From singing out his flat window to singing to a crowd of a thousand adoring fans at SWG3 on a Saturday night was Calum Bowie, celebrating the release of his debut EP on his headline tour. With the EP being released the day of the Glasgow gig, it showcased his new music and was received with a symphony of support. Known for his unique take on pop music with his acoustic guitar and mesmerising vocals, his live set did not disappoint.
Coming onto the stage at 7.30pm was the brilliant Odhran Murphy, an Irish musician who matches the vibes of Calum Bowie perfectly, setting the scene for the night that was about to come from the crowd. With just himself and his acoustic guitar on the stage, his music captured the audience, especially when paired with his powerful and emotive voice that filled the room. Sharing how he grew up singing in pubs led to his cover of ‘Wild Mountain Thyme’ that he later transitioned into ‘Viva la Vida’ that instantly had the crowd singing and dancing along, the energy in the room was vibrant and full of excitement.
Not long after, the moment the whole crowd was waiting for had come as Calum Bowie stepped onto the stage at 8.30pm. Immediately playing one of my personal favourites, ‘We Are The River’, the song feels like a pure burst of energy and joy live. The crowd burst into a ‘No Scotland, no party’ chant as soon as the song ended. The welcome Bowie received on stage at that moment showed exactly the perfect reception that he would be getting for the rest of the show.
Calum Bowie clearly cares about the fan experience at his gigs, constantly involving them in the music and making the show unforgettable for everyone there, including him. After letting the crowd choose which song they wanted to hear by having them cheer loudly, they choose ‘Running Boy’ over ‘Home’ but despite that, it’s safe to say that Calum Bowie’s home is definitely on the stage.
There is something that feels extremely raw and honest about Calum Bowie’s music even with the upbeat nature of it, everything he does he pours passion into it. With his band behind him, he still remains upfront with his acoustic guitar and his talent. They bring all the elements from the recorded songs and amplify them live, but still creating that unique experience as the band would often stop playing for a moment, allowing for Bowie and his fans to share a moment, before coming right back in full force.
The gig was full of building memories, for Calum in the way it was his biggest headline gig yet, and for the crowd who got to be a part of that. From bringing out his support act, Odhran Murphy, to sing ‘Take Me Home’ with him, to taking a fan’s Scottish flag and wearing it round his shoulders for the next few songs. One of the highlights of the night was during ‘Dream Of My Own’ when he brought out someone playing the bagpipes, it was a home gig and a big milestone for him and he showcased that through the immense efforts he put in to make it unforgettable.
His vocals are incredible, and that’s easy to recognise, but it’s highlighted in his more emotional songs which he sings wholeheartedly, putting his full effort into the performance, like during ‘Are You Coming Around Anymore?’ Even though these songs were definitely a highlight of the night, it’s hard not to favour the songs like ‘Dancing In The Sun’ and ‘Love Lost’ where the whole room was dancing from front to back, everyone’s hands in the air either clapping or waving along. Even making the popular song by Chappell Roan, ‘Good Luck Babe!’ his own by putting his own acoustic spin on it.
There’s nothing a Scottish crowd loves more than to support a Scottish artist and help them succeed. The show of support from the crowd was one I have never seen at that level before, the crowd from the barricade to the bar was singing and dancing along the whole gig. Calum Bowie’s success from his flat window to big crowds is deserved, he’s amassing his inevitable recognition widely now and there is no stopping him as his live performances will only continue to get better. Calum Bowie is one of Scotland’s best up-and-coming artists, and he’s already cemented himself in the Scottish music scene with his buckets of talent and passion for what he creates.