Thursday 16th of September – Teenage Fan Clubs first Glasgow gig since the pandemic. Hailing from Bellshill themselves, playing the iconic Barrowland Ballroom was the appropriate welcome home.
Poster paints were the first to grace the stage, the Glasgow duo were accompanied by musicians to play their third ever show together. Comprised of Carla J Easton and Simon Liddell who are best known for their work in the Vasaleines and Olympic swimmers, it was clear this was not their first rodeo. The night commenced with a dreamy slow number, the vibe mellowed out as the soft keys and dreamy guitar notes washed over the PA.
The ambient low lights accompanied by Easton’s captivating vocals created an intimate atmosphere. Many of their songs driven by a foundation of rich guitar melodies, floating keys and distinct, angelic vocals tones. Poster paints held the attention of the audience, unwavering for the whole set.
Dropping the occasional up-tempo track added dynamics to the set. Drawing the listeners attention back and keeping things fresh with an alternative pace. Treating us to their new single “No 1” which embodied a heavier rock vibe and got the crowd moving which was for sure a favourite of mine!
Make sure to catch them at The Poetry Club on the 7th of October.
A brief change over and topping up for drinks, the lights went down for the one and only Teenage Fanclub to take the stage. Kicking things off with “About You”, the instantly recognised song had everyone in high spirits.
A night of classics and new releases from “Endless Arcade” brought fans, old and new, together for a true musical spectacle. The new album is packed full of driven guitar sections that weave in and out of the strong foundation of bass and drums. Lyrically, the evolution of the Glasgow rockers was clear – discussing times gone by.
Towards the end of the show, as the band exited the stage, the anticipation heightened for the encore. Returning with “The Fall’, the tension released as TFC tore through the final songs on their set. Rounding the night off with an epic, minute long solo and Norman Blake turning the feedback from his amp, into an instrument!
This evoked the other members to have an impromptu outro with keys, drums, bass and guitar all feeding off each other. A testament to the creativity of the musicians! As everyone left the venue, a few lucky fans were handed setlists which will be a token of an amazing night.
