Tenement Trail 2026 review

Ben Robertson, Fatale

Photo by The Ginger Quiff

Tenement Trail has become an annual event for my friend Joe and I. This can be quite tricky as the event falls at the start of the October schools week off, so we need to manage family expectations for a holiday to ensure that nothing is booked until after Tenement Trail!

Our own expectations were heightened this year by the fact that a number of bands we have been following were on the bill. Two of whom, Ferguson Hi-Fi and Fatale played the Pretty Green TT pre-party at Tuts the night before, along with Little Grandad who we had already seen earlier in the week when they supported the magnificent Madra Salach at Saint Luke's. I never quite got round to writing a blog on that, all I'll say is that Madra Salach were beautifully powerful and soulful. Next stop The Barrowland for them! King Tuts was remarkable value for money, £4 a ticket! More about Ferguson Hi-Fi and Fatale later ...

The sun was shining as Joe and I headed into BAaD to collect our wristbands for the day. We popped into Ho Lee Fook on London Road and were delighted to be seated immediately. The food was super fresh, tasty and had just the right level of kick. We were fueled for the day ahead.

After bumping into, and enjoying a great chat with, Robert from Paninaro / Social Recluse and the great Brian Sweeney, we also caught up with our mate Robbie and headed into Saint Luke's. A friend had recommended checking out Compost Compost Compost and said they were generating considerable interest. 

Compost Compost Compost

Now, I've got to admit, I'm a bit of a band name snob. I make no apologies for that! So, while I'll never like their name, I have to say that the band themselves were super talented, seemingly going for a post OK Computer Radiohead sound. Loads of effects on guitar, distinctive bass sounds, epic vocals and cool synth effects and sounds. Not really my thing, but I could totally hear why people are talking about them.

We then had a little spare time to wander round, first stopping into the Van Winkle where a soundcheck was on, but then deciding to head over to the 228 where we caught a few songs from Dan Parks, a young Scottish singer-songwriter armed only with an acoustic guitar. That can be difficult for a young artist, holding your own in a busy bar where people are talking, but Parks held his own. A song about a school race as a child was a metaphor for life, there was a choice cover of California Dreaming and I heard some echoes of Paolo Nutini. Parks appears to be doing well and is headlining Tuts on 20th December.

Paulie Swan

Out one door, a few steps along, up the stairs and we were into Barras 2 (the venue and bar on the same floor as the merch, toilets and cloackroom) for Paulie Swan who I featured in my preview blog. Swan's online releases feature a full band and cinematic strings. For TT, it was just American (now living in Edinburgh) Swan with his guitar and his soulful and distinctive voice. With lyrics seeming like a spew of self-consciousness, thoughts and observations, Swan played jazzy, bluesy guitar, with what sounded like the occasional CHIC riff thrown in at times. There are no choruses, at least none that I detected, but Swan is one cool customer and has the style and talent to do his own thing. Definite echoes of Cameron Winter, maybe even a nod to Hendrix in his delivery. My friends and I unanimously declared that we could absolutely see him on Later with Jools.

Maicin, Van Winkle, Tenement Trail 2026

We had a quick detour to The Gate and then split up, with Joe and Robbie heading to the Van Winkle for Maicin, while I headed back to Barras 2 for Angelface. Robbie declared Maicin his band of the day, with Joe saying they reminded him a little of Pavement at times.

Angelface

Meanwhile, Angelface played a beautifully, swirly and dreamy set that included covers of Mazzy Star's Fade Into You and Vampire Empire by Big Thief. Closing song Think Twice sounds like a future single to me. Think The Sundays, lots of reverb, harmonies to melt your heart and glorious lead vocals. Angelface play Mono for Hogmanay. 

Supersun

Supersun have featured in this blog a few times over the last year. Led by the energetic Adam Graham who also runs The Cabbage nights, the band has released Shine On as a limited edition flexi disc. I think this is an utterly brilliant song and it sounded fantastic in the Barrowland Ballroom, as did the psychedelic pop tinge Citrus Sunshine. Supersun drew a large crowd and are about to play a few dates on tour with The Bluetones. 

The following month, Supersun headline Stereo on 12th November for the first anniversary of their Cabbage nights and also plan to release a magazine to document the times. Adam Graham and his band are definitely bringing a fresh energy to the Glasgow scene.

