Dermot Kennedy releases “Refuge,” the second single from his upcoming third album ‘The Weight of the Woods,’ arriving March 27 via Island Records. The Irish singer songwriter leans into vulnerability on this anthemic, acoustic-led track, which builds from quiet reflection to a soaring refrain. “If we never make it, at least we can say we died trying” lands like a mission statement, equal parts doubt and defiance.
“I like the ‘died trying’ lyric, because it reminds me of 50 Cent’s Get Rich or Die Tryin’,” Dermot explains. “On stage, I’ll feel supremely confident… but it’s not always the case. Gabe brought the vulnerability out of me.” Written and recorded near his home in rural Ireland with Gabe Simon, the 14-track album draws from Irish instrumentation and landscape, rooted in the forest behind his house and the sense of wonder it provides.
With his largest headline tour to date set for May and June, including London’s The O2 and two nights at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, Dermot steps into this era with renewed focus. From intimate pub performances to arenas and stadiums, his voice remains the anchor. “Refuge” signals an album shaped by home, honesty, and a renewed connection to the place that made him.
EUROPE AND UK HEADLINE TOUR 2026
11 May – Copenhagen, Denmark, Falkonersalen – SOLD OUT
12 May – Stockholm, Sweden, Annexet
14 May – Hamburg, Germany, Barclays Arena
15 May – Berlin, Germany, Max-Schmeling-Halle
17 May – Zurich, Switzerland, Halle 622
18 May – Paris, France, L’Olympia
20 May – Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Rockhal
21 May – Brussels, Belgium, Forest National
23 May – Munich, Germany, Zenith
24 May – Vienna, Austria, Gasometer
26 May – Dusseldorf, Germany, Mitsubishi Electric Halle
27 May – Amsterdam, Netherlands, AFAS Live
29 May – Glasgow, UK, OVO Hydro
30 May – Manchester, UK, AO Arena
1 Jun – Cardiff, UK, Utilita Arena
2 Jun – Leeds, UK, First Direct Bank Arena
4 Jun – Birmingham, UK, Utilita Arena
5 Jun – London, UK, The O2
11 July – Dublin, Ireland, Aviva Stadium – SOLD OUT
12 July – Dublin, Ireland, Aviva Stadium