On September 11, Thai Irish singer, Sinéad Harnett, took the stage for her show at The Foundry in Philadelphia. As 7:00 p.m. drew closer, The Foundry doors opened and excited fans streamed into the venue, buzzing with anticipation. While eagerly awaiting the show’s start, they engaged in lively conversations, sharing their admiration for Harnett’s music, and warmly showcasing their newly collected Sinéad Harnett merchandise to one another.
LOVE LIFE, VULNERABILITIES, AND ALL THINGS IN BETWEEN
Prior to Harnett’s performance, the stage was graced by opening act Hamzaa. Hamzaa is an R&B and soul vocalist hailing from London. Reaching 8:15 p.m., Hamzaa’s lively and alluring aura captivated the audience as soon as she took the stage. Performing her songs such as “Hard to Love,” “Heaven,” “Miracle,” and “Things Change,” Hamzaa’s set brought listeners on a complete journey. Through aspects of her love life, we could see a story being told amid gentle guitar melodies, smooth-flowing tones, and diaristic lyricism. Hamzaa’s soulful performance seamlessly transitioned into Sinéad Harnett’s set, setting a sincere and intimate tone for the rest of the night.
SETTING BOUNDARIES
At 9:15 p.m. the lights began to dim and the snippet of “Intro” from Harnett’s Boundaries album started to play. This intro incorporated beautiful dreamy background vocals as Harentt speaks about unearthing pain and caring for yourself. This introduction eloquently set the tone for the night and emphasized the healing energy the audience was about to experience.
After “Intro” ended, the music seamlessly transitioned into Harnett’s first song, “Shoulder.” Entering the stage dressed in a shimmering, sheer black top and red motocross pants, her charming stage presence immediately enticed the crowd. Harnett’s smooth vocals made it difficult not to become completely absorbed in the performance. It instantly immersed the listener in her captivating world, establishing the mood of “The Boundaries Tour” theme.
PHILADELPHIA KNOWS THE MOST
Closing out her song “The Most,” Sinéad then paused to check in with fans and revealed her gratitude for their attendance. Harnett stated, “I was here in 2019 and I didn’t sell out, but tonight I have.”
In response, the crowd erupted in enthusiastic cheers, their applause resonating throughout the entire venue. Additionally, the singer took a moment to request the audience to show their appreciation once again for Hamzaa, who had done an outstanding job of opening for her on tour.
Harnett declared, “It has been reassuring and beautiful because we have been going through the same thing and speaking about-”
“Boundaries!” A fan in the crowd exclaimed.
“Exactly, she shows me we are all the same, and music is what unites us,” Harnett exclaimed enthusiastically.
Going into one of her next songs titled “Ready Is Always Too Late,” Harnett shared a vulnerable story that many in the audience could relate to. Harnett disclosed, “I was spending time with someone and was wondering where it was going. I asked the person and he simply replied, ‘I don’t think we are quite ready, Sinéad. I’m not quite ready for you.’ It had been six months and I was just like, ‘If you’re not ready for me now you won’t get me.’”
While performing this song, Harnett’s voice conveyed a deep sense of emotion. The lyrics express feelings of longing and uncertainty about this connection. The song portrays a theme of patience and waiting for the right moment, but also a sense of urgency and worry about missed opportunities with the phrase “Ready Is Always Too Late.”
Through Harnett’s performance, she aptly captured the essence and intricate emotional landscape of her past relationship, delving into the concepts of love and timing.
ACOUSTICS AND HEALING
Going back into her set, she sang four more songs, which then led to her special portion of the night. Harnett incorporated a segment with acoustic performances, featuring her tracks “Stay,” “Heal You,” “Hard 4 Me 2 Love You,” and “Downtown.” As the room got quiet, her guitarist, Antonio, provided an incredible accompaniment as Harnett’s sultry voice filled the room.
With its warm and inviting ambiance, the Foundry provided the perfect setting for an intimate acoustic set, allowing Harnett to truly showcase her stunning vocal ability. The stripped-down performance not only highlighted her exceptional talent but also added a deeper layer of emotion and meaning to the lyrics of each song.
Harnett took a break from her songs to pay homage to R&B artist Aaliyah by performing a cover of “Are You That Somebody.” Her performance motivated fans to let loose and dance while she sang. Fans avidly sang along, showing their excitement for this surprise cover.
A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH
Harnett emphasized the significance of crowd interaction. For instance, during her performance of “Unconditional,” she prompted the audience to clap to the beat, effectively involving them in the song and keeping them engaged. Furthermore, she utilized call and response, resulting in concert-goers jumping and dancing.
Harnett concluded the show with encore performances of “Where You Been Hiding” and “If You Let Me.” The atmosphere was electric as the first notes of “If You Let Me” filled the air, sparking an uproar of excitement from the entire crowd. It was obvious that this particular song held a special place in the hearts of Harnett’s dedicated fans. From all corners of the venue, they passionately joined in, singing the lyrics in unison. The energy in the room was palpable, reaching its peak during this beloved song.
As the performance came to a close, Harnett took a moment to express her deep gratitude to her Philadelphia fans before graciously exiting the stage.
LEARNED BOUNDARIES
After completing the North American leg, Harnett will be advancing to Europe for the remainder of “The Boundaries Tour.”
Overall, this concert offered a captivating and immersive experience. Each song showcased deep emotions through introspective lyrics and powerful vocals. The set list for Harnett’s tour has been carefully curated, seamlessly navigating themes of love, heartache, boundaries, and healing.
Be sure to follow Sinéad Harnett on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X. Want to see Sinead Harnett on tour in Europe/UK? You can buy your tickets here!
Interested in reading more EnVi exclusive concert recaps? Check out EnVi’s recap of Laufey’s show in Taipei here!