Peter - Ferguson Hi-Fi

I was keen to catch Ferguson Hi-Fi, having fallen for the pure punk pop perfection of their debut single Get Over It and seeing them absolutely smash King Tuts at the Pretty Green sponsored Tenement Trail pre party the night before. Their blistering set was full of delicious hooks, choruses and riffs and songs that sound like future singles. 

So I headed swiftly back downstairs as Supersun were drawing to a close. Back in Barras 2, Ferguson Hi-Fi were having sound problems. Previously, Angelface had also faced issues, but it was evident that this was more serious. Guitarist Darren McCaughey ran back and forth from the stage to the sound-desk / sound-engineer - something wasn't going to plan. Around 10-minutes late, Ferguson Hi-Fi burst into life and after a song the sound seemed to come together. Thankfully! 

Peter Ferguson sings of life's challenges and beauty, backed by lead (played brilliantly by McCaughey) and rhythm guitars, a bass player who also sings beautiful harmonies at times and a cracking drummer. Clearly well rehearsed, the band zipped through a short set due to the sound issues (such a shame) but I saw enough at Tenement Trail and Tuts the previous night to easily spot a band on the rise.

Ferguson Hi-Fi have just released Little Things (There's Nothing Bigger) as their second single and their first headline show at McChuills on 19th November. TICKETS HERE. Look out for a feature on Ferguson Hi-Fi soon.

With Fatale coming on at 7.30pm, we had to decided whether or not to risk leaving the venue or not. So we decided to head upstairs to the Ballroom to catch some of Cliffords. I can't say I was aware of this band but they impressed. Tight, powerful and confident, singer Iona Lynch was soon commanding the attention of the sizeable (and filling fast) crowd with her impressive voice and stage presence. 

Fatale - Tenement Trail 2026

However, we only caught half of Cliffords set as we headed back down to Barras 2. I've caught Fatale a number of times in the last 16-months or so and this was the best I've seen them. They gave it absolutely everything. Their energy was incredible, drummer James Lindsay was in sensational form - driving everything along. The whole band vibed off the packed room and gave it back out times 10, lifting the room. Opener September was warm, Winged Horse was beautiful, Moves You was glorious - like Teenage Fanclub in that glorious phase between Catholic Education and Bandwagonesque. Video single Jesus Christ was a riot, new song Superstar was ... super! 

Ben Robertson was on top form, dancing, at the barrier, on the barrier, egging the crowd on, getting the place bouncing. Ahead of Another Sunrise, Robertson asked the crowd if they were going out tonight, going on to whip them into a frenzy with the hook I'm going out tonight. New song Bride closed the set, with a slightly heavier sound at times, though still super catchy. Fatale have been growing from strength to strength and I'm very excited to see them continue to develop through 2027.

King Tuts (for the third time this year) the previous night was good, but Fatale seemed to find another gear at Tenement Trail. It's such a great festival for new and breaking bands to play. It's one thing playing for your friends and fans, but another thing playing to festivals in front of strangers, drawn in by what they have seen, read or heard online, or simply because they have a space in their schedule. Judging by the fact there was one out and one in, I don't think too many people had simply stumbled across Fatale. This is a band on the rise.

With rumbling bellies, we walked round to Saint Luke's reminiscing about the burgers we'd had at the Guinness Bar and BBQ the previous year. And it was shutting down! Joe suggested heading to West Brewery and that was the end of our Tenement Trail. Yet another year where we haven't lasted until the headliners! Although we do tend to go for the discovery side of Tenement Trail. I guess some of the crowd do last the full day, while others come later on, and then there will be some like us who come early and don't quite last the distance. And this was me driving on and on Guinness zero!

Tenement Trail 2027 tickets are on sale now.

Tenement Trail 2026 preview

Tenement Trail 2026 could easily be the best yet. Headliners Brogeal are riding that 'word of mouth' wave that even the best marketing teams can't buy, while old Glasgow favourites Baby Strange are set to reunite for the 10th anniversary of their debut album Want It Need It.

