For the first time in two years, Joy Crookes returned to Dublin to perform a powerhouse set at Dublin's Academy. Fresh off the release of her debut album Skin, the London-raised Irish-Bangladeshi singer put her heart and soul into her incredible performance last night, November 11.

Opening the night was Kai Kwasi, who delivered a dreamy pop, R&B set. With tracks like 'sms' and 'ain't that just the way,' the South London musician provided a chill set that the audience clearly loved. He was accompanied by a pianist and saxophonist, both adding a beautiful jazzy texture to the performance.

Kwasi supporting Joy Crookes at The Academy. Thursday 11th of November 2021. Copyright Miguel Ruiz.

When Crookes took the stage, she was met with a crowd of adoring, screaming fans. It was clear, however, that they weren't giving her the energy that she wanted. After her opening song, 'I Don't Mind,' she cut the next track, jokingly asking the crowd to give her 10 times more atmosphere.

The audience didn't disappoint throughout the rest of the night, however; managing to match Crookes' incredible vibrancy. Through 'Trouble' and 'Wild Jasmine,' the concert attendees danced as she bopped around on stage singing her jazz-fuelled, R&B tunes.

Joy Crookes at The Academy. Thursday 11th of November 2021. Copyright Miguel Ruiz.

During slower tracks like 'To Lose Someone,' 'Unlearn You,' 'Don't Let Me Down' and 'Skin,' the audience continued to sing along while also admiring Crookes' killer vocals and stage presence. She grooved through her set, performing tracks like '19th Floor,' 'Yah / Element,' 'Power,' 'Kingdom' and 'Feet Don't Fail Me Now' with power, grace and unmatched talent. Before singing 'London Mine,' Crookes related the song back to Dublin, explaining how in London her Irish father met her Bangladeshi mother.

Joy Crookes at The Academy. Thursday 11th of November 2021. Copyright Miguel Ruiz.

After briefly leaving the stage, she returned to perform an encore of some fan favourites. She first appeared on stage alone, playing 'Theek Ache' on the piano before her band rejoined her for 'Two Nights' and 'When You Were Mine.' The last two upbeat tracks were a joyful end to the night, and the crowd sang along as Crookes danced on stage.

It was a warm welcome back to Ireland for the singer (who spent some time with friend and fellow artist Jafaris while she was here), and one can only hope that she comes back more often to gift us with her joyous presence.