LA Sunshine Punk at its best.

Milk teeth have been shed and it is obvious that since recording their last album, The Linda Lindas have matured into a West Coast Punk phenomenon with razor-sharp teeth. A real take-no-prisoners live act that can mix it with the greatest on earth.

As diminutive as they may be, their presence is huge. Catchy, almost familiar songs, mixed with a frenetic energy and breathless banter, unite to create an uplifting, seamless feeling of joy.

Apart from coming on stage to the strains of Ozzy Osbourne they perform without fanfare or fairy tale backdrops. The Linda Lindas are an endless, authentic, kinetic ball of infectious energy.

They are cool and relaxed, humble and inquisitive, and not afraid to laugh at themselves. There is an obvious paradox between the band and the content of the songs and their titles, but isn’t that the nature of growing up? The mind-bending transition from teen to adult. All In My Head, Racist Sexist Boy, Growing Up and set opener No Obligation are the greatest examples of this.

It is possibly down to the shared vocals and lack of an absolute front person that makes the continual vocal exchanges between the band and the audience so personable. It is incredibly difficult not to join in. Yes, it’s true that Glasgow is in the vicinity of Spain … if you are going that way … and to Americans it may seem ‘just down the road!’ The novelty of rain to The Linda Lindas makes everyone laugh, and the laughter continues when someone has to explain that the chant ‘Here We F’ing Go’ is a term of ultimate affection and not the opposite.

The Linda Lindas are without doubt The Go-Go’s, The Runaways, Paramore, Rage Against the Machine and Motörhead rolled into one explosive unit – and that’s a good thing. The floor in Tut’s bounced tonight … more than I have ever felt Barrowlands bounce … much more!

It is impossible to know what the future holds for them. They chat fondly about songs only five years old, and to hear OH! live was an absolute highlight. The band already has so much experience under their belts and yet they are only in their mid-teens. It is obvious they are having the time of their lives, and we were lucky to be a part of that tonight.

Exuberance, beauty and positivity personified.

They are not brilliant because of their age or gender.

They just are brilliant. They got The Beat.

Words: Nick Tamer

Photos: Chris Hogge