Amidst the hazy Glasgow skyline, the TRNSMT 2023 Friday event unfolded like a tempestuous symphony, of raw energy and unfiltered passion that permeated the air.

Having taken over from the formidable T in the Park, TRNSMT can be seen as it’s baby brother. At 6 years old the festival still seems to be figuring out how to finesse a line up that both appeals to the masses but also has enough clout with the discernible music affecinado to coax them into buying a ticket.

I feel that this year there has been a reasonable attempt at doing so. A gathering of eclectic talents delivered a night that oscillated between introspective melancholy and unabashed revelry, leaving the crowd intoxicated by the musical delights on offer. Or by the copious amounts of Tennents being consumed within the hallowed grounds of Glasgow Green.

The View, a band synonymous with working-class fervor, burst onto the stage like the boisterous ragamuffins we remember. They’ve always brought an air of joviality to a festival audience and it’s good to see them back doing what they do best. Their gritty anthems, soaked in tales of urban realities and youthful rebellion, gripped the audience with an iron fist. Each song bellowed with unapologetic vigor, stirring the crowd into a frenzy of cathartic release. Standout Track: “Wasted Little DJ’s”.

Cloth emerged, veiling the stage in ethereal soundscapes and an air of introspective joy. Their delicate melodies intertwined with haunting vocals, conjure up the imagery of grey Sunday afternoons and heartbreak. The twins, Rachel & Paul Swinton garnered attention after being featured on the soundtrack for Normal People – a good fit for the bands evocative poetry found within their lyrics. Cloth’s music penetrates the depths of the human experience, extracting both sorrow and solace from the collective heart. Our stand out track was the breathless whisper of their latest single “Pigeon”.

With the arrival of The Big Moon, the atmosphere transformed into a kaleidoscope of unbridled energy. It’s no secret that The Golden Bough have been long term appreciators The Big Moon, armed with an arsenal of catchy hooks and infectious energy. The all-female quartet commanded the stage with unwavering confidence, delivering a set filled with indie rock gems that had the crowd dancing and singing along. Their tight harmonies and bubble gum melodies leave an indelible mark on all who witnessed their formidable charm. We flailed about in the crowd to “Your Light”

Warmduscher arrived on stage with enormous swagger and a heavy dose of disco laced funk. Their frenetic fusion of garage rock and punk detonated on stage like a Molotov cocktail, fueling an acceptable amount of chaos. With their relentless energy and uninhibited stage presence, Warmduscher proved that they are a force to be reckoned with, leaving a lasting impression on the crowd. We loved the absolute stomp that was “Friends in High Places”.

As the night neared its climax, the legendary Pulp took the stage, like a phoenix rising from the ashes – after all “This performance is an encore” as the visuals explained to the packed out festival audience. Jarvis Cocker’s magnetic presence and poetic lyricism electrified the final performance of the evening.

Pulp’s timeless hits, laced with sharp social commentary, unleashed a wave of nostalgia and an appropriate amount of fervour . Since our teenaged years we’ve always loved how Pulp’s music, dissected the human condition, exposing our desires, fears, and contradictions with unflinching honesty.

Jarvis and Co. held the audience in rapt attention from the first note. Their set was a masterclass in captivating performance, leaving no doubt as to why they are regarded as one of the greats. Too many hits to mention but notable mention goes out to, “Disco 2000” and “Babies”.

Words: Angela Canavan

Photos: Angela Canavan