On a chilly, damp night in the city, there’s no better place to be than in the West End, making your way to Glasgow University’s Queen Margaret Union for the eagerly anticipated sold-out performance by the outstanding Swim School from Edinburgh.
A vibrant queue had formed outside the venue, where eager fans awaited their chance to enter. Among them were people of all ages, united in their excitement for the show. The atmosphere buzzed with a genuine sense of community, as families and friends shared in the anticipation, all looking forward to an unforgettable experience.
The support act tonight is the highly acclaimed Dublin rockers, Basht. By the time the band took the stage, the venue was three-quarters full, and the electric atmosphere was palpable. As the five-piece ensemble stepped up, fronted by the charismatic Jack Leavey on vocals, they were met with an enthusiastic response from the Glasgow crowd. With their powerful alternative rock sound, the band truly made an impression. They graciously thanked the Glasgow audience for coming out early to catch their set.
They truly put on an unforgettable show, one that is sure to win them many more fans. The band expressed their excitement at being back in the city and confirmed that they would return soon to perform at King Tut’s. Their stage presence is commanding, and musically, they sound phenomenal. As this was my first time seeing them, their music was somewhat unfamiliar, but they undoubtedly left their mark on me. Their songs are powerful, guitar-driven anthems complemented by stunning vocals. Although their set was brief, they certainly know how to rock the house. Be sure to check out these Dublin lads – keep an eye out for the band Basht. They exited the stage to a fantastic reception tonight.
It was time to welcome Edinburgh’s finest to Glasgow – the electrifying band featuring Alice Johnson, Lewis Bunting, Billy McMahon, and Lee Brown, currently on tour promoting their self-titled debut album. As they stepped onto the stage, a wave of applause erupted, honouring their arrival. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as they launched into their opening number, “Always on My Mind,” a track that filled the venue with the stunning vocals of Alice Johnson, whose powerful performance instantly captivated the audience.
The band was clearly in their element, and Alice captured the moment perfectly as she addressed the Glasgow crowd, exclaiming that this was the show they had all been eagerly anticipating. The joy radiating from the band was palpable, especially during standout tracks like “Kill You,” “Alone with You,” and the electrifying “Crimson Red.” The audience in Glasgow joined in, singing along enthusiastically, creating an exhilarating atmosphere as the band stirred up a whirlwind of excitement throughout the venue.
Alice’s vocals were nothing short of extraordinary, especially during “Am I Good Enough Now?” from their self-titled album. It was a breathtaking moment; you could see the audience captivated by her performance, elevating the song to new heights. Just when we thought the show couldn’t get any better, the band treated the sold-out crowd in Glasgow to the electrifying tracks “Heaven” and “Delirious.” In a spontaneous burst of energy, Alice leapt into the crowd, diving into the mosh pit and uniting with the fans. As she made her way back to the stage, she playfully assured through the microphone, “I’m okay, Mum.” To wrap up the set, they unleashed “On & On,” sending the crowd into a frenzy as a photo of Liam Gallagher was passed to Alice on stage.
Alice addressed the audience, saying, “Typically, we step off stage at this time for a brief intermission, but tonight is different. We’re having such a great time that we’re going to keep the energy going!” As she was handed a St. Andrews cross flag emblazoned with “Swim School,” she gracefully draped it over her shoulders before placing it around the microphone stand. The band then launched into the captivating “Let Me Inside Your Head,” and they closed their set with the electrifying “See Red,” as the stage was bathed in a striking red glow, perfectly matching the mood of the song.
As the final notes of the song echoed through the venue, the band took a gracious bow, met with an electrifying reception from the Glasgow audience. This was a night etched in memory for both the band and the fans, destined to become a cherished tale in local folklore. Were you there when Swim School set the QMU ablaze with their unforgettable performance?
If you have the opportunity to catch the band on this tour, seize the moment and experience an incredible live performance from Edinburgh’s Swim School. Be sure to check them out not only live but also on vinyl, as they are poised to become a household name in no time. A huge shoutout to Alice, Billy, Lewis, and Lee for delivering an unforgettable night that truly rocked the West End of Glasgow!
Review & Photographs by James Edmond Photography
