Jess Kav dazzled the stage at The Workman’s cellar on Saturday.

The opening act, PERSONA, sporting a shiny black dress and sparkling heels, absolutely rocked the crowd. With just two strobe lights and a computer, she was able to create an experience through her music. Her booming voice commanded the room, and the bass practically knocked me off my feet.

PERSONA at The Workman's Club. Copyright Emily Boyle.

Despite being her first headline show, Kav was a natural performer. The soul artist took inspiration from legends like Lauren Hill and Björk, which was evident through her rich, commanding voice.

Dancing around the stage, her excited energy quickly transferred to the audience. Her music, touching on themes of hope, rage and inner-healing, created a palpable sense of earnestness and highlighted the power of vulnerability. Alongside her were collaborators Louis Younge and Korey Thomas of Bricknasty and Finn O’Reilly of Left Iris. To top it off– Saturday was also the singer’s birthday, and her fans threw roses on the stage at the end of her show.

Both artists gave a memorable performance, and definitely deserve to be on your radar.

See the full photo gallery here.