Lucy Dacus delivered a memorable performance at the Riverside Theater on Sunday night, energizing the audience to round off their weekend in style. The concert featured an enthusiastic crowd, proving that a Sunday night show can be a highlight rather than a lullaby.
The evening began with opener Jay Som, who captivated the growing audience with tracks from her 2019 album “Anak Ko” and their recent collaboration with Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat World, “Float.” An impressive merchandise line indicated the fans were eager for Dacus’ offerings, with many sporting t-shirts emblazoned with phrases like “my boyfriend, Lucy Dacus.”
Dacus took the stage amid uproarious cheers, launching into “Hot & Heavy,” and soon revealed a backdrop adorned with LED images that enriched the visual experience. Over the course of her 90-minute set, she engaged the audience with a balanced mix of lively and somber songs, including the well-received “Ankles” and the emotionally charged “Limerance.”
Throughout the show, Dacus displayed appreciation for her fans and shared personal stories, including a remarkable journey from performing on a couch with injuries to headlining the venue. One of the night’s highlights was her proposal to officiate weddings during her tour, which led to three couples celebrating their unions in a heartwarming ceremony cheered on by the crowd.
The intimacy of the concert notably increased when Dacus sat on a couch for acoustic versions of “More Than Friends” and “Fools’ Gold.” Fans showed their support, echoing the lyrics of the stripped-down duet “Bullseye.” The energy picked back up as the set progressed, culminating in a vibrant performance of “Most Wanted Man” and a heartfelt rendition of the title track from her new album, “Forever Is a Feeling.”
Dacus playfully exited the stage only to return for an encore, which included the popular “True Blue” from her collaboration with Boygenius, inviting the crowd to sing along. As the night closed with the lively “Night Shift,” the connection between Dacus and her audience was palpable, and she left the stage with sincere thanks.
As attendees exited, it was clear that the show’s warmth and Dacus’ magnetic presence established a deep bond, with many fans expressing enthusiasm for future performances. Given their loyal reception, it seems likely that Dacus will make another stop in Milwaukee the next time she tours. It’s moments like these that remind us of the power of live music to create cherished memories and connections.