On the 22nd of April, 2023, music enthusiasts gathered at the historic Barrowland in Glasgow for a night of electrifying live performances. The evening’s line-up consisted of some of the best tribute bands in the UK music scene, each delivering an exceptional and unforgettable show.
The James Experience Born of Frustration, a tribute band that celebrates the music of the Manchester-based band, James, opened the show as the support act for The Clone Roses. The band’s performance was nothing short of amazing, showcasing their passion and love for the band by delivering an authentic and powerful performance. The lead singer’s vocal range was exceptional, captivating the audience with every note. The band treated the audience to a set of James classics, including “Born of Frustration,” “Laid,” which had the crowd singing and dancing along. The encore performance of “Sit Down” was the perfect finale, leaving the crowd in high spirits and wanting more.
The Gerry Cinnamon Experience took to the stage next, and the atmosphere was already buzzing with anticipation following the incredible performance by The James Experience. Cinnamon’s unique blend of indie-folk and lyrical prowess delivered a spellbinding performance that left the audience spellbound. Hits such as “Belter” and “Sometimes” had the crowd singing along, and the grandiose stage and impressive acoustics of the Barrowland Ballroom amplified the experience, making it an unforgettable night.
Oas-is, a tribute band to the iconic Oasis, provided the perfect dose of nostalgia for fans of the Manchester music scene. As soon as the band took to the stage, the audience erupted in cheers and applause, and the energy in the room was palpable. From the opening chords of “Rock ‘n’ Roll Star,” it was evident that the band was on top form, resembling the original group in both sound and appearance. The band’s enthusiastic performance continued with an array of Oasis classics, such as “Wonderwall,” “Live Forever,” and “Champagne Supernova.” The crowd was singing along to every word, creating an electric atmosphere that was reminiscent of the band’s heyday.
The night ended with The Clone Roses taking to the stage, and fans of The Stone Roses were in for a treat as the tribute band delivered a captivating performance. From the opening notes of “I Wanna Be Adored” to the closing strains of “I Am The Resurrection,” The Clone Roses had the crowd in the palm of their hands. Frontman Martin Colclough embodied the swagger and charisma of Ian Brown, delivering each lyric with the same passion and conviction as the original frontman. The band’s performance proved once again why they are one of the best tribute acts around, paying homage to The Stone Roses while adding their own unique twist.
In conclusion, the night of the 22nd April, 2023, at the Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow was truly a night to remember. The energy, passion, and talent on display from each of the tribute bands made it an unforgettable experience. Fans of James, Gerry Cinnamon, Oasis, and The Stone Roses were treated to exceptional performances that celebrated the enduring appeal of the UK music scene. The event was a fitting tribute to some of the most iconic bands of the 90s and demonstrated the importance of live music in bringing people together in a shared appreciation for the power of music.
Review Karen Edmond & Photographs by James Edmond