I love how the area around The Barrowland Ballroom has developed over time. It's still got that gritty edge, but there are now super cool pubs and additional music and arts venues that have created a fantastic vibe and buzz. It's a super cool area to hang out. Joining The Barrowland to host bands and artists for Tenement Trail 2026 are; Barras Art and Design, Saint Lukes, McChuills, Van Winkle and 226 Gallowgate. There might even be some secret shows elsewhere if previous years are anything to go by.

Read on for my 5 Top Tenement Trail Tips and 10 acts to look out for.

TTTT Top Tenement Trail Tips

1. Go early

In recent years I've caught Kerr Mercer playing first on the bill. Kerr has since gone on to release a string of singles and tour with ... well loads of people, including huge shows with Lewis Capaldi. It's just a matter of time before this young Scottish singer-songwriter breaks through. Kerr's voice is extraordinary. Super soulful.

I'd especially recommend looking out for last minute additions to the bill. They are likely to be on early and be bands/artists that are generating a new buzz and that industry types are keen to see. Tenement Trail attracts labels and agents, it's a great festival for young acts to play.

2. Plan for food

Last year my friend Joe and I parked up at the Guinness BBQ outside Saint Luke's for delicious burgers and pints of the black stuff. The previous year we had street food from the wonderful Ho Lee Fook. This year - well we might head in for lunch, but we want to book a table so I'll keep the venue quiet until my review so we can get a space! The area is awash with funky bars, cafes and stalls to cater for your needs. 

3. Research

Not my strong point! Thankfully my friend Joe is bang into researching the acts playing and last year led us to Van Winkle for Madra Salach (pictured above) who absolutely blew us away. They have gone on to great things and are growing from strength to strength. So check out all the acts online in advance - or get a friend to help!

NOTE - My research has improved for this year, as evidenced below!

4. Pace yourself!

I need to take my own recommendation. Last year I was home for 10pm! I had a fantastic day though and caught some brilliant acts. For me, the best part of the festival is ducking and diving between venues to catch lots of bands I haven't seen before. So, if I'm in for the kick off, I'm usually pretty knackered by 8 or 9pm. This year, I am intending to stay sober ... but if the outdoor Guinness bar at Saint Luke's is on again, that will be put to the test!

5. Keep your eyes and ears open

Who will be the secret midnight headline act at McChuills? Will there be an secret acoustic sets in The Gate? Regardless, I'd recommend a visit to this gem of a pub across the road from the Barrowland. 

10 acts to look out for

I'm hoping that the Tenement Trail schedule is kind to me and allows me to zip around the Gallowgate to catch the following bands and artists. Hopefully there are no clashes!

Fatale

My favourite new band are riding the buzz of releasing their debut vinyl only EP, radio airplay and a string of cool support shows. Fatale's development over the last year or so has been really exciting to witness. Christopher Jollie's songs naturally find hooks and choruses, while Ben Robertson has really found his voice on record and come into his own on stage through lots of live shows and regular rehearsals. Euan Corrigan's lead guitar gels effortlessly with Christopher's rhythm, while Oscar Tighe on bass and James Lindsay on drums create beautifully tight but loose grooves to keep it all going. Fatale love playing live and if you like a lot of the music I write about in this blog, I think you'll love Fatale.

Paulie Swan

20-year old Edinburgh singer-songwriter. Cameron Winters vibes. Stoned. Strings. Crooning. Soulful. Could be pretty special. Swan released his beautiful, near 7-minute, debut single Me vs. Mothra back in January and then followed it with his 4-track Swans Today EP in the summer. Instagram

Ferguson Hi-Fi

 

Ferguson Hi-Fi released their outrageously catchy debut single Get Over It in the summer and it immediately caught the attention of Steve Lamaq and 6Music. No wonder. This is high energy garage guitar punk pop. The verses immediately command attention, singer-songwriter Pete Ferguson screams the bridge to the chorus, then rams the chorus home time and time again. There is a gorgeous breakdown with Pete just letting out an ooh as if in love with the sound of the guitar riff, then it's back into the chorus one final time. Look out for a future introducing blog on this band.

Supersun

Supersun have had a super productive 2026, releasing a limited edition 7-inch flexi single Shine On for Record Store Day and playing regularly in all the right places across Glasgow. Mono for RSD, Old Hairdressers for Freakender, headlining McChuills and also running their own night The Cabbage. Oh and they produce a fanzine! Two twelve string guitars are central to their melodic sound. Supersun play 3-dates with The Bluetones later in October and should win plenty of new fans. 

