CSS bring a revitalising reunion tour to Drygate brewery tonight in Glasgow, a fitting venue for this party crew as they brew up the brilliance of Brazil and sweet sounds of everything that indie sleeze has to offer.
With fast guitar licks, a grunge attitude and synth dance tunes, CSS have got us covered for a good time.
Sassy lead singer Lovefoxxx is not one to disappoint, engaging as much dancing as singing and keeping the energy at an all time high as the crowd chant “CSS sucks” following the first few notes of the “CSS suxxx”.
The heat is turned up throughout the night as electricity travels through the stage and onto the crowd when Lovefoxxx outlandishly throws herself into the hands of the sweaty audience for a crowd surfing session.
Something I was not expecting, but it only proves the ecstatic live energy and unpredictability of this band.
“City grrrl” is the epitome of rebellion and an iconic piece of dance music expressing the spirit of young female adult hood.
The night ends with a high spirited venga boys walk off outro “We Like to Party” a perfect ending to a party that we did not want to end. A slight feeling of sorrow lingers around the back of my mind knowing that the band will most likely not be touring again.
The message that Motherwell multi-genre rockers The LaFontaines were playing a gig on a Sunday afternoon in Inflata Nation was a surprise. The LaFontaines have been steadily building a reputation over the last 10 years for impressive live shows. Since their previous UK tour headlined at the 02 Academy Glasgow a soft play in Kinning Park seemed like a strange choice to start the next one. In a video lead vocalist Kerr described the struggles of balancing his new job of being a dad and his old job of playing live music gave them the idea of doing a show in a kid’s venue for the parents with childcare built in.
I took it as a sign to make it up to my certified swifty daughters who were too young to attend the megastar playing the same evening in Edinburgh, after excitedly playing them a few tracks they were nonplussed about the music but excited by the prospect of an inflatable playpark so it was a go.
On arrival, it was clear this was not going to be a smooth operation, confused looking parents looked around as the stage was being set up in the cupcake corner. As “Let it Go” blasted over the PA I wondered what type of practical joke was about to commence, however, the PA died down and the band got straight into “Since You Made a Move”. The sound is surprisingly impressive and the music sounds every bit as good as a regular venue. Lead vocalist Kerr Okan tries to convince everyone to shuffle forward but absolutely nobody obliges leaving him to have to foray into the crowd to avoid standing awkwardly next to the strawberry trampoline.
“I feel like I am at Butlins” exclaims Kerr as he sits down after 2 songs addressing the elephant in the room (there are actually a few elephants painted around this room), it is undoubtedly an awkward atmosphere, but a happy and bemused one, everyone has grins on their faces but don’t know quite what they should be doing instead of sitting sipping blackcurrant juice watching high energy hip hop rock. “A” is for “Alpha” is the kid-tailored introduction for their 2019 hit, Kerr manages to convince one of the youngsters who brought their own pretend guitar to get up on a seat and play to the crowd with the intensity of an 8-year-old Ian Curtis. The staff let Kerr get on the trampolines as the band goes through their hits and I expect I am not the only parent who has to fight the urge to mosh out on a bouncy castle. The kids are excited that something is happening but they can’t tell quite what it is and the attempt to herd them into a conga line during one song utterly fails.
The set is great live and it’s easy to think about how much fun this would be at a regular venue, I don’t believe any other bands have upcoming plans to play Inflata Nation but I am not sure many others could manage to overcome the surreal situation, Kerr is running around high fiving all the kids and the band gives off a warm and friendly vibe. After the songs are done they chat and take photos with all the families.
That evening while we were making our dinner the kids asked “Daddy, can we make a rock band?” I don’t think I will be able to write anything nicer in a review ever again. The LaFontaines 4th album “Business as Usual” is out on the 14th of June with an upcoming tour of more traditional venues like The Barrowlands in September if soft play is not your thing.
Los Angeles beloved fuzz-rock duo Deap Vally bid a raucous farewell to Glasgow at King Tuts, and what a send-off it was. Amidst a sea of pink perms, be-fringed cowboy shirts, and spangled boots, Lindsey Troy and Julie Edwards delivered a blistering set that was part The White Stripes, part Karen O, and all unforgettable.
Kicking things off with “End of the World,” Troy confessed that the music video was filmed right here in Glasgow. Their love for the city shone through, reminiscing about summers spent with their kids in Kelvingrove Park. The local connection had the crowd swooning and set the tone for an evening that felt both intimate and electric.
