An electric buzz surrounded the O2 Academy despite the dreary weather, yet the crowd remained undeterred as they lined up to get inside. On everyone’s lips was the same excited message: Babyshambles had arrived in Glasgow for the first of two nights at the venue.
Pete Docherty introduced the first support of the evening, Emma Gillespie, praising her as having an angelic voice. Accompanied by Mick Whitnall on acoustic guitar, she delivered a brief yet powerful set that left a lasting impression on the audience. Better known as Emma’s Imagination, she’s definitely an artist worth exploring on your own.
Next up was London’s Warmduscher, introduced by Pete Docherty as “one of the best bands you will ever see.” Brimming with energy, they instantly won over the Glasgow crowd. Their set – laced with alt-punk flair and a touch of Ian Jury – completely gripped the audience. Passionate and unforgettable, they made a stellar support act. If they’re playing near you, don’t miss them – they’ll blow you away.
During the changeover, a small desk and chair were set up on stage, and Pete joined a little girl for a friendly game of cards and domino-balancing. This sweet interlude revealed a softer side of the singer and was truly a delight to watch. Before they left the stage, Pete asked the girl to wave to the crowd – and the Glasgow audience erupted in applause. Next up: Babyshambles, back in Glasgow for the first of two nights in the city.
Tonight’s extra-night show kicked off with a massive welcome as the band hit the stage. Pete introduced each song by likening it to a different city, and when Killamangiro exploded into the room it felt like a bomb going off. The band was firing on all cylinders, and Pete’s vocals were spot-on. It was the perfect way to honour Down in Albion before charging straight into the high-energy Delivery. By then, the venue had turned into one big party, everyone singing and dancing along with Smith and the band.
Glasgow got an unforgettable take on the Stone Roses’ “Waterfall” that had the crowd cheering from the first chord. Early standouts like “Back from the Dead” and the rousing “Carry on Up the Morning” had everyone bouncing and singing along with unbridled enthusiasm. Overall, it felt like a jubilant salute to Babyshambles’ catalogue, elevating Pete Doherty’s songwriting to new heights.
The band slipped in a few covers – The Beatles’ “Day Tripper” and The Stone Roses’ “Wanna Be Adored” – sending the Glasgow crowd into full-throated sing-alongs. They wrapped up the main set with “The 32nd of December,” then ended on “Albion,” during which Pete asked a Scots fan to lift his sister-in-law onto his shoulders. The band left the stage to rapturous applause.
After a brief intermission, the band returned to the stage to roaring applause from the Glasgow crowd. They kicked off the encore with “Dandy Hooligan,” then treated fans to “Flower of Scotland.” The set wrapped up with “Pipedown” and “Fuck Forever,” featuring a snippet of The Jesus and Mary Chain’s “April Skies,” before the band stepped forward to take a bow.
The band delivered an outstanding performance and fully deserves the praise it has received. If you get the chance to see them live, you won’t be disappointed.
Review & Photographs by James Edmond Photography
