The Barrowland Ballroom’s schedule always seems to pick up around November time, poignant since the sentimental value within the venue’s walls seem to have warming capabilities, especially after a freezing walk from the city centre to the Gallowgate.
On first tonight are two piece Slaves, with a striking set up to say the least, a guitarist and a lead vocalist who is standing up while playing only two drums.
The guitarist wears a BABY STRANGE T-shirt in what is a nice ode to one of Glasgow’s rising bands, while the lead singer/drummer dons a much more flamboyant shirt.
The duo oozes confidence and are clearly enjoying playing together, the highlight being ‘Where’s Your Car Debbie?’, which is supposedly about being afraid of Bigfoot.
For the second time in 24 hours, Jamie T walks on to the Barrowland stage and starts off strongly with material from new album Carry On The Grudge.
After a five year break, it doesn’t seem as if the London singer has been away as new songs, such as ‘Peter’ and ‘The Prophet’, fit so well into the se, and most of the sold-out crowd already being familiar with them and sing-along.
New single ‘Rabbit Hole’ and an awesome version of ‘Emily’s Heart’ also deserve special mentions, however, it is tonight’s encores that make this gig one of the most memorable in a while.
A perfect trio of ‘Sheila’, ‘Zombie’ and ‘Sticks’n’Stones’ complete the night and the Barras floor bounces with excitement and joy, while the crowd shout back every word to him.
The fact that these three (all from different albums) have become his biggest singles is testament to his songwriting, which although always changes in style, is genuine and characteristically Jamie T.
Words: Neil Hayton
Photos: Stewart Fullerton