“Walk of Shame” followed, a gritty anthem that had everyone bouncing, and it became clear that Deap Vally weren’t just saying goodbye—they were making sure we’d never forget them. “Gonna Make My Own Money” and “Your Love” came next, each song dripping with raw, bluesy energy. It’s this blend of garage rock swagger and punk spirit that makes Deap Vally such a force.
There are many thanks to be made Troy’s mum has flown across the Atlantic with a small child in tow to allow this tour to happen. There are plenty of Mum Rock jokes to be made, gratitude is extended to everyone from fans documenting the tour to the friend running the merch stall. The gig truly has a DIY feel to it.
“Lies” and “Raw Material” saw the duo hitting their stride, the latter’s heavy riffs reverberating through the historic venue. But it was “Six Feet Under” that truly brought the house down, a sonic onslaught that had fans losing their minds.
In true rock and roll fashion, the second half of the set was a marathon of eight songs—so forget calling it an encore. “Ain’t Fair” and “Grunge Bond” kept the momentum going, with stage diving and crowd surfing becoming the new norm. It was chaos, but the kind you never want to end.
By the time they got to “Smile More,” King Tuts felt like it might burst at the seams. And when Solon Bixler of the support band joined them for “It’s My World” and “Perfuction,” the energy reached a fever pitch. The night ended on a high with “Royal Jelly,” leaving everyone in the room drenched in sweat and high on rock ‘n’ roll euphoria.
Deap Vally’s farewell tour might be the end of an era, but last night at King Tuts, they proved they’ll never be forgotten. If you missed it, you missed history—but at least we’ve got the memories, and oh, what memories they are.
Richard Hawley’s live performance at Glasgow Barrowlands was a masterclass in musical and emotional dexterity, evocatively capturing the intricate layers of his discography while paying homage to past and present influences. The evening’s setlist served as a poignant journey through Hawley’s oeuvre, providing both long-time fans and new listeners with a profound live music experience.
Agreeing to go to this show when one is feeling slightly out of alignment with the concept of romantic love – seems borderline sadistic. Hawley is renowned for penning more than his fair share of romantic ditties. Infact, the this evenings set is littered with shimmering odes exulting the joy of finding true love. Ever the glutton for punishment off I went camera and pen in hand.
The show began with “She Brings the Sunlight,” immediately immersing the audience in Hawley’s rich, reverb-laden soundscapes. The track’s expansive feel set a high bar for the evening, showcasing Hawley’s unparalleled ability to blend his distinctive baritone with lush instrumentation. Following this, “Two for His Heels” brought a shift in tempo and mood, its bluesy undertones and intricate guitar work highlighting Hawley’s versatility as both a vocalist and guitarist.
“Prism in Jeans” continued the journey with its dreamy, nostalgic melody, creating an intimate atmosphere that enveloped the Barrowlands. This was swiftly followed by “Open Up Your Door,” a fan favourite (this fan to be precise) that elicited an immediate, heartfelt response from the audience. As couples new and old sidled together to sway in synchronicity together. Hawley’s delivery was both powerful and tender, his voice resonating with a depth of feeling that only comes from years of lived experience.
As the set progressed, the haunting “Just Like the Rain” and the anthemic “Tonight the Streets Are Ours” showcased Hawley’s ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. Each note seemed to reverberate with a sense of place and memory, drawing the audience deeper into his world.
“Coles Corner,” a highlight of the evening, was performed with a poignant sensitivity that left the crowd mesmerized. The song’s reflective nature served as a perfect prelude to “Heavy Rain,” a track dedicated to Steve MacKay of Pulp. Hawley’s introduction—“I wrote this song for my brother Steve Mackay of Pulp. We knew each other since school and he sadly left us last year. I hate that word ‘processed,’ but this is how I got the feelings out”—was a heartfelt tribute that underscored the emotional weight of the performance. The dedication added a layer of solemnity and respect, resonating deeply with the audience.
“Don’t Stare at the Sun” and “Heart of Oak” continued to build on this emotional crescendo, with Hawley’s commanding presence ensuring every lyric and chord struck home. The 2000 strong capacity audience stood in almost perfect silence for “People”, the crowd’s rapt attention was palpable, a testament to Hawley’s ability to captivate and hold an audience through sheer musical prowess.