Maicin

Imagine the lovechild of Billy Bragg and Jarvis Cocker ... now get your head out of the gutter and picture Maicin - so says the bands Bandcamp page. Maicin (pronounced Mackeen) are playing some dates with The Pogues later this year. Hailing from Cork in Ireland, their name comes from the nickname bestowed on frontman Matt by his Nan. Maicin means 'little man'. Described as punk with dirt under its nails and poetry in its back pocket - I'm planning to check them out.

Angelface

Despite blogging about Angelface back in January, I have yet to see them live. I can't wait to experience their glorious harmonies in person. Describing themselves as indie-folk / dream-pop, they've posted a series of cover versions and originals on their social channels, generating a lot of interest as a result.

The Paris Match

I caught The Paris Match playing McChuills last year. Their Libertines-y guitar pop and high energy antics won a lot of fans that day. I expect many of them will be heading out to see them again and this time they will bring their pals. Instagram

Tom A Smith

I heard about this young guy via Rowetta from Happy Mondays Instagram after she guested on vocals at one of Tom’s live shows. Hailing from Sunderland, Smith has already released his debut album. it's a mix of beats, grooves and kind of Baxter Dury / Yard Act style vocals. Check I Don't Blame You - all kinds of edgy catchy cool. Instagram

The Orielles

Signed to Heavenly Recordings, I was shocked to learn that The Orielles released their 4th album earlier this year! So I've not been keeping up with them! I got Silver Dollar Moment, their debut, back in 2018 and caught them in Mono around that time. The Orielles are fiercely independent and are capable of finding cool grooves and having fun with them, while having a pop mindset.

Oedipus & The Mamas Boys

Edinburgh 8-piece who have released 3 singles to date. They are quite eclectic. Bleed isn't really my thing, it's a bit too heavy. But Stretched/Kitchen is tender and lush, building to a dramatic conclusion, while A Daisy for You, John reminds me of a whole mix of bands like Admiral Fallow and Idlewild. Instruments include saxaphone, violin and trumpet. Website

Saint Mungo EP by Fatale

Last June I published a blog on Fatale, a new young band from my hometown of Uddingston. They had just played their first couple of gigs and released a demo of an original song called Moves You and a cover of Femme Fatale. You can still check them out here - FATALE DEMOS

I fell for Fatale instantly. And then fell even further upon seeing the band live and bumping into them in person in McChuills and at gigs. Ben Robertson (vocals), Euan Corrigan (lead guitar), Christopher Jollie (guitar and songs), Oscar Tighe (bass) and James Lindsay (drums) are super tight, literally bouncing off each other whether on stage or hanging out. They look the part, with great hair, style, warm smiles and a cheeky charm. 

Live, and in recordings, they have developed considerably in the last year. Building interest and generating greater reactions with each and every gig. They are getting about town in all the right places ... and have a wonderful natural confidence, as well as a real thirst for discovering music.

Fatale have wisely taken their time to record and release. Waiting to find the right studio and producer. Chris McCrory has done a cracking job in capturing their raw energy, ear for pop, love of guitars and instinct for hooks and flows.

The result is the six-track vinyl only Saint Mugo EP - named after the patron Saint of Glasgow. You can catch the brilliant DIY video for the song Jesus Christ below. It's like The Monkees in Glasgow sunshine on Buckfast Tonic Wine!

Read on for my track-by-track review. You can also check this recent blog for an interview with Christopher Jollie. You can also order the EP from the fabulous Monorail.

Moves You

Moves You is an absolute blast. 30-seconds of overdriven guitars leading to the first verse, which could be mistaken for a chorus. This is one of Fatale's strengths, they have an instinct for melody and hooks, verses are like choruses. Raw and soulful harmonies, young romantic lyrics sung from the heart.

Would you find a price for all the stars that shine on you?

There is a sublime, unexpected, dreamy breakdown after the first chorus before Fatale burst back into life. Guitars crash, collide, chime, blur, reverberate and fuzz together. Glorious.

