Here at SMN, we’re not shy about moaning over Glasgow’s famously fickle (bad) weather, but on this particular evening, even we were stopped in our tracks by the rare sight of sunlight washing the city in golden warmth… a glorious start to the evening.
Kathryn Joseph is one of Scotland’s most respected and enigmatic musicians and tonight she returned to the stage in support of her latest album, ‘We Were Made Prey’.
The venue, with its high ceilings and typical church acoustics, was the perfect setting for what unfolded—an evening steeped in raw emotion and atmospheric intensity.
The night opened with a slow-burning set from Afterlands, a four-piece whose soulful, folk-tinged songs made a quiet but lasting impression. Their storytelling style resonated with the growing crowd and Kathryn herself could be seen watching from the audience, visibly supportive of her longtime friends.
The band were met with a deserved ovation at the end of their set and are sure to have attracted some new fans.
Rumour has it that Afterlands have released an album but they didn’t mention it… much!
As the stage was reset, all unnecessary clutter was stripped away, leaving just a synthesiser stack stage right and an electric piano stage left. This stark setup reflected the sonic world we were about to enter.
While Kathryn is known for her intimate solo performances, tonight she shared the stage with Lomond Campbell, who handled synth duties. Positioned as far apart as the compact stage would allow, the two were a study in contrast—yet entirely in sync. Their musical chemistry was undeniable, weaving dark, brooding textures that bordered on the angry, yet always remained beautiful.
The set was a masterclass in atmosphere. The lighting was deliberately dim, casting long shadows that amplified the weight of each song. Tracks from ‘We Were Made Prey’ unfolded like confessions, unflinching and raw, and the audience—large and palpably moved—responded with rapturous applause.
As the final notes faded and fans poured out into the evening, the sun tried its hardest to poke through the fast approaching dusk to cast a final golden hue over the city. It felt like a quiet blessing on a night where darkness was transformed into something utterly compelling.
A spellbinding performance in one of Glasgow’s finest venues. Kathryn Joseph continues to prove why she remains one of Scotland’s most vital voices.
Review & Photographs by John Brown Photography
