After a Friday spent drenched in unavoidable downpours, followed by tentative Saturday sunshine, TRNSMT Festival was finally blessed with a true Scottish scorcher for its close on Sunday. Blaring sunshine and relentless heat graced Glasgow Green, drying out the mud to allow festival-goers in their thousands to enjoy the final day. 

Sunday’s programme leaned slightly more towards singer-songwriters and reflective performances, in contrast to the indie powerhouses of the previous days. Sets from Skye Newman and Finn Forster offered soulful moments, while the day also showcased the depth of Scotland’s music scene. From the folk-inflected storytelling of Jacob Alon and Katie Gregson-MacLeod, to the indie-pop charms of Abbie Gordon and Blair Davie, the festival’s commitment to Scottish talent was evident across the day’s line-up.

Later in the day, the confetti cannons and fireworks reserved for established Scottish headliners became a reminder of where such support may lead. If TRNSMT has built a reputation for giving an opportunity to the rising stars of Scotland, Sunday’s line-up suggested that one or two of these names could yet follow in the footsteps of Lewis Capaldi and Amy MacDonald, who, gracing the main stage, were met by an adoring homecoming. 

Artists from outside Scotland added their own twist to proceedings. Westside Cowboy brought their unique take on “Britainicana”, which sees a blend between American country music and the eccentricity of British indie lyrics. Overpass were true to form in providing the traditional British indie festival soundtrack, drawing a loyal, enthusiastic crowd that yelled every word from atop friends’ shoulders. Perrie, of Little Mix fame, brought true, unabashed, upbeat radio pop. 

However the real star of the festival was CMAT. The Irish star was funny, sincere, and an expressive performer, demonstrating how quality songwriting can be paired with a good time. Dressed in a yellow polka dot dress that popped against her red hair, CMAT’s skill came from not taking herself too seriously – joking with fans between songs as easily as she delivered them, completely at home in the Scottish sunshine. 

TRNSMT, a festival that always seems to be surrounded by whispers about its future and judgments of its success, remains a necessary fixture in the nation’s musical calendar.

Article: Anni Cameron

Gallery: Anni Cameron

Gallery: Marco Cornelli