Winged Horse

The guitar intro to Winged Horse warms my heart. Fatale quickly find a groove behind it and the beats encourage handclaps. The bridge to the chorus has the hook I'm walking through the East End of my mind, I'm searching for a place I cannot find. Then the double chorus 

You take a piece of me

To make some time for you

Every word I meant to say

Ends up lost along the way

This is under 2.5 minutes of flowing guitar pop. 

Another Sunrise

Another Sunrise begins with warm Big Star-esque guitars that sounds like they are basking in summer sunshine. Ben Robertson croons the opening lines.

That summer feeling can't keep me warm the rest of my life

Things then explode for the prechorus, with Robertson calling it out.

I'm beginning to wonder is that all that there could be

My eyes are open, but there's nothing I can see

This leads to the defiant, don't give a f**k  statement hook of I'm going out tonight. I can imagine this blasting out of radios and speakers, and being sung wholeheartedly by teenagers across the country (and beyond). Another verse, prechorus and chorus lead to guitars rising and Robertson repeating the hook. Then Fatale slow it down to a delicious fuzzy feedback fade out.

Jesus Christ

I first caught Fatale playing in King Tuts in July 2025 and described Jesus Christ as the catchiest guitar pop song I've heard in a long time. While there are a few contenders on this EP, this is a beautiful riot of a song and recording. Serious top marks to producer Chris McCrory for the energy and guitar sounds he has captured. He gets it - big time.

The guitars of Euan and Christopher collide gloriously, there are more hooks than Rocky Bilbao fighting at his peak. Most bands would love to have the verses to this tunes as choruses! The bridge/pre-chorus is even catchier and then there is the chorus itself;

 

Jesus Christ knocked on my door

Just let me sleep ten minutes more

Coming out with songs of praise

Oh now I'm lost in a Catholic haze

Having had the pleasure of spending time with main songwriter Christopher, one ambition (that he has mentioned more than once) of his always sticks out: he wants to write songs that feel like one continuous giant chorus - or a seamless sequence of them. Hook after hook.

So immediately out of the chorus appears another super catchy bridge back into the chorus. Keeping up? Well if you can't that is part of the charm of this delicious slice of guitar punk pop.  You'll want to play it again ... and again.

How can I hold my head up when you're down

How can I stand the world when you're not around

The little fuzz bass break after the middle eight is superb. Then it's straight back into the chorus for a final blast. Think God Knows It's True era Fanclub meeting The Undertones for a couple of pints of Guinness and then having a jam. Catchy guitar brilliance. Infectious energy. 

St Mungo

Title track St Mungo is beautifully melancholic. Robertson's voice has an aching quality to it as he sings she's the song I've never sung. The backing vocals are heavenly, and there is a wonderful feeling to the guitars, especially as they ring through solo/break after Robertson declaring I swear I will learn. They continue to ring through the short outro with gorgeous band harmonies I'll never, ever, learn

Long Hair

Speaking of melancholy, Fatale strip things right back, to go acoustic for the final track. Robertson sounds dreamily in love, not caring about anything other than being with his girl. 

I don't know what you're thinking baby

I don't know if your hairs grown long

Robertson declares took so long to find you, and then sings it again, as if he can't believe his luck. Keyboard is introduced and beautifully and naturally adds to the dreamy feeling.

There is a real organic feel to the recording, almost demo like. But sometimes a demo captures things in a way that can't be replicated. Robertson mumbles that's fucked at the end. But he gets it bang on. Sung from the heart. 

Interview - Fatale

Fatale - July 2026

Photo by Brian Sweeney

With thanks to PANINARO

Ahead of the release of their debut, vinyl only, EP entitled Saint Mungo, I caught up with Fatale guitarist and songwriter Christopher Jollie to find out how things are going. 

Fatale only played their first gig back in May 2025 and have had quite a year since! A recent highlight being airplay for their song Jesus Christ on 6Music, BBC Radio Scotland and Amazing Radio. 

Read on for reflections, producers, guitar pedals and sounds, plans, gigs Chris has been to and what he is listening to - including a playlist.

Look out for a blog on Fatale's Saint Mungo EP at the start of August.

Visit Fatales linktr.ee for news on forthcoming gigs and to sign up for their enewsletter.

It's been a year since we first spoke for this blog. How has it been for you and the band? Any personal highlights? 

