[CONCERT RECAP] Dream State: Seattle Surrenders to DPR’s Sonic Spell

Seattle Dreamers surrendered to the dream as DPR’s ‘The Dream Reborn’ World Tour ignited the WAMU Theater on September 10th.

The air crackled with anticipation as the WAMU Theater braced itself for an otherworldly invasion. DPR, the enigmatic collective known for pushing creative boundaries, descended upon the Emerald City, bringing their ‘The Dream Reborn’ World Tour to a fever pitch. Fresh off their electrifying Vancouver tour kickoff, the trio – DPR ARTIC, DPR CREAM, and DPR IAN – were primed to unleash a sensory symphony that would leave an indelible mark on the city.

DPR ARTIC: The Newcomer Sets the Stage Ablaze

The night ignited with DPR ARTIC, the newest addition to the DPR family. Though a relative newcomer, ARTIC’s energy and raw talent instantly captivated the crowd, who soon began chanting his name in unison. He commanded the DJ decks with undeniable skill, delivering a hypnotic set that pulsed through the venue, a perfect prelude to his own explosive tracks. The introspective “Post” set a contemplative tone, only to be shattered by the adrenaline-fueled “Escape.” ARTIC’s magnetic presence commanded every inch of the stage, proving that he was a worthy addition to the DPR crew. The infectious “Dream” showcased his lyrical dexterity and undeniable swagger, igniting a sing-along that echoed through the rafters. The set reached its zenith with a remixed version of “Do or Die,” an anthem of defiance that left the audience breathless and craving more, solidifying ARTIC’s place as an integral part of the DPR experience.

DPR CREAM: The Dreamweaver Weaves His Magic

As the lights shifted, an ethereal glow bathed the stage, inviting DPR CREAM, the enigmatic producer and vocalist, to weave his sonic magic. CREAM, ever the master of atmosphere, transported the audience to a dreamscape where genres melted and emotions ran deep. “Color Drive” and “Uzuz” showcased his ability to craft intricate soundscapes that defied categorization, while “Darling” and “I Miss U” revealed the duality of his vocal prowess, shifting effortlessly from tender falsetto to a commanding growl. With three songs left, the energy peaked as CREAM shed his jacket, revealing a custom Seattle Seahawks jersey, sending the crowd into a frenzy. He then seamlessly incorporated impromptu piano melodies and expertly manipulated the DJ decks, adding layers of spontaneity to his performance.

The grand finale arrived with “Savage,” CREAM’s raw vocals and the driving beat leaving the crowd breathless. It was a night where music transcended boundaries, emotions soared, and memories were etched in the hearts of all who were present.

DPR IAN: The Storyteller Unveils His Soul

A hush descended as DPR IAN, the visionary architect of the DPR universe, stepped into the spotlight. The haunting strains of “Welcome to the Other Side” sent shivers down spines, a prelude to an emotional odyssey that would unfold before their eyes. IAN’s presence was both commanding and vulnerable, his vocals a raw conduit for the complexities of the human experience. “Don’t Go Insane” invited introspection, delving into the depths of the psyche with haunting melodies and evocative lyrics.

Then, in a surprise twist, The Green, a recent enigmatic character from the DPR universe, emerged in a spotlight of his own. With a provocative dance number that set the stage ablaze, The Green showcased a unique side to IAN’s artistry, blurring the lines between reality and the fantastical world he had created. Only then did IAN join The Green, their combined energy electrifying the atmosphere as they transitioned seamlessly into the emotional rollercoaster of “So I Danced” and “Bad Cold.”

The inclusion of The Green was more than just a spectacle; it was a testament to IAN’s willingness to push boundaries and experiment with his art. It added a layer of depth and intrigue to the already captivating narrative, leaving the audience wondering what other surprises IAN had in store.

From there, the concert deepened into an intimate exploration of IAN’s emotional landscape. His ments to the crowd were raw and unguarded, baring his soul with a vulnerability that resonated deeply. At one point, he even summoned his alter ego, MITO, to join the conversation, creating a captivating dialogue between the two personas. The stage became a canvas for IAN’s inner world, his emotions painted in vivid strokes of light and sound, leaving the audience captivated and moved.

As the night built toward its climax, IAN delivered a string of his most beloved hits, including “Mood,” “Scaredy Cat,” “1 Shot,” “So Beautiful,” and “Dope Lovers,” each song a testament to his artistry and connection with his fans. The energy in the WAMU Theater reached a fever pitch, culminating in the grand finale, “Ballroom Extravaganza,” a dazzling spectacle of sound and light that left the crowd breathless.

But the night wasn’t over yet. As the final notes of “Ballroom Extravaganza” faded, DPR CREAM and DPR ARTIC emerged for a surprise final sendoff. The crowd erupted as they launched into another remix of “Do or Die,” this time with DPR CREAM taking the lead on vocals, offering a fresh and exhilarating take on the beloved track. It was a fitting end to an unforgettable night, a celebration of the DPR collective’s creative synergy and their unwavering bond with their fans.

A Shared Dream, A City Transformed

DPR’s Seattle performance was more than a concert; it was a shared experience, a communion between artist and audience, reality and dreamscape. The collective’s unwavering dedication to their craft and their refusal to be confined by genre or expectation resonated deeply with the Seattle crowd. As the final notes faded, a sense of unity lingered in the air. DPR had not only reborn their dream but had also awakened something profound within each person present. Seattle, forever changed, would carry the echoes of this night long after the lights had dimmed.

Images and words by @iamraeiam.