Dopamine’s first-time headlining Glasgow and they more than delivered an outstanding performance to their dedicated fanbase.
Having built a loyal following, Dopamine fans queued outside of the Glasgow venue for hours before doors eagerly waiting for the show. Having sold out Audio Dopamine and their supports mouse. and Joshua Grant had a mad night ahead of them.
I got into the venue (the queue was still crazy even after doors) maybe around halfway through Joshua Grants set. Instantly I was taken with his sound, and I was wishing that I had got in sooner.
In true DIY fashion he read the setlist off the back of a receipt, the list included songs like recent single ‘Gemini’ and ‘I Hate Goodbyes (Face In The Crowd)’ which were not only crowd favourites but I have to say I’ve been listening to them a lot since. Joshua Grants sound is sort of pop-punk/singer-songwriter, I get the vibe of sad guy with a guitar but then there’s an undeniable vibrant energy to his songs.
Even missing a bassist, who if I heard correctly was busy seeing Toto that night, the band didn’t miss a beat. The authentic spirit of their music was enthusiastically welcomed by the already full room. Much like every other artist that night these guys belonged on that stage, whether playing their music or making jokes, like the 360-camera which Grant begged no one to film him wearing (someone definitely did). The overall light-hearted vibe was set for the night.
Then charging in with an energized cover of Limp Bizkits ‘Break Stuff’ all eyes were on the stage for mouse. I could tell quite a few people in the crowd already knew these guys and were ready to party.
The alt rock lads have an infectious energy with edge, their music’s kind of trashy but I mean that in the best way because it’s so good. They’ve definitely nailed the catchy chorus as most of their songs had the crowd singing or at least dancing along. There’s almost a pop punk personality with this band which is fed by their imperfectly perfect sound. My main take away from these guys was how fun they were and how much I would love to see them again.
The busy room stood anticipating the arrival of the band they had come to see. Motorhead track ‘WWE: The Game’ pounded off the walls as the group made their way on stage, yet instead of an explosion taking place there was a moment of silence and giggles when the entrance track ended, this was only the start of the wholesome, energetic and entertaining headline show.
From Dundee this was the band’s first time headlining in Glasgow and the group who are described as adrenaline-filled experimental alt fully live up to that description and more. There’s so many different things to pick out from that night that were hilarious or beautiful. Leading the band Levi Black made the stage their own and I haven’t seen someone with that much stage presence in a while.
Some of my favourite moments from the stand-out show include their cover of Yungbluds ‘King Charles’ which suited their alt rock style so much. The story Black told of a guy asking someone in the toilet if they’d seen the band before not realising, they were talking to one of the band members which had the room in hysterics. A couple of the Dopamine members having a bet on which of them could keep a balaclava on the longest in the boiling heat, I didn’t catch who won. Or even calmer moments where Black took time to sit down with the crowd. Sound wise I’ve been a fan of Dopamine for a while but to fully experience the chaotic antics of the five-piece you must see them live.
The show at Audio is one I don’t think I will forget. There was such a positive energy in the room coming from fans and bands alike. I don’t think I’ve laughed that much at a gig in years. I attended this one by myself, but I have never felt more welcome in a crowded room, and that says a lot about what Dopamine is building with their music and presence. I’m sure all the bands from that night will continue to capture the ears and the hearts of the Scottish music scene.