“Let’s take the sadness out of Monday night”, Bleachers lead singer Jack Antonoff jokingly expressed to a huge cheer during his altered Glasgow edition of Tom Wait’s ‘Jersey Girl’. Before subsequently blasting into his own song about his hometown, ‘Chinatown’ – a song that just so happens to feature fellow New Jersey native, Bruce Springsteen. Though from the minute you hear the nasal snarl of the saxophone that begins ‘Modern Girl’, alongside Antonoff’s ability to conduct his collection of master musicians through song after song of story laden, high octane, pop-rock brilliance. It’s clear to see Jack and Co share more than just a postcode with The Boss.
With such an incredibly paced set, bar queues and toilet breaks were out of the question. Bleachers new and old hits were spread well throughout, ‘Rollercoaster’ and ‘I Wanna Get Better’ were some personal highlights. Pretty much playing an even split of songs from all four albums, there was no reason to be disappointed with what I assume in the future could be considered a greatest hits set. The six-piece band utilised every inch of the Barrowland’s stage during the upbeat tunes, Antonoff even taking to the speakers either side of the stage, riling the crowd even more.
For the more gentle tracks, Jack was spotlit by the enormous “Recording studio in use” sign hanging above him. An open invitation into his day job for the crowd. Despite being a more than natural frontman, Antonoff’s typical 9-5 consists of producing for the pop megastars of today such as Lana Del Ray and Taylor Swift. Though you’d be forgiven if after only a few songs you thought this man had spent all the musical hours of his life mastering the art of the stage show.
After seeing fellow Jersey boys Gaslight Anthem the week prior, to a rather disappointing display of deep cuts and whiskey engulfed chatter, it was almost as if Jack and Co were on a mission to redeem the musical name of their home. A job well done, as if Bleachers stage persona hadn’t been so entirely captivating, I’d have spent the encore pricing flights from Glasgow to Newark.
Throughout the show Antonoff expressed his love for the musical heritage of Glasgow. His affection peaked during the bands cover of The Waterboys classic, ‘The Whole of the Moon’. A stripped back rendition allowing the crowd to be heard singing every line alongside the band. An approving Barrowland roar from the crowd for a rather classy ode to the city, that I can safely say no amount of kilt wielding encores from future American pop stars will ever live up to.
Bleachers are an astonishing collection of musicians taking the under appreciated talent of production to the stage. Antonoff claimed the first time Bleachers played Glasgow it was to nine people, I assume the third time will be to a smidge more.