It was the second night at Barrowland for Nathan Evans and the Saint Phnx band, as fans lined up outside the venue. Observing the crowd, it seemed that entire families had come to enjoy the show, with mothers, fathers, and children all in attendance.
As the doors swung open, they entered the venue to secure an excellent spot for the show. The PA system was blasting music, and the crowd enthusiastically sang along, creating an electric atmosphere. It was clear that the Glasgow audience was ready for an unforgettable night of fun.
Kicking off the event was Irish artist Matthew Nolan, who set out to energize the crowd with a fantastic blend of original songs and covers that got everyone singing along. Matthew showcased his impressive vocal talent, and his original tracks were particularly well-received. He’ll be returning in July to perform with his band, which is definitely something to look forward to. He shared anecdotes about his experience playing at the OVO Hydro with Little Mix, now in the Barrowland a venue he had always dreamed of performing in, and now he’s had the chance to play there twice in just two days. As he wrapped up his set, he reminded the audience of his upcoming July performance with his band, earning a warm response from the Glasgow crowd.
The moment was approaching for Nathan and the band to step onto the stage, with the venue filled to capacity. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as everyone eagerly awaited what the show would bring.
As the lights dimmed, the noise soared to a fever pitch. The stage lights flickered to life, heralding the first appearance of Alan Jukes. Nathan positioned himself at the front of the stage alongside Steve Jukes, while the touring guitarist from the Saint Phnx band settled onto the riser.
Steve and Alan sat at a table towards the back of the stage, raising their glasses to celebrate the evening as the stage lights cast a warm, ambient glow. This moment unfolded just before the first chord was struck. As Nathan welcomed the audience, he kicked off the festivities with the captivating “Flowers In The Water,” prompting the Barrowland crowd to sing along with exuberance, even overpowering Nathan’s vocals over the PA system at times. The band sounded incredible, with Nathan and Saint Phnx delivering a stellar performance. Having toured across Europe together, they were thrilled to return for this homecoming show, even though it was just the second night of the event.
Some of the initial highlights featured “Told You So,” “Wagon Wheel,” and “Perfect Storm,” which Nathan describes as a song reflecting the highs and lows of being in a relationship or marriage. He dedicated it to his wife for her patience with him.
Nathan shared the story behind his next song, which serves as a reminder of his experiences during a challenging period in his life. He encouraged everyone to talk and look to him as a testament to how quickly circumstances can change. The song, titled “Paper Planes,” holds a special significance for him, especially as the venue was filled with paper planes created by fans. It’s a powerful piece that resonates deeply with him, and it’s clear how it could inspire and assist others.
The chemistry among the four performers is incredible; they connect effortlessly and understand their roles perfectly. During a brief break, while the band took a moment to relax with refreshments from the table at the centre of the stage, the audience was delighted by a special surprise. Nathan stepped into the middle of the venue to deliver an acoustic rendition of “Caledonia,” with the Barrowland crowd joining in and singing along.
Nathan introduced the band, sharing with the crowd that he was on the lookout for a band and had asked Stave and Alan to step in, despite only having a few days to prepare a full set. Now, that moment has become part of history. He then announced the next song, one of his favourites from Saint Phnx, titled “Deadman.” Both Nathan and Steve Jukes performed the song, while fans of Saint Phnx in the audience sang along enthusiastically. The band continued their set with “I’m A Man” and the fantastic “100 Miles.” Steve took a moment to dedicate the next song to Alan and his late father, who had passed away a few years prior; today would have marked his 70th birthday. The song, “Happy Place,” was written by Steve in memory of his father. The crowd sang along passionately, as this was one of Saint Phnx’s hits. As the song concluded, the band exited the stage.
As the band made their way back to the stage, the noise reached a fever pitch, especially as they donned Scotland football jerseys. Nathan prompted the audience, asking, “Are you familiar with ‘Country Roads’?” in reference to the beloved John Denver classic. The band launched into the song, and the crowd joined in, fully embracing the celebratory atmosphere. Next, they performed an original piece they had written as an unofficial anthem for the Scotland National Team during the Euros in Germany. The audience began chanting, “No Scotland, No Party,” before the band kicked off the fantastic track, “Home”.
It was time to celebrate as Nathan and the band kicked off the festivities with the catchy sing-along tunes “Highland Girl” and then wrapped up with the fantastic “Heather on The Hill.” After the band exited the stage, Nathan remained to wave goodbye while the PA system played a remix of his classic hit “Wellerman,” prompting him and the fans to sing along. The excitement continued when the band returned to the stage, armed with super soakers, playfully drenching the front rows of the audience—an exhilarating way to cap off a wonderful evening of music.
As the band and Nathan exited the stage, the venue lights brightened, revealing an audience completely immersed in celebration. The smiles on their faces reflected the joy of an incredible performance. Nathan and Saint Phnx make an outstanding pair, and each of them shines as a performer. This is a show you won’t want to miss, whether on this tour or the next. You can expect an unforgettable experience, as their energy is undeniable.
Review by Karen Edmond
Photographs by James Edmond Photography
