As fans gather outside the iconic venue, memories drift back to years gone by, when legends like Big Country graced this stage, fronted by Stuart Adamson – renowned Skids guitarist and vocalist. Tonight, we honour the legacy of the Skids and their final album with Stuart, The Absolute Game. This classic record will be performed in its entirety on the hallowed stage. Before that, we are treated to a stellar set from Au Pair, a band forged in the punk era, whose journey through breakups and reunions has only strengthened their sound. Returning in 2025 and more vibrant than ever, Au Pair sets the tone for an unforgettable night of music.
As the venue fills up, it’s time for Au Pairs to take the stage. The band, led by original member Lesley Woods on vocals – striking in a red top and leather trousers – immediately looks the part. They open with “Come Again”, instantly commanding the crowd’s attention with their raw, in-your-face punk rock energy. The band’s stage presence is magnetic, with guitarist Alex Ward and bassist Estella Adeyeri fully immersed in the music, dancing along to each song and drawing the audience further into the performance.
You could feel the band’s passion for the music radiating through the crowd. Highlights of their set included standout performances of “Love Song”, “Diet”, and “In The Wrong Body”. The band clearly enjoyed themselves on stage, delivering a dynamic 45-minute set that covered a wide range of songs. The crowd seemed especially familiar with the energetic “It’s Obvious” before the band closed their set in style with a powerful rendition of “You”.
Received an enthusiastic reception from the Barrowland audience that resonated throughout the venue.
Before long, it was almost time to welcome The Skids back to the stage.
As the lights dimmed and the intro began, the band took the stage to growing anticipation, but it was Richard Jobson’s entrance that ignited the loudest cheer of the night. As they launched into the anniversary of The Absolute Game tour, the set opened with an outstanding rendition of “Happy To Be With You”. Jobson was immediately in his element, dancing enthusiastically across the stage, his passion pouring out with every movement. His enjoyment was unmistakable, mirrored by a crowd that sang and danced along in unison. Without pause, the band powered straight into “Out Of Town”, keeping the energy at a fever pitch.
Just before the third song, Richard paused for a moment to reflect on the album we were all gathered to celebrate and to honour the late Stuart Adamson, whose guitar rests quietly at the back of the stage. Richard shared that the band was about to perform the final song he and Stuart wrote together before introducing the brilliant “Circus Games”.
The crowd roared in unison, practically lifting the roof off the old venue. The band was electric, with Connor Whyte’s searing guitar, Peter Byrchmore’s driving bass, and Nick Hernandez’s dynamic drumming coming together to create their signature sound.
Earlier today, The Skids performed a special concert at the Big House (Barlinnie Prison) for the inmates. They dedicated the following song, “One Decree”, to the wardens, staff, and prisoners.
An early highlight of the evening was Kirsten Adamson joining the band on stage. As Jobson mentioned, “A Woman in Winter” was a song he and her father had cherished performing together, making this moment particularly poignant. Kirsten commanded the stage with confidence – so much so that, as Richard remarked, it was simply another Adamson taking over. She was warmly received by the Barrowland crowd, and it was heartening to witness her presence with the band once again. The last time I recall seeing her on that stage, alongside her brother, was at the memorial concert for her father at this very venue.
The moment had arrived for the greatest hits to begin, and whether the Barrowland was ready, we were about to find out as the band closed the album with Goodbye Civilian and Arena. What an honour it was to experience the entire album live for the very first time.
It was time for the heavyweights, kicking off with the electrifying “The Saints Are Coming”, swiftly followed by the outstanding “Masquerade”, as the Barrowland erupted with fans singing and dancing in unison. Pure joy was evident on the faces of the band. Then, the iconic guitar riff of “Into The Valley” reverberated through the venue, prompting the crowd to belt out every word before the B-side classic “TV Stars” – also known as “Albert Tatlock” – ignited another wave of wild enthusiasm.
The moment had arrived to welcome Kirsten Adamson back to the stage for a stunning rendition of the Skids classic, The Olympian – a true wow moment. The song itself is a masterpiece, but witnessing Kirsten perform it on her father’s guitar elevated the experience into an unforgettable highlight of the night. Once again, she received an enthusiastic ovation as she exited, and the band closed the set with Charles before regrouping with her backstage for a brief interlude.
The band returned to a hero’s welcome and delivered electrifying performances of the final two songs, Of One Skin and the triumphant The Devils Decade, before taking their final bow to a thunderous roar from the Barrowland audience.
Tonight’s show was a heartfelt celebration of the album, as well as a tribute to Stuart Adamson. Having his daughter Kirsten take the stage not just once, but twice, created a truly special moment for both the band and the dedicated fans who have supported them for so many years.
If you get the chance to see The Skids, don’t miss it – this isn’t just a band going through the motions; it’s a group bursting with energy, making these songs feel vital and alive in 2026.
Review & Photographs by James Edmond Photography
