Amidst what is a very confusing world right now, at least there’s always good music. Last week Frank Turner graced the Glasgow land with his presence for a wicked show, supported by the fairly astounding Guise. Guise are a self-labelled “confessional-folk-pop” outfit who have been gaining traction across the musical plains. Frank is now a household name in any music fans pot of golden tunes. He has released eight solo albums, with his latest ‘No Man’s Land’ which celebrated the life and stories of historical women. He paired this album with a podcast in which he discusses the legacy of these women. His music is enriched by the deepest of sentiment that you’ll be bubbling over like a wee teapot with deep meaning.
Guise kicked off the night with their eloquently subtle tones that trickle in on a breeze of heartfelt wonder. Soft and endearing, the vocals charm you from your very head to your toes. Everything about them, it understated yet sweet as hell. Pulsing acoustic guitar strums controlled the tone of the tune, meandering between something with slow Sunday coffee potential to tracks that charge you with emotional vigour. The perfect beginning to a gig that should never end.
Next up was the master of raspy goodness himself, Frank Turner, the much-awaited headliner. His artistry is evident in every single beat, every note that floats past my lugs, is a reassuring reminder of the musical privilege it is to be here. He has a knack for making you feel like you’re somewhere in the rolling hills of the Dartmoor Forest, under a sunset so crisp, you lose sight of all time and space. His tracks are simplistic and minimalist but striking. Bringing life back the folk tunes of old and sustaining their memory in his own writing, is what makes Frank a uniquely charming artist.
You can hear more from Guise and Frank at the links below.