This was followed by “I’m Looking for Someone to Find Me” and finally when Hawley introduced “The Ocean” with a hint of sarcasm—“We don’t play this one often anymore”—it was a moment of light-heartedness that contrasted beautifully with the song’s introspective lyrics. The audience’s silent reverence during the performance was telling; the Barrowlands stood in awe, hanging on every note. A fitting finale that encapsulated the evening’s themes of love, loss, and longing. The song’s sweeping orchestration and Hawley’s evocative delivery left the audience in a reflective state, a perfect end to a night of beautiful music even for the brokenhearted…
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Queen’s Park transformed into a big topped carnival, epicentre. Glaswegian punters typically looking to forego the hiked up festival prices for beer, seemed to all descend en masse… A queue that appeared to consist of all 2,500 partygoers formed just before festival organisers had posted last entry of 5pm. Despite entry technicalities and initial sound issues the festival was a roaring success.
The Queens Park weekender was curated by two much beloved juggernauts of the Glasgow DJ scene with Melting Pot designing the line up for Saturday and Optimo Espacio hand selecting guests for Sunday – the mini festival has much to offer in the way of a diverse portfolio of artists in attendance.
Kicking off the festivities was the incomparable Rebecca Vasmant, whose jazz-infused rhythms set the perfect tone for the weekend ahead. Known for her seamless blend of live instrumentation and electronic beats she captivated the audience, drawing them into a hypnotic groove that lingered long after her set ended.
Next up was the enigmatic Billy Woods, whose atmospheric soundscapes transported listeners to otherworldly realms. With each carefully crafted beat, Woods wove a tapestry of big disco floor fillers that evoked a sense of wonder and exploration, leaving the crowd spellbound.
Stepping into the limelight was the esteemed DJ Paulette, whose infectious energy ignited a frenzy on the dance floor. From house anthems to disco classics, Paulette masterfully curated a set that kept the crowd moving and grooving.
As the night reached its peak, Norwegian prodigy Todd Terje took center stage, unleashing a torrent of euphoria upon the eager audience. With his signature blend of cosmic disco and infectious melodies, Terje transformed Queen’s Park into a celestial dance party, uniting revelers in a collective state of bliss.
Rounding out the lineup for Day 1 was none other than The Blessed Madonna, whose electrifying performance brought the festival to a climactic close. With her infectious charisma and impeccable track selection, The Blessed Madonna commanded the stage with unparalleled finesse, leaving the crowd begging for more.
Day 2
Sunday provided a much more boutique feel to the festival having been curated by Glasgow’s very own pioneers of the eclectic; Optimo Espacio. This year, the lineup was a testament to the extensive tastes and unwavering passion of our city’s music aficionados.
Kicking off the festivities was the legendary Aba Shanti-I, whose roots reggae rhythms transported us to a higher state of consciousness. With his thunderous basslines and uplifting melodies, Aba Shanti-I set the stage for a day of sonic exploration.
Joy Orbison and Optimo took to the decks for a back-to-back set that defied expectations. Their seamless transitions and genre-defying selections kept the crowd on their toes, moving effortlessly between house, techno, and everything in between.
But it was the electrifying performance by ESG that truly stole the show. I’ve been desperate to see the band since the last played Glasgow some 20years previously.
Hailing from the streets of the Bronx, ESG which translates to the Scroggin’s sisters birthstones of; emerald, sapphire and gold brought their unique blend of punk-funk to Queen’s Park, igniting a riotous frenzy among the crowd. Theatrics abound with headstands, alien masks and some of the most spirited whistle (tooting?) I’ve heard in a long time. It’s near impossible to tear your attention away from the stage.
From the infectious grooves of “UFO” to the frenetic energy of “Moody,” ESG delivered a masterclass in raw, unadulterated funk. When Renee Scroggins stood for the final song, “Erase You”, the crowd lost what was left of their minds and left us breathless and begging for more.
And of course, no Queen’s Park Weekender would be complete without the peerless Optimo Espacio. Closing out the weekend with their trademark blend of eclecticism and energy, Optimo took us on a journey through the annals of musical history, weaving together sounds from across the globe into a tapestry of musical brilliance garunteed to get your feet moving.