Fatale - June 2025 Introducing blog and interview

It’s been a blur honestly, from the first gig selling out McChuills, to kicking off the new year with a sold out King Tut’s, everything’s just fallen into place. Tut’s felt like a real shift for everyone. The walk from the State Bar into the back entry felt like a scene from a coming of age film. We’ve had a lot of help along the way from a great team of people around us which has helped massively too.

How has your songwriting and the sound (and performance) of the band developed in that time?

Young folk aren’t getting handed any hope just now, and I think - subconsciously or not - the songs have always reflected a refusal to accept that you have to live accordingly. Songwriting wise, I’ve found a more distinct identity in the lyrics, but the music is always the first port of call. We’ve all come along a great deal in musicianship, and the live & studio performances are evidence of this.

Christopher - King Tuts, January 2026

How important for you is it to get your songs out into the world on vinyl?

Ever since our first gig, we’ve wanted to have songs out. Looking back now, we’re all glad we’ve held off. To have an EP full of songs we wouldn’t change for the world is a beautiful feeling and the first time we lay our hands on the record will be emotional.

Any plans to release digitally for now?

There’s currently nothing in the works to release these tracks on streaming, which is all the more incentive to get the record.

What was the recording process like for you guys? How important was it to find the right producer?

We recorded Moves You four times before it ever felt right, which proves the importance of the right producer. Chris McCrory is full of ideas and gets the music. As soon as we decided to do the EP to tape, the live energy came across as if we were playing to the Barras.

Recording was surreal. We’ve sat with these songs for some time, so to have them realised was a beautiful experience. Hearing the songs back, out the blaring speakers, made us realise we had a proper record on our hands.

The guitar sounds are fantastic, super warm and feel natural. Did it you have to work hard to find that sound, or did it all happen quite quickly and organically?

Feedback and overdrive make our hearts race, so that’s always been at the core of the sound. My guitar rig on the record consists of a cheap Jazzmaster, a Vox AC15, and an OCD pedal. Kevin Shields read and weep. Euan, on the other hand, was far more adventurous. I shall pass my phone to Euan for his rundown.

Euan - Thank you Chris. My rig on the record was what the boys would describe as prog, which in reality is 5 pedals. I used a Fulltone boost pedal that the Fanclub use, cranked to the max, to get a natural distortion from my Vox AC15. Sorry if this is too nerdy. Also, a random VHS reverb and an MXR delay are very important to my lead tones. I think what I learned though, is that it’s really important to get the dynamics on the guitar, and on the EP it’s basically a lot of hitting the strings as hard as possible.

Fatale - Chris and Euan

Photo by Brian Sweeney

With thanks to PANINARO

Are you planning a return to the recording studio any time soon?

We’re trying to get the time to go in with a few cool people, but we’re just focused on getting as many new songs, which are coming faster than ever. They’re feeling like an evolution from Saint Mungo which is always good.

What do you have coming up in the months ahead?

We’ve got a few multi venue festivals lined up for October which should be a good laugh. The next year will be focused on getting us a good deal of live shows, with the intention of getting ourselves in front of as many people as possible.

Been to any good gigs lately?

Geese were a standout. The lights, the Primal’s cover, the band, all phenomenal. Westside Cowboy (pictured below), who we caught at TRNSMT, were another magical experience, helped by coming out to the The Concept. Ended up chatting to them after the gig about all the bands we were into, which was surreal. The next time we’ll be in the Barra’s green room it’ll be ours, hopefully.

Jacob Alon is one of Scotland’s finest just now, so ethereal and inspiring. Seeing them at TRNSMT, backed by a great band, was enough to make you reconsider whether you should even bother making music. Brogeal, our mates, played two raucous nights at the Art School earlier this year which we all enjoyed. Radhika with The Cords and Stone Anthem at Mono was another fantastic show.

Outside of that, the Cabbage, and the bands that are associated, have all made us proud to be a part of it all. Bogle, The Floor Dwellers, Lupercalia, Supersun (self indulgent of me, I know), and The Violets, are all some of the most exciting bands coming out of Scotland just now.

What are you listening to at present?

