She’s been one of the most hotly anticipated artists to return to Scotland, and Maggie Lindemann fans turned out in force, queuing for hours outside The Garage Glasgow earlier this week for a chance to get right up against the barrier. From the moment doors opened, it was clear this wasn’t just another gig – it was a full celebration of live music, community, and the thrill of discovering rising talent. With support from Runaway Club and AFTERDRIVE, the night had all the makings of something special before the headliner had even stepped on stage.
Early on, Sauchiehall Street was absolutely packed, with fans snaking down the road in anticipation. Kicking things off were Runaway Club, a four-piece I’ve had my eye on for a while now. Their recent track 6 Weeks has been on repeat since it dropped, and hearing it live in Glasgow completely lived up to expectations. Their set felt polished while still holding onto that raw edge that makes live music so exciting – and judging by the crowd’s reaction, I wasn’t the only one impressed. If you get the chance to catch them on their UK tour later this year, it’s well worth grabbing a ticket early – this is a band on the rise.
Next up was AFTERDRIVE, and this is where the night kicked into another gear. I’ve been following them for a while, and there’s nothing quite like watching a band you’ve supported start to have their moment – and that’s exactly what happened here. From the second they stepped on stage, the energy shifted. Tracks like Fashion and Valet only built momentum, each delivered with confidence, charisma, and a genuine love for performing that filled the entire venue.
What makes AFTERDRIVE stand out isn’t just their sound – it’s their presence. They don’t just play songs; they create something bigger. The kind of set that makes you feel like you’re witnessing a band right before they blow up. Their chemistry on stage is undeniable, every member bringing something distinct while still feeling completely in sync. The crowd fed off that energy, and in return, the band gave everything back tenfold. It’s rare to see a support act command a room like that, but AFTERDRIVE did it effortlessly. If there’s any justice, it won’t be long before they’re headlining venues like this themselves.
By the time Maggie Lindemann took to the stage, the atmosphere had reached fever pitch. She’s built a fiercely loyal following over the years – fans who’ve stayed with her through every era, from PARANOIA to SUCKERPUNCH and into her latest chapter with i feel everything. That connection was obvious the second she appeared, launching straight into fang with a confidence that immediately commanded the room.
Determined to give fans everything, she powered through an impressive 26-song setlist in under 90 minutes – no small feat by any standard. The setlist spanned every era of her career, highlighting just how much she’s grown, both sonically and as a performer.
What stood out most throughout the night, though, was the crowd. Every lyric – from the earliest releases to the newest tracks – was shouted back with unwavering passion. It created an electric back-and-forth that elevated the entire show. You could feel just how much these songs mean to people, and Maggie clearly felt it too, taking moments between tracks to soak it all in and connect with the audience on a genuine level.
By the end of the night, it was clear this wasn’t just a gig – it was a reminder of why live music matters. From the buzz of the queue outside to the final notes ringing out inside the venue, every part of the evening delivered. Runaway Club proved they’re ones to watch, AFTERDRIVE won over a whole new wave of fans, and Maggie Lindemann cemented exactly why she’s earned such a devoted following.
If this show was anything to go by, Scotland will be more than ready to welcome her back again – and next time, she might need something much bigger than this.
Review by Lauren Page
Photographs by Lynsey Wyllie
