David Ramirez Breathes New Life Into His Sound at The Kessler Theater
In the heart of Dallas’ Bishop Arts District, David Ramirez returned to The Kessler Theater on April 24th for an unforgettable night that felt as much like a homecoming as it did a musical rebirth. Touring ahead of the release of his highly anticipated album All The Not So Gentle Reminders, the Austin-based singer-songwriter delivered a performance that was raw, revelatory, and deeply resonant.
David Ramirez
From the moment Ramirez stepped onto the intimate stage, there was a palpable energy in the room — not one of raucous excitement, but of eager attentiveness, the kind that artists dream about and few consistently command. Backed by a lean but dynamic band, Ramirez opened with the slow-burning "Twin Sized Beds," setting a tone of quiet intensity that would build and release in waves throughout the evening.
David Ramirez
The new material from All The Not So Gentle Reminders feels like the purest distillation of Ramirez’s artistry yet — a wide-ranging musical journey tethered together by the sheer gravity of his voice. On songs like "Watching From a Distance" and "New Way of Living," he moved effortlessly between a ghostly whisper and a weathered croon, inhabiting the emotional core of every lyric.
David Ramirez
Highlights of the night included a searing rendition of "Harder to Lie," where Ramirez's voice cracked ever so slightly under the weight of the song’s confessional honesty, and "Teach Me Your Language," which blended Americana storytelling with a smooth, almost soulful delivery that had the audience hanging on every word.
David Ramirez
"The Music Man" and "Heaven" showcased his ability to balance stark vulnerability with quiet resilience, while "Waiting on the Dust to Settle" served as a showcase for the band, who added atmospheric depth without ever overwhelming the intimacy of Ramirez's performance.
By the time he closed the main set with the soaring "The Hard Way," followed by "Rules and Regulations" and the hopeful, cathartic "Find the Light," it was clear that All The Not So Gentle Reminders is not just another record — it’s a milestone. A reminder, indeed, of what makes David Ramirez one of the most compelling singer-songwriters to emerge from Texas in the last decade.
David Ramirez
There’s a new lightness to him now, but without losing the depth that has long been his signature. On this night at The Kessler, in a city that has been part of his journey since the early days, David Ramirez didn't just perform — he invited us into the next chapter of his story. And if this performance was any indication, it’s going to be one hell of a ride.
David Ramirez
Setlist:
Twin Sized Beds
Lover, Will You Lead Me
Watching From a Distance
New Way of Living
Harder to Lie
Teach Me Your Language
I Got People
The Music Man
Heaven
Waiting on the Dust to Settle
I Wanna Live in Your Bedroom
Coast to Coast
The Hard Way
Rules and Regulations
Find the Light