As you approach the iconic neon lights of the Barrowland, the impressive size of the queue outside reveals the anticipation for the first of two homecoming nights for The Twilight Sad. The band is currently touring their latest album, It’s The Long Goodbye, an outstanding release, and there’s real excitement to finally hear some of its tracks performed live. Two excellent support acts are on the bill: Dundee’s brilliant Theo Bleak and the talented London group Deary.
As the doors opened and fans streamed in, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation – devotees of all ages eager to witness the Kilsyth band step onto the legendary stage that we Glasgow music lovers fondly call home.
As the lights dimmed, anticipation filled the air as the wonderful Theo Bleak was welcomed to the stage. Katie Lynch began the set with her captivating vocals, opening with the beautiful song “NJ Transit”, which immediately drew in the Glasgow audience. Her stunning voice and the visible passion behind every note made a striking impression, earning her enthusiastic applause. Taking a moment between songs, she expressed her disbelief at performing in such a renowned venue – let alone sharing the bill with one of her favourite bands. Katie shared that when the opportunity arose, she simply couldn’t turn it down.
Some of the highlights of her set included the enchanting “Said Like a Poet”, the evocative “Megan In New York”, and the hauntingly beautiful “Kilmeny”. Her music captivates with its atmospheric soundscapes and her stunning vocals. She closed the show with the irresistibly catchy “Peach Sky”, departing to an enthusiastic reception from the Barrowland audience.
Next up was main support, Deary from London, who took to the stage and created a real buzz – it was great to see them play at the Barrowland. Fronted by Dottie Cockram, a commanding figure on stage, her presence immediately caught the eye as she soaked up the venue’s unique atmosphere.
The band kicked off their set with the brilliant “Seabird”, whose mesmerising build-up created an immersive atmosphere before the full band surged in. Dottie’s vocals were stunning, complemented by her dynamic stage presence. Deary’s music effortlessly sparks the imagination, drawing listeners into a captivating journey. Dottie shared with the audience that this was only the band’s second time in Glasgow, expressing her delight to return after previously performing at the wonderful venue, The Hug and Pint.
Among the highlights were the outstanding tracks “The Drift” and “Smile”, both of which stood out for their powerful delivery and resonant energy. This is a band truly worth seeing live, as their music has an undeniable pull that instantly captivates the audience. They closed their set with “Fairground”, a song that clearly won over the Glasgow crowd, who were swept up by the performance and the impressive vocals and guitar work of Dottie Cockram. The band received an enthusiastic reception from the Glasgow audience as they left the stage.
As the moment approached to welcome The Twilight Sad to the stage for the first of their two sold-out nights at the legendary Barrowland Ballroom, anticipation filled the air. The band – James Graham, Andy MacFarlane, Simone Butler, and Cat Myers – stood poised to face the iconic Barrowland audience. Only time would reveal what the night had in store.
As the lights dimmed and the band’s intro music pulsed through the PA system, an electric anticipation filled the air, intensifying the atmosphere within the venue. The band took their positions, and James was the last to step onto the stage, pausing for a moment to take in the audience before nodding in acknowledgement. He let the music wash over him, visibly surrendering to its power as he allowed it to move through him, fully embracing the energy of the moment.
This was destined to be a special night, as it marked the first time most fans would hear the new songs performed live. On vinyl, they sounded electrifying – but anticipation filled the air to see how they would translate to the stage. As the opening notes of the first song began, it was instantly clear it was the new track “Dead Flowers”. Its extended intro filled the Barrowland venue, making the song feel monumental. When James’s vocals finally soared in, the crowd was instantly swept away. The album version, featuring The Cure’s Robert Smith, was already a standout, but tonight’s live rendition elevated it even further. What an unforgettable way to kick off the show – pure perfection. The band powered on with tracks from It’s The Long Goodbye, including “Designed To Lose”, “Attempt A Crash Landing”, and the outstanding “Waiting For A Phone Call”. Between songs, James addressed the crowd, admitting with a grin, “I hadn’t prepared anything to say, but it’s so good to be back here in Glasgow – and back in this venue.”
The band revisited some of their classic songs, such as “Last January”, which had the audience singing along at full volume. It was equally thrilling to hear “Videograms”, with the crowd once again joining in enthusiastically. James proved his prowess as a frontman, connecting with the audience at the edge of the stage and expressing his undeniable passion for the music and the performance.
Some of the main highlights of the set were undoubtedly the new songs, which radiated passion and brought a deeply personal touch for both James and Andy. Standout tracks included “Inhospitable / Hospital”, “Chest Wound to the Chest”, and the brilliant “Back To Fourteen” – all of which were phenomenal live and held their own alongside the band’s classic hits.
The show featured no encore, just a set brimming with emotion, passion, and brilliant live music. The band closed their performance with “Cold Days From the Birdhouse” from their Fourteen Autumns & Fifteen Winters album, followed by “And She Would Darken the Memory” from the same record. As the crowd soaked in the atmosphere, they sang their hearts out alongside the band.
The band closed their set with a standout track from the new album, and what a way to end the night – with the electrifying “TV People Still Throwing TVs at People”. It was clear they relished every moment on stage, pouring raw passion and emotion into the performance. James, overcome by the music, dropped to his knees, giving everything he had to what can only be described as one of the concerts of the year. Passion, emotion, and songs that speak directly to the heart – simply incredible. Don’t miss the chance to catch this band in intimate venues, as they’re destined for much bigger stages soon. Consider this your warning: remember the name, The Twilight Sad.
Review & Photographs by James Edmond Photography
