As the Barrowland lights illuminate the night sky, a crowd of Stiff Little Fingers fans makes its way along Gallowgate for their annual St. Patrick’s Day concert. This sold-out event draws attendees from far and wide. Since 1986, the band has performed at this venue on March 17th, achieving an impressive streak of 29 consecutive shows, interrupted only by the cancellation due to COVID in 2022. Each St. Patrick’s Day performance is unique, complete with a specially designed t-shirt for the occasion. Over the years, the audience has spanned a wide age range, with entire families coming together to enjoy the music of Stiff Little Fingers.
Tonight is just like any other, with fans lining up outside the venue eager to get in. The opening act is none other than Ricky Warwick and his band, The Fighting Hearts, who are here to promote their latest album, Blood Ties, which is available now.
As Ricky and the band stepped onto the stage, they were greeted with a hero’s welcome from the Barrowland audience. The venue was packed as they kicked off the night with “Angels of Desolation,” providing a sneak peek into their new album while showcasing their music. Ricky was in top form, performing both new and classic songs, including the Black Star Riders hit “Another State of Grace,” which had the Barrowland rocking and singing along.
Ricky extends his warm wishes for a Happy St. Patrick’s Day to the venue and shares his personal story. He was born in Northern Ireland and relocated to Scotland at the age of 14, settling just outside Glasgow in Strathaven. He mentions that he has an Irish father and a Scottish mother.
The set featured standout tracks such as “Crocodile Tears,” “Rise and Grind,” and a return to the classic “The Arms of Belfast Town,” which had the audience singing along while enjoying a dynamic performance by Ricky and his band, including Richard Vernon, Ben Christo, and Jack Taylor. This impressive lineup truly rocked the Barrowland. If you have the opportunity to see Ricky live, don’t miss it—you’re in for an unforgettable evening. Be sure to check out his latest album, “Blood Ties.
As the main event approached, the excitement in the venue intensified. Attendees were reconnecting with old friends while eagerly anticipating the band’s performance. This year’s music selection was a bit of a mystery, especially after Steve Grantley was held responsible for last year’s ABBA setlist. Tonight, however, the theme tunes from James Bond take center stage, suggesting the band is enjoying a little playful twist.
As the lights dimmed and the intro music of “Go For It” began to play, the atmosphere became charged with excitement, with stage lights flashing in sync with the rhythm. When the audience got their first glimpse of the band—Jake Burns, Ian McCallum, Steve Grantley, and Ali McMordie—the noise level surged. They launched straight into their cover of Bunny Wailer’s “Roots, Radics, Rockers, Reggae,” igniting the crowd and setting the tone for an energetic show. The momentum continued to build with “At The Edge” and the outstanding “Wasted Life,” elevating the energy in the venue to new heights.
The band revisited their back catalogue and performed the classic “Won’t Be Told” from the Now Then… album. They also introduced a new song titled “Mary’s Boy Child,” which tells the story of a boy with a Scottish mother named Mary who grows up to become the president of the USA. We believe this song deserves to be released, as it is filled with passion, power, and speaks for the people.
Jake addressed the Barrowland audience, mentioning that they hadn’t played this particular song in quite some time and expressing uncertainty about whether he could still sing it. He introduced “Piccadilly Circus,” which sounded fantastic, just like the previous track, “Straw Dogs.” Both songs energized the fans on the dance floor, making them break a sweat. Jake noted that the next two songs would be perfect for a night like St. Patrick’s Day. He mentioned that Ian was playing an acoustic guitar while sporting an electric one for an acoustic sound. As the music began, they launched into “Each Dollar a Bullet,” which had the entire venue singing along. Following that, Jake shared a story about his time in Boston, where Americans referred to him as “Harp” because of his Irish heritage. This led into the song titled “Harp.
My Dark Places” is a song that Jake recalls writing; I believe he mentioned he was 14 at the time, though I could be mistaken. The song conveys a message about seeking help, emphasizing that no matter your age, there is always someone available to talk to and support you during difficult times.
As the set approached its conclusion, it was time to include the classics that new fans were eager to hear from Stiff Little Fingers. These included “Nobody’s Hero,” “Tin Soldiers,” “Suspect Device,” and “Gotta Gettaway,” before the band wrapped up the performance and exited the stage.
After a brief intermission, they returned to the stage to an overwhelming roar from the crowd. They launched into Stiff Little Fingers’ beloved track “Barbed Wire Love,” a song that has been the soundtrack to countless engagements and weddings. The night could only conclude with the iconic fanzine anthem “Alternative Ulster,” which had the Barrowland resonating with cheers and energy. As the last chord rang out, the band took a bow at the front of the stage, greeted by thunderous applause from the audience. It was truly a night to remember.
If you have the opportunity to see the band perform live, don’t hesitate—it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable night of music. They’re returning to Glasgow in August at the bandstand, but the show with Stiff Little Fingers is already sold out. Keep an eye out for St. Pats no. 30 next year; as Arnie famously said, they will be back!
Review by Karen Edmond
Photographs by James Edmond Photography
