Glasgow was set to welcome the incredible Jack Antonoff and his band as part of the Bleachers tour. Antonoff, a Grammy-winning producer who has collaborated with Taylor Swift, The 1975, and Lana Del Rey, was coming to the city for his From the Studio to the Stage tour. He’d be playing songs from his latest self-titled album.
The Glasgow-born singer Kaeto, who now lives in London, performed in a venue that was three-quarters full. Her band performed a blend of dark trip hop with a pop edge, completely grabbing the moment with their music. Kaeto’s extravagant dance antics onstage engaged the crowd into her music. Her powerful voice and passionate lyrics enthralled the Glasgow audience. The highlight tunes were No Body and the amazing Don’t Ask. Despite her quick presentation, Kaeto left a lasting effect on the Glasgow audience.
It was time for the Bleachers to take the stage. The tour name was clearly placed on the backdrop, as were giant letters spelling out “Bleachers.” The stage was mostly decked out in white, including the equipment, with a checkered floor, ready for the band’s entrance. The multi-level stage hinted at the amount of musicians in the band who will be entertaining the Glasgow throng. As the lights dimed, the band members made their way onto the stage and began performing the opening song, “I am Right on Time.” Jack Antonoff proceeded to the front, pulling a rope to reveal an illuminated sign reading “Recording Studio in Use.” The stage illumination was low, allowing just brief glances of the band during the first song, while Jack continuously gazed at the Studio in Use sign above the stage. The show began energetically, and the crowd-pleasing “Modern Girl” followed, kicking off a fantastic performance that had the audience singing and dancing along. The mood was filled with joy and excitement.
Jack invited his father to sing “How Dare You Want More” onstage. It was an important moment for Ricky Antonoff to share the stage with his son. The performance expertly combined classical and contemporary aspects. The event featured memorable performances of Tom Waits’ “Jersey Girl” and The Waterboys’ “The Whole of the Moon,” which left the audience impressed.
As the band progressed through their set, the audience eagerly sung along to classic songs like the fantastic Rollercoaster and Let’s Get Married. Their performance was outstanding, complemented by a totally involved Glasgow choir. Despite the lack of an encore, the band and Jack remained on stage to captivate the Glasgow audience until the thrilling finale of the event, which featured the song You’re Still a Mystery. The crowd was dancing and singing along to “I Wanna Get Better.” The band members’ faces revealed their excitement at the deafening loudness within the venue and the exciting atmosphere filled with enthusiasm for both the band and their music.
Jack and his ensemble closed their performance with the incredible Tiny Moves and delighted the crowd with Stop Making This Hurt. They said goodbye at this moment, leaving the crowd with the amazing Don’t Take The Money before leaving the stage to thunderous acclaim. This was a ‘wow’ moment, showcasing a masterclass in Bleachers music. Jack Antonoff was in top form, and Glasgow saw the band at its finest, delighting fans everywhere. Tonight, it was Glasgow’s turn.
If you have the opportunity to see the band, don’t pass it up; they will soon be performing in much larger places. Their show is a must see. Also, listen to their current self-titled album, Bleachers.