In the end, the Queen’s Park Weekender proved once again why it holds a special place in the hearts of Glasgow’s music lovers. With its diverse lineup and infectious energy, this mini festival is a celebration of everything that makes our city’s music scene so vibrant and unique. Until next year, Queen’s Park
As Kula Shaker enter the stage to familiar Indian chimes, and a backdrop of Ganesh, the elephant headed Hindu god, I’m transported back to the simpler times of the late nineties and the Barrowlands in January 1997 – the last time I saw Kula Shaker live on stage.
Nearly 3 decades later the 4 piece band certainly still know how to play and the Indian influences that drew in their sizeable audience back then are still evident.
With Crispian Mills looking resplendent in his blue kurta, his mic stand entwined in a flower garland and a definite scent of incense in the air, the band kick off with Gaslighting – the first song on their new album Natural Magick. We’re told that as ‘Brothers and Sisters, we are gathered here together to witness the great congregation in the Aquarian age of communication and re-humanization’. A bold statement to a crowd of middle-aged Glaswegians but it’s a strong start and a good introduction to the new album that the band are promoting. Crispian rocks out his guitar solos and the Hammond organ gets its first outing…and who doesn’t love a Hammond organ?
Next up it’s one of the songs that defined Kula Shaker way back when – and as we’re informed, their only song with a drum intro. Those drums and the subsequent wah-wah guitars of Hey Dude get the crowd, many of who I suspect were also at the Barras in 97, singing along.
Back to the present day and three songs from their new album, starting with the sixties-influenced and sitar-led Waves before the title track, and the album’s first single Natural Magick. It’s a chance for Mills to show off his guitar skills and any songs that can rhyme sikhs, geeks, lepers, creeps, wizards, witches and Jesus freaks deserves credit! Next up – a Kula Shaker meets the Monkees sing-along with obvious reference to their cultural and musical influences – Indian Record Player – a song written by the Drummer Paul’s Brother has the crowd bopping along.
A walk through the band’s back catalogue now. Starting with the melodic and, I’ve always thought, a bit Beatles-Influenced (in a good way!) Start All Over from breakthrough album K. The Hammond organ gets a chance to shine as it accompanies the sitar on Infinite Sun as we are told to fly like an eagle. The balladic I’m Still Here from the album Peasants, Pigs and Astronauts leads us back to the 90’s. A change of tempo into the upbeat and well-received Grateful When You’re Dead with its sing-along ‘Bah-Bah-Bah’ chorus getting the Glaswegian audience going, before the haunting reprise of Gerry Was There brings the pace back down to a hypnotic-sway along, with its ukulele strings providing the background to Mills’ hippyish dance moves before the guitar solo kicks in & he’s giving Hendrix like guitar riff vibes.
Returning to the extensive back catalogue, Bringing It Back Home with its Pinball Wizzard-like crescendos and Shower Your Love have those loyal fans who have followed the bands journey over the last 3 decades appreciating the trip down memory lane. We’re then bang up to date with a trio of songs from Natural Magick. First up is Happy Birthday– an ode to Hare Krishna, Birthdays and Hallelujuahs before Idon’twannapaymytaxes a song that was influenced by the musings of Crispians son. As many of Kula Shaker’s songs do, it promotes peace and is anti-war – as is the next song F-Bombs, with its F-War chant. The Glasgow crowd need no excuse for the use of public profanity and are happy to get on board with the message.
We’re going old school again for the last 3 songs of the set. You can find your way home on the 303, Mills sings as the crowd remember which number of nightbus took them back to Drumchapel in the 90s, before the familiar guitar tones of Tattva kick in and have the crowd singing along in their fluent Sanskrit before trying their best Mancunian as it borrows a section of the Happy Monday’s Hallelujah. Finishing with probably their best-known song – the 1997 cover of Deep Purple’s Hush has the crowd rocking along, there’s a retro-tinged joy in the old Galvanisers yard as the band take their first bow.
Quickly into the encore (well we’re all a bit older now & need to get home for our cocoa) the boys kick back off with Great Hossanah followed by Govinda, it’s another chance for the crowd to get their hands in the air and sing about Hare Krishna so joyously it’s as if he scored the goal at Hampden to take Scotland to the Euro’s this summer.
Keeping to the joyous theme, the final song of the evening is a quite magnificent cover version of Dee-Lite‘s anthemic Groove is in the Heart. And with that I’m transported back to the 90s and dancing like no one is watching.
