“Je Voudrais Good Time” indeed!
I’ve never seen a gig quite like this one. Us Glaswegians (and one solo Canadian?) have been counting down the days. It’s a Sunday night at McChuills, and finally, the moment has arrived—a night of indie/electronic/cowbell/synth/Britpop sounds, humorous commentary, and PE shorts.
The stage appears more spacious than usual, as the band puts their trust in an almighty drum machine—undoubtedly to make room for all the galloping that takes place up there. A terrific tactic for enhanced performing! “BIG IN THE SUBURBS” is a huge hit, with the lead guitarist catapulting himself into the audience—something he seems to make a habit of. The band carries a sense of urgency, both sonically and physically, making them an exhilarating watch.
Although they’re relatively new—having released their first single, “ME AND YOUR MATES,” in May 2022—WELLY performs as if they’ve been touring for over a decade. This Brighton bunch is like gold dust in today’s musical world—think Sports Team meets Blur, with a hint of the ’80s.
The lead singer of Welly frequently chats with the audience between songs.
“Who took a gap year, then?” he asks.
“Me!” an audience member eagerly replies.
“Where did you go?”
“To college!”
“No, no, a gap year… as in a break from education.”
“Yeah, I took a gap year before university to go to college.”
Laughter erupts before they launch into “SOAK UP THE CULTURE,” a track dedicated to exploring time spent away from home—in the nicest way possible. This electrifying song boasts a repetitive chorus, making it brilliantly memorable and easy to sing along to.
A handful of my favorite Welly lyrics and songs:
• “My pockets must have holes ‘cause I don’t know where it all goes” – from “SHOPPING”
• “Don’t spend a lifetime looking for heaven when you can find it on the A27” – from “BIG IN THE SUBURBS”
• “Unpack your morals for Jack Kerouac’s novels” & “Posing for exposure on holiday in Cambodia” – both from “SOAK UP THE CULTURE”
Beyond their fantastic music, I have to highlight Welly’s authentic lyrical approach and their ability to create such a playful, uplifting atmosphere. It’s clear they’re just being themselves, and that authenticity shines through.
There’s no doubt this band is on an upward trajectory—they’re bound to skyrocket. Get a ticket to see them now while you still can, because they are going to be massive.
Their debut studio album drops at the end of March, and you can find upcoming tour dates here:
Article: Rose McEnroe
The Golden Bough 