Tonight was supposed to be the album launch for Gun’s latest album, Hombres. However, it turned into a celebration as the album reached the top 10 in the UK album charts, as well as achieving other impressive stats, such as being the No. 1 album in Scotland and Spain. At Saint Luke’s today, fans turned out in large numbers for two shows, one at 6 p.m. and another at 9 p.m. The line stretched all the way from outside the venue to the Gallowgate, with fans eager to secure the best spot to see their favourite band. The band was introduced on stage by Jim Gellatly, highlighting the impressive achievements of the album.
An electrifying atmosphere filled the venue as you walked in, setting the stage for a memorable night. Fans were buzzing, chatting excitedly as classic rock songs played in the background. The balcony level and standing area were quickly filling up as people armed themselves with drinks from the bar in anticipation of celebrating the new album together.
As the lights dimmed and the band’s intro, “Let the Day Begin,” by The Call filled the venue, the excitement in the crowd reached a peak as Giullano Gizzi, Paul McManus, Andy Carr, and Ruaraidh Macfarlane took the stage. The energy was electrifying as they began playing “Lucky Guy,” and Dante Gizzi joined them, raising the noise level even higher. The crowd enthusiastically sang along to the new song, “Here’s Where I Am,” as if they were already familiar hits. The band then transitioned seamlessly into one of their classics, “Don’t Say It’s Over,” fitting perfectly with the new material. The wait for this album was definitely worthwhile.
The band burst into a single from their album, All Fired Up, causing the venue to come alive with excitement. Dante and Joolz’s faces showed pure enjoyment as fans sang along enthusiastically. The talented local band was rocking the intimate venue near Barrowland. They then introduced “Better Days,” their first single, which ignited the crowd and elevated the party atmosphere to new heights.
Returning to songs from the new album, the outstanding “You Are What I Need” and “Boy’s Don’t Cry” had the audience dancing and singing along to Jools’ amazing guitar solos. Following was the standout track from the album, “Falling,” which was written during the lockdown period of COVID-19. This song captivated the crowd with its epic chorus, drawing them in from the very beginning. There is an undeniable power and catchiness to this song that resonates deeply with the listeners.
As the set neared its conclusion, it was time for some powerful songs, although they were not necessary. As with Hombres, it felt like reliving Talking on the World all over again, with each song being top-notch and hard to let go of. Last December, during a show at the renowned Barrowland Ballroom, the audience raised the roof with their enthusiastic Yeah Yeah’s, and tonight was no different as they sang loudly and proudly to Take Me Back Home.
Paul stepped up to the microphone at the front of the stage to express his gratitude for the support shown by everyone. He also took a moment to thank his good friend Joe Lazarus from Twin Atlantic, who had filled in on drums while Paul was recovering. Joe had travelled from London to join in the celebration of the new album, Hombres. Paul graciously gave up his spot to let Joe showcase his skills on the drums during his favourite Gun song, “Steal My Fire.” The joy on Joe’s face was evident as he played alongside Glasgow’s beloved sons.
As Joe exited the stage, the crowd erupted into a thunderous ovation. Paul then took the spotlight for the final song, “Shame on You,” which brought the house down. The band’s performance was electric from start to finish, clearly revelling in every moment. As they bid farewell to Glasgow, the audience demanded an encore. After a brief wait, the band reappeared on stage to a rapturous reception.
The encore started with the fantastic performance of “Word Up,” which had the audience waving their hands in the air and singing along. The show concluded with “Inside Out,” from the album Taking on the Word. After the song, the band took a moment to bid farewell and announced their next show at the Barrowland in December. Paul even gave out his used drumsticks to some lucky fans.
Tonight, Gun delivered a performance that transported us back to the excitement and emotion of their early days. It was just the beginning of a journey that we never want to end. Don’t miss their upcoming tours in Spain in May and the UK in December. And if you haven’t already, make sure to pick up their album Hombres – a must-have for any music collection.
Reviewed By Karen Edmond