Folly Group returned to the King Tuts stage (we last seen them here a few months previous supporting Geese) having capably amassed a honourable following to call their own.
Outside the streets are awash with a deluge of drizzle. Inside King Tuts are having their own alternative St.Patrick’s Day bash with the promise of Fontaines D.C. furnishing the after party soundtrack via a DJ Set.
Folly Group are an unlikely assemblage of peers, formed in London as former flat mates. The band Led by Sean Harper (singer and drummer), Kai Akinde Hummel (percussion), Tom Dehorty (guitar) and Louis Milburn (bass), took to the stage at King Tut’s in Glasgow, delivering a performance that was nothing short of electrifying.
With an eclectic mix of influences ranging from The Rapture’s danceable grooves to Massive Attack’s atmospheric vibes and ESG’s minimalist funk, the band captivated the audience from the first note to the last.
The band are currently touring their long awaited debut LP “Down There”, having previously teased us with some truly captivating singles it’s great to see these guys sinking thier teeth into something more concrete.
Opening with the absolute stomp of a track that is “Awake and Hungry,” Folly Group wasted no time in setting the tone for the evening. The crowd was immediately drawn in by the infectious energy emanating from the stage, unable to resist the urge to move to the beat.
As the set progressed, the band seamlessly transitioned between tracks, each one a testament to their versatility and creativity. “Four Wheel Drive” showcased their ability to blend genres, effortlessly fusing elements of post-punk and electronic music into a completely new colourful creature of its own.
“East Flat Crows” saw the band delving into darker territory, showcasing Harpers depth of tone in his vocal range, he looks like like a young Keanu Reeves but has the gravely undertones of Tom Waits after a bout of laryngitis, all served on a bed of double percussion.
But it was tracks like “Pressure Pad” and “Fashionista” that truly set Folly Group apart, with their infectious hooks and irresistible bass grooves. I mean who doesn’t love double cow bells? The crowd couldn’t help but dance along, swept up in the band’s tight performance.
There is even room for comparison with Glasgow’s very own Humour – unsurprising then when Harper jokes about live streaming a midnight closet reveal as they seem to be crashing at thier flat this evening. With several mentions of staying to hang out with the band at the merch desk the gig has a very welcoming and open flat party vibe to it.
As the set drew to a close, Folly Group treated the audience to a flurry of fan favorites, including “I’ll Do What I Can” and “Strange Neighbour,” each one leaving the crowd begging for more. By the time they launched into the anthemic “Frame,” the entire venue was in a state of toe tapping, head bopping joy.
In the end, Folly Group’s performance at King Tut’s was nothing short of spectacular. With their unique blend of influences and undeniable talent, they proved themselves to be a force to be reckoned with on the live music scene.
In order to gain access to Edinburgh’s The Caves venue you first must complete the “find the venue” side quest. Google Maps will take you to a bridge above the sheltering spot of the multi-purpose venue, where we stumbled on a couple also looking dejectedly at a flat close entrance wondering where we can hear the sound rumble up through the centuries old stones.
Together, and with the help of a wisened elderly man waiting for the bus home we set off down a rambling back alleyway and with only the distant BPM leaking out from the venue we eventually found ourselves at the tucked away threshold of the medieval archway.
Sadly, this also meant that we missed the majority of Psychotoc Monks play their set but from what we did hear, they provided a formidable counter part to Gilla Bands headline act.
Having missed out on tickets way back in 2016 to catch Gilla Band – touring under the moniker of Girl Band before they switched their name in 2021, it’s fair to say that this evenings show was eagerly awaited with much anticipation, and honestly? This performance quaked our bones to the very core.
Kicking off with the infectious beats of “Fucking Butter,” they immediately set the tone for a night of unapologetic, raucous fun. Bassist Daniel Fox slide bass technique is full of frothy allure, a sound akin to a siren going off amidst a breakout at the asylum. See below.
“Going Norway” followed, oozing unbridled, punk energy with lyricist Dara Kiely drawling and slurring syllables in the same styling of James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem.
However you can transplant a buzzing wall of sound from guitarist Alan Duggan and salacious, spiralling drums from Adam Faulkner for that of the glitchy fun disco beat that LCD are known for.
