song? Love, which is always relatable.  He’s poetic about the loss of love on the verses.  It all comes together – the sheer pain of heartbreak – on the chorus.

“‘Cause I loved ya
Does that mean nothing to you now?
I loved ya
Get me back on homely ground
She said, ‘oh I know that love is all about the wind
How it can hold me up and kill me in the end,’
Still I loved it
Does that mean nothing to you now?”

Final Thoughts

All in all, Dermot Kennedy shines on “Moments Passed.” He’s an intriguing artist with a great set of pipes and ample creative sensibilities.  As for the song itself, the production is excellent, as is the songwriting.  Cons are absent.  Potential? Off the charts.

Dermot Kennedy • Moments Passed – Single • Riggins Recording Limited • Release: 9.19.17 

Photo Credit: Riggins Recording Limited