Baxter Dury for the uninitiated is the uber chic proprietor of funk driven, disco led spoken word, punk music.

He’s been producing music for over twenty years, with a glittering back catalogue that has seen him make contributions to painfully cool compilation series Super Discount to collaborating with the likes of Fred Again.

It’s safe to say Baxter Dury has etched his own unique style onto the British music scene. He’s very much always marched (or Judo chopped if tonight’s performance is anything to go by) to the beat of his own drum for a while now and it has only brought him and his music from one strength to the next.

Born to Ian Dury of Blockheads fame in 1971 it’s clear to see where his unabashed stage presence comes from.

Tonight’s sold out show at the QMU in Glasgow was a mesmerizing journey through his eclectic discography, filled with wit and charm.

Dury sauntered onto the stage with that nonchalant demeanor that’s almost obnoxious but oh so cool. He didn’t give a damn about expectations, and neither did the swathes of bodies crammed into the venue.

It was like he raided a ’70s thrift shop for his wardrobe, and I’m not complaining – stacked gold necklaces and copious hip thrust? Yes, please.

Opening with “Leak at the Disco,” he immediately set the tone for a night of infectious grooves and storytelling.

Madeline Hart on keys provides beautiful soaring harmonies, whose whispering allure is the perfect contrast to Dury’s gravelly rasp. It’s the perfect overlay that dulls the sharp edge to Dury’s delivery,

“Isabel” followed, and it was a sultry slow burn, a haunting ballad that showcased the unique vocal style. The audience hung on every word, and Dury’s stage presence was undeniable.

“Slumlord” was a gritty journey into the underbelly of city life. Dury didn’t just sing it; he embodied it. You felt like you were in the alleys and backstreets he was describing.

The transition to “Happy Soup” was seamless, and the audience was treated to a captivating rendition of this fan-favorite track.

As we delved into “It’s a Pleasure,” the atmosphere shifted to one of bouncy joy, with the crowd singing along with every word.

“Cocain Man” was a highlight, with its infectious rhythm section provided by Shaun Patterson and witty lyricism. All delivered with Dury prowling and stomping around on stage like caged beast.

The performance of “Prince of Tears” was deeply emotive, tugging at the heartstrings of everyone in the venue.

The night concluded with “Shadow,” leaving a lingering sense of nostalgia and longing.

A Baxter Dury show is never going to be your typical polished, cookie-cutter show. But if that’s the kind of thing that floats your boat we suggest you move swiftly along.

The swaggering poet of Ladbroke Grove has other things planned for you.

Words – Angela Canavan

Photos – Angela Canavan