Gilla Band are a veritable maelstrom of bedlam. The crowd were instantly hooked. Admittedly it was strange to see men throw themselves around with wild abandon in a venue usually reserved for weddings…
The audience eagerly anticipated what came next. “Post Ryan” hit like a musical punch to the gut, its raw lyrics and intense instrumentation resonating with the audience’s emotions. Imagine The Fall being electrocuted by Bdrmm after dropping steroids and you are not too far off the heady concoction of this track.
Switching gears, Gilla Band ramped up with the gritty charm of “Bin Liner Fashion,” a track that turned The Caves into a makeshift runway for the unconventional and bold or for those willing to seethe in the bubbling mosh pit.
The atmosphere shifted with “Umbongo,” an anything but tropical-infused anthem, with screaming drums (seriously what BPM is this and does Faulkner have an extra set of arms?) juxtaposed with somber moments with Kiely lamenting about fighting a pigeon.
There is a stop-start tempo to this track that’s abrasive beyond belief and seems to defy all logic with the song ending so abruptly it seemed like a plug was pulled from an amp.
But this is exactly what Gilla Band serve up steamy ladle after ladle. They defy contemporary ideals, a beautiful, irate howling at the moon. A tonic to colonial capitalism and all the bureaucracies that modern life entails.
A chokehold on oppression, reminiscent of early Nirvana.
As the night progressed, “Eight Fivers” a song about hipsters and buying “shit clothes” delivered with a snarl enveloped in irony. There’s elements of guitar here borrowed from Just Mustard and Primal Scream.
The penultimate track of the evening is a blinding cover of “Why Do They Hide Their Bodies Under My Garage?” By Blawan. An absolute stomping Titan of a track perfectly encapsulating the visceral energy of the concert. The castle like walls, now dripping wet.
Closing the show with “The Cha Cha Cha,” Gilla Band left us craving more, proving once again that their live performances are an unmissable experience, weaving together a tapestry of musical genres that captivates the soul and attempts to jolt awake a society sleeping on corruption. Or then again maybe it’s just some songs about fighting pidgeons?
Edinburgh won’t be forgetting this night at The Caves anytime soon, we suggest you keep your eyes peeled for the Dublin quartet to head to your town soon.
St Luke’s is a very intimate venue with a low stage that’s very close to the crowd and is just round the corner from the renowned Barrowland Ballroom.
Kill the Pain is a pop funk duo comprising of Phoebe Killdeer and Melanie Pain (see what they did there?).
Phoebe and Melanie have both previously featured on Nouvelle Vague albums so it’s no surprise that they have great stage presence and phenomenal voices. Fun fact, Vague is pronounced to rhyme with bag.
The lights went down, and the band walked on the stage in robot fashion striking dramatic poses with each step. Phoebe was wearing a very high, sparkly tinsel wig which didn’t come off until the third song. We can attest to the fact that these things are not fashioned to be worn all night as they’re very hot and can make you very sweaty!
They performed mainly to pre-recorded backing tracks, taking turns singing, playing bass, keyboard and occasionally a shaker.
They launch into Watch Your Step with the opening lyric ‘Excuse me, I’m sorry, I think you’re standing on my foot’. It must be said that the foot in question was encased in a very striking neon green boot. Funky drums and bassline with a spoken word style of singing.
This is the kind of music that you can’t help but dance to and the crowd were certainly enjoying it. Next up was Skinny with the standout lyric being ‘I was born skinny but my hands are made of steel’.
Chiwawa was next on the set list, a more laid-back track which seemed to be about releasing your inner chiwawa (I’m assuming a chiwawa is the same as a chihuahua) although the lyrics are quite sexualised so who knows?
Meditations was the highlight of the set with the crowd joyously singing along to the opening phrase “What the fuck is going on, what the fuck is going on, what the fuck is going on”.
Any members of the audience who had been asking this question when the duo rocked onto the stage like a couple of Austin Powers Fembots were definitely on board at this stage. Bit of a samba beat to this one, but still very funky.
Before the final song of the set Melanie spoke about the fact the song was about stories from the tour and what happens on tour stays on tour… unless you write a song about it.
Good girl has a very fast beat but again has an almost spoken style of singing. It’s all about some guys that they ‘met’ while on tour, an American guy, a guy from the Netherlands and a French guy. Each one pretty much useless.
A fantastic set from Kill the Pain.
Nouvelle Vague is a French cover band who cover mainly punk songs in a Bossa Nova style. This show is part of their 20th anniversary tour and over the past 20 years they have featured several singers.
