As an expat, I’ve been slowly building my repertoire of UK acts over the last four years. What a stroke of luck to be able to add the wonderfully talented Blue Violet to that roster after last night’s show at St. Luke’s in Glasgow. Sarah and Sam brought a compelling energy to their set, full of tight harmonies and strong storytelling that made me feel like I’d known these songs for years.
Highlights of the night included a first listen to “Towers” which will appear on Blue Violet’s next LP, and my personal favourite “Halo”, a slice of indie pop paired with a powerful vocal performance giving real Florence vibes. The pair kept the crowd invested in the music performing a touching tribute to Sarah’s father who’d been a big supporter of their musical career. As the openers, the set was short but intense. Blue Violet set an energetic atmosphere amongst the crowd, and I can’t wait to hear and discover more from them in the future.
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I came across Ryan McMullan unexpectedly a couple of years ago, hearing a tune that captured me from the first listen. It was a random track smushed somewhere in the middle of a Spotify playlist that became a song I promptly added to my favourites. Last Wednesday night in Glasgow at St. Luke’s was my first chance to see him live! While I’m sure he’s played to bigger crowds in more sprawling halls, seeing him on this cold night in this cozy venue full of charm was a gift to start the holiday season.
In a nod to the season, we were treated to an unexpected opener, a fab little cover of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”, which got the energy up and audience cheering immediately. If you want a safe musical place to feel and release your heartbreak, this Northern Irish singer-songwriter’s catalogue is the perfect place to look. “Another Minute with You” had people singing along right from the first bar and something tells me I wasn’t the only one in the room with tears building during “Letting Go For a Little While”.
McMullan shows his skill and versatility moving easily from guitar to piano and leading us to the song I was anticipating the most: “Bowie on the Radio”. I wasn’t the only one loving it and singing right along. Keeping up the craic, another crowd favourite was “Belfast City”, a heartfelt hometown tribute. McMullan shared his thanks and appreciation with fans for their patience waiting for the better part of a decade for his first album to be released. Their loyalty was richly rewarded with this show and the declaration that “the second album is ready”. Can’t wait to hear those shows announced.
We ended the night much as we began, with a Christmas tune, Ryan and his guitar leading with his strong, clear voice. Can you ever go wrong with a cover of “Fairytale of New York”? I don’t think so. Ryan, when you’re needing a backup singer, I’m ready.
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Blue Violet: official | facebook | twitter | instagram | spotify | youtube
Ryan McMullan: official | facebook | twitter | instagram | spotify | youtube