I’ve been listening to a lot of Sebadoh as of late. Soul and Fire is such a beautifully written song. There’s also a fantastic cover of the Velvet’s Heroin, by Thurston Moore & Bobby Gillespie that I stumbled upon recently, which has made a walk down Buchanan Street into something else entirely. We made up a playlist (Saint Mungo's Star Children) full of the songs that inspired the making of the record which is linked on the website. As a last aside, I’ve got really into 60’s French Pop, Roller Girl by Anna Karina (video below) being a standout.

Fatale at McChuills - March 2026

Fatale l-r James, Euan, Oscar (top), Ben, Chris

Saturday nights in McChuills have been the source of much pleasure for me over the years. Old Nick DJ-ing behind the bar early on, DJ's taking to the decks later, playing (or attempting to play in a busy area!) pool, meeting friends, ending the night there after a gig at the Barrowland Ballroom ... It's a wonderful pub full of characters, behind the bar and on the other side. McChuills has soul and strong values. They know what is right and what is wrong. And they love music! Lots of old faces still regularly frequent the bar and the decks. 

McChuills the kind of pub you fall for, dream of and pine for. These days, visiting is more of a treat, but every time I visit I think of my old flat in Dennistoun and times where I'd wander in for a pint after work and stay for a few, or ... wilder weekends.

It's great to see that McChuills still attracts a variety of subcultures of all ages. I mentioned Old Nick (who was DJ-ing before Andrew Divine last night) above and his son young Nick has done a grand job of changing things just ever so slightly, to put on bands and club nights in the side room ... or Acid Arch. Wet Leg (old blog here) and David Holmes are just 2 of the names to have graced the stage through there.

Fatale were back to the venue where they played their first gig in May 2025 - still less than a year ago! The band hang out in McChuills regularly and both are a perfect fit for each other. Fresh/recovered from 3-date tour of Aberdeen, Dundee and Inverness with The Cords and a show with Warren McIntyre and James Kirk in Edinburgh the previous night, the 5-piece were gig fit. 

Taking to the stage at 10pm, Fatale blitzed straight into Moves You, their traditional set closer. It was a bold move and it worked a treat, the place was bouncing. This is a fuzzy punky pop gem with a glorious breakdown, before zipping back to full throttle. Exhilarating!

Fatale have improved every time I've caught them live since last summer; sound, performance and songs. New song Sugar Bowl was melodic with the duelling guitars sounding sublime. Own Embrace and Another Sunrise sound like old friends. I find myself half singing a-long, even though I've only ever heard them live.

A cover version of Buttermilk by Eugenius fitted like a glove. That guitar riff never got the credit it deserves. Winged Horse, By The Tide and September kept things going while allowing Fatale to show different sides to their natural instinct for melodies, guitar sounds and hooks. 

The rhythm section of Oscar (bass) and James (drums) keep things tight, while also driving the sound along, while the guitars of Euan and Chris (also backing vocals) carry the joy of youthful enthusiasm through chords, riffs, solos and the effects they use. Ben Robertson was born to be a front man - conducting band mates and crowd with his on stage moves. All have fantastic hair! 

Wired sounds like a potential single. While Jesus Christ most definitely will be at some point. Beginning with a warm Big Star-esque riff, the song then explodes into life and is like one big chorus, full of infectious energy.

Fatale seem to have a natural feel for songwriting. Their musical knowledge and taste comes across in the songs they have covered since I first caught them last summer. The confidence that comes from playing gigs and generating a buzz from them seems to be lifting them to new levels. Building on the solid foundation they had from the off with early songs like Moves You, Jesus Christ and Another Sunrise.

Speaking of which, the band are clearly taken by new song Saint Mungo - named after the patron saint and founder of the City of Glasgow. It's the title track of their debut EP that is coming out on a limited edition 12-inch. ORDER HERE

Coming on for an encore, Ben announced that this would be the last time they played their cover of The Velvets Femme Fatale, however given the reaction, I'd be surprised if that's the case! They should definitely keep it up their sleeves for their adventures outwith Glasgow.

The band ended as they began, with an even more super charged version of Moves You, starting with Ben crowd surfing, before their good friend Ben Brown took over and somehow managed to stay aloft! Great fun.

Keep an eye on Fatale's Instagram page for news of up coming shows.

Next up is a gig at The Art School as part of the multi-venue House Guest festival on 