In tonights show the singers that are joining them are Marine Quemere and Alonya, who both appear on the album Should I Stay or Should I Go.
The opening song of the set is Love Will Tear Us Apart by Joy Division.
The stage is in darkness with only spotlights picking out the members of the band, Marine is singing this one, but she is in total darkness throughout the song.
The track is quite melancholic, but it’s very well known as it appeared on their first album and this version of the Joy Division classic was one that found them fame two decades ago.
Alonya joins Marine on stage to perform People Are People by Depeche Mode. The drummer was almost horizontal at times during this song but still managed to conduct the band, as he did throughout the whole set. As with Love Will Tear Us Apart this song has a real sense of melancholy and is sung beautifully.
Alonya is left on stage to sing the next song which is Only You by Yazoo. This one is much more upbeat and got a strong reaction from the audience who were loving it.
The singers swap and Marine takes charge of Making Plans for Nigel by XTC. This track goes back to the strong Bossa Nova style and features smooth lilting vocals by Marine.
The slow bouncing ska beat helps me realise she’s signing Girls on Film by Duran Duran. This song is probably the furthest from the original, but it’s delivered so well and is a fantastic cover.
Other mentionable tracks are; What I Like Most About You is Your Girlfriend by The Specials, Marian by The Sisters of Mercy, You Spin Me Round by Dead or Alive, Shout by Tears for Fears.
The stage is bathed in green light for the next song and once again the singers switch. Alonya stands in front of the mic while sounds of nature are played over swinging bongos and intricate bass. The song is A Forest by The Cure which starts out very subdued but during, what I think might be, a marimba solo Alonya dances frenetically.
Next up is the bands version of John Peel’s favourite song, Teenage Kicks by The Undertones. She asks the audience “Are we ready to have some fun?” which, to be fair they are, but this version gives the audience more of a middle aged shuffle than a teenage kick.
The tempo really goes up as Alonya and the band launch into Just Can’t Get Enough by Depeche Mode.
The audience are loving it and dancing along. It’s quite easy to spot which sections of the crowd support a certain football team as they chant along to the song.
This is the fourth song in a row that Alonya has been at the mic. A very different take on the Guns of Brixton by The Clash which has a bit of a Disney Villain feeling to it. You can really imagine this being sung by Cruella De Vil.
At this point it’s clear to see that the audience are reacting more to the songs from the bands first album. It also must be said that the singers have great voices, there’s nowhere for them to hide behind the music especially on the more stripped back songs. The band and singers are so tight and there’s not a single note out of place throughout the whole night.
Both singers take to the stage for the next song which is Too Drunk to Fuck by Dead Kennedys. The familiar beat kicks in and the audience has a great time singing along.
Marine and Alonya are joined on stage by Kill the Pain for their rendition of Friday Night Saturday Morning by The Specials which Phoebe sings most of.
The audience are enjoying it, but things are cranked up at the end when the song speeds up and takes a turn towards its ska origins and all four singers launch into a mini encore.
The band leave the stage but very quickly come back on for their first encore which takes us back to the bands roots and what they do best a version of Ever Fallen in Love with Someone by Buzzcocks, sung by Marine.
I think that Nouvelle Vague may have a real chance at doing the next Bond theme with their version of She’s in Parties by Bauhaus. Phoebe sings this one and she’s giving real strong Shirley Bassey vibes.
Quite possibly the best song of the night and further proof that any other singer can sing a Smiths song better than Morrissey. Melanie and the band make This Charming Man sound more like The Girl from Ipanema. Like a meeting of a Salford social club on Copacabana beach.
Marine takes over the microphone for the penultimate song and falsely tells the audience this is the last song. She breezes through I Melt With You by Modern English, the song that launched a million lounge version covers for use in car adverts.
Again, the band leave the stage but very quickly come back on for the final encore. The classic rhythm starts and we’re into In a Manner of Speaking by Tuxedomoon a rather strange choice of last song as it is very slow, however Alonya sings it so beautifully and so purely that the audience goes home happy.
In the dimly lit confines of Glasgow’s legendary King Tut’s, Edinburgh’s song writing duo No Windows offer a super twee and cutesy opening set this evening with lots of goofy between song jibes towards own another.
Their music is a delicate blend of low-Fi garage definitely for fans of tonight’s headliners Just Mustard.
Although they may still be in their teenage years their music is beyond their years. We enjoyed trucks “Shout”and “Eggshells” they will be back Headlining King Tut’s themselves towards the end of January so mark up your diary appropriately.
Next up this evening and becoming our fast favourites are Glasgow’s very own Humour. A band set for bigger things their music is witty, political and thunderously loud. So loud Infact I can feel my eyeballs shaking around my cranium. We absolutely adore the irreverent shrieking masterpiece that is ‘Halfwit’ and the emo caterwauling of ‘Yeah, Mud!”.
Just Mustard hail from Dundalk in Ireland and our romance with this band begun in lockdown when the closest thing to going to a gig was watching live sets on You Tube (large sigh).
We stumbled across their live set at STCstudios and were instantly hooked. The brand of heavy shoegaze, wall of sound sonic landscape, overlayed with the angelic disposition of vocalist Katie Bell makes for a beautiful but intense listening experience.
I have to admit, I was told they may have their first album 2018’s ‘Wednesday’ on sale at this show but alas it was not meant to be. I’ve been trying to find it for years. But the band boldly seem to be on tour without a single item of merch.
Shrouded in blue light the band amble on stage to rapturous applause and unleash a undulating tapestry that enraptured the audience, weaving through their set with a compelling blend of intensity and ethereality.
The evening kicked off with “Seven,” an entrancing opener that set the tone for the night, immediately immersing the crowd in the band’s atmospheric prowess.
David Noonan and Mete Kalyon’s layered guitars sing and soar beautifully in chaotic patterns that somehow compliment each other while the driving foundation of unrelenting bass of Rob Clarke, underpins each verse.
As the haunting echoes of “Seven” lingered, seamlessly transitioning into “Curtains,” the audience found themselves enveloped in the swirling melodies and lyrics.
Katie Bell is an enigmatic, fixed presence on stage, staunch yet serene at the same time she portrays the whispering intensity of Dot Allison whilst all around her the reverberation of noise seems to tremble off of the walls ofa packed out King Tuts.
Just Mustard’s ability to navigate between moments of haunting delicacy and explosive crescendos became evident, creating an emotional ebb and flow that resonated through the venue.
The transition to “Early” showcased the band’s versatility, with shimmering guitars and the delicate vocals of Katie Ball casting a hypnotic spell. The interplay between the instruments, notably the intertwining of guitarists David Noonan and Mete Kalyon, demonstrated a nuanced understanding of their craft, adding layers of complexity to their sound.
“Deaf” emerged as a sonic juggernaut, with thunderous drumming courtesy of Shane Maguire driving the song’s relentless momentum. The intensity was palpable, each beat resonating through the venue’s walls, creating an immersive experience that left an indelible mark on the audience. It was “Deaf” that made us fall in love with Just Mustard and finally getting to hear it live was absolutely stunning.
As the set progressed, the band delved into the dreamy textures of “Frank,” a track that showcased the otherworldly depth of Just Mustard’s palette. The juxtaposition of serene vocals against a backdrop of intricate instrumentals created a sense beauty, captivating the audience in a contemplative trance.
“Pigs” served as a dynamic pivot, injecting a dose of raw energy into the performance. The crowd responded with enthusiastic fervor, mirroring the band’s infectious onstage energy. The convergence of powerful vocals and pulsating rhythms underscored the band’s command of the stage, drawing the audience deeper into their cataclysmic journey.
“October” brought a moody atmosphere, with brooding basslines and evocative lyrics. Just Mustard’s ability to evoke a range of emotions was on full display, as the audience navigated the landscape shaped by the band’s meticulous craftsmanship.
The haunting strains of “Still” provided a moment of reflection, a respite that showcased the band’s capacity for subtlety. Katie Ball’s vocals soared, delivering a performance that resonated with both vulnerability and strength, leaving the audience in hushed tones.
Closing the set with “Seed,” Just Mustard unleashed a swirling crescendo, bringing the evening to a climactic end. The convergence of all the elements that define their sound — the intricate guitar work, pulsating rhythms, and evocative vocals — reached a zenith, leaving the crowd stumbling out into the cold November evening, ears ringing and hearts full.
The Irish quintet’s ability to seamlessly navigate between the delicate and the ferocious marks them as a formidable force in the contemporary music landscape, and their performance at King Tut’s solidified their place as purveyors of scuzzy guitar driven enchantment.
The Golden Bough 