Shortly after the video, technical problems forced Macklemore backstage while the issues were corrected. He didn’t return to until 9:45pm. Because of Marlay Park’s strict curfew of 10:45pm, Macklemore was forced to put on a somewhat expedited show, running through the hits, with limited video accompaniment.
This did little to dampen the audience’s spirit, with the crowd raucous during the delay, patiently awaiting the return of the star. Macklemore fed off the energy when he eventually reemerged, using the traditional chant of ‘Ole Ole Ole’ to build the atmosphere.
He kicked off with breakthrough single ‘Thrift Shop’ before running through the hits from his 2013 album The Heist, including ‘Same Love’, ‘White Walls’ , Can’t Hold Us’ and ‘Wing$’. He also delved into his pre-The Heist catalogue, performing his addiction lament ‘Otherside’ a Capella and donning a Ziggy Stardust-esque outfit for ‘And We Danced’.
Macklemore couldn’t depart without performing his tribute to his spiritual homeland, ‘Irish Celebration’, for which he donned a ROI soccer kit. Cynics may find the track pandering and condescending. Still, they would have been in a minority: the audience roared along while sprinkled in green, white and orange confetti.
Throughout he seemed humble, almost bashful, and constantly thankful of the audience. During the technical difficulties he would come out, talk to the crowd, applaud them for their patience. He embarked on an extensive explanation of his and Ryan Lewis’ friendship – why they are a duo as opposed to just Macklemore. While some may not enjoy the man’s music, he comes off as genuinely likable. Still with three quarters of an hour shaved off this excellent set, you were left wondering at what might have been.