On one of the hottest days of the year, the city sizzled under a balmy 28 to 30 degrees. As fans streamed into the venue, many donned shorts and light shirts, trying to stay cool while the temperature lingered around a warm 24 degrees. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as the support band stepped onto the stage, ready to kick off an unforgettable evening.
The highly acclaimed band from Derry, Northern Ireland, Cherym, took to the stage and received a warm reception from the Glasgow audience. They delivered an energetic mix of post-punk alternative sounds, garnering enthusiastic reactions from the crowd. This weekend, they will be supporting Stiff Little Fingers at their Belfast show—definitely an event worth checking out. Although they faced a few guitar issues during the initial songs, once they hit their stride, it became evident why they are creating such a buzz across the water. As they wrapped up their final number, the singer/guitarist made a bold move, leaping over the barrier to engage directly with the Glasgow fans. It was clear they were relishing every moment of the occasion.
As the stage crew swiftly cleared the area, excitement grew in the air for the moment when Stiff Little Fingers would take the stage. The PA system pumped out a selection of classic punk anthems, igniting the atmosphere with a sense of nostalgia. Out of nowhere, the music transitioned to the unmistakable tunes of ABBA, bringing back vivid memories of Stiff Little Fingers’ exhilarating performance at the Barrowland a few years ago when the same music was played in the build up to the show.
As music changed the vibrant beats of “Go For It” resonated through the air, excitement crackled, signalling the eagerly awaited arrival of the band. Bursting with energy, Steve Grantley, Ali McMordie, Jake Burns, and Ian McCallum took the stage, each carving out their space before diving into the exhilarating opener, “Roots and Radicals.” Immediately, the Glasgow crowd erupted into a joyful dance and sing-along, fully embracing the infectious rhythm. It was clear that this night was destined to be magical at the Glasgow venue, a moment that would remain etched in the memories of all who attended.
Jake greets the audience following a flurry of songs, including “At The Edge” and “Wasted Life.” He engages with the crowd, discussing the extensive roadworks in the city and even mentions Spiderman as it is being filmed in the city. He finds it unusual to be performing in Glasgow during the summer, as he typically plays there in the winter at Barrowland on St. Patrick’s Day.
The band showcased a new song dedicated to President Trump, titled “Mary’s Boy Child,” which garnered enthusiastic applause from the Glasgow audience. They followed up with a nostalgic tune, “Piccadilly Circus,” reminiscing about an old manager’s journey to London during troubled times. This was succeeded by the fantastic “Straw Dogs,” which had the crowd singing along heartily, creating an electric atmosphere.
The next songs flowed seamlessly, allowing everyone to appreciate the musicianship as they performed “Each Dollar a Bullet” and “Harp.” As the set neared its end, Jake encouraged any men in the audience facing struggles to seek support before diving into “My Dark Places.”
The Kelvingrove Bandstand was treated to a stunning rendition of “Tin Soldiers,” featuring an extended intro that infused the song with even more passion and energy than ever. The first set concluded with the beloved classic “Gotta Getaway,” prompting the entire audience to sing at the top of their lungs before the band took a well-deserved break.
After a brief intermission, the band returned with Stiff Little Fingers’ love song “Barbed Wire Love,” which had the crowd singing, swaying, and dancing in unison. The final number needed no introduction; as the iconic opening chords of “Alternative Ulster” rang out, the atmosphere reached a fever pitch, with the band taking a collective bow at the front of the stage as their performance came to a close. It was evident that each member of the band had truly enjoyed the night.
This was not your typical, sweat-soaked St. Patrick’s show at Barrowland; it was a magical evening under the open sky, with an electric atmosphere as fans gathered at the bandstand to celebrate an unforgettable night. As the crowd began to disperse, voices echoed with praise for the remarkable set, and many expressed hopes for the band’s return to the iconic Kelvingrove Bandstand in Glasgow’s vibrant West End.
Indeed, this was a special night—one that would be cherished for years to come.
Photographs by James Edmond Photography
Review by Karen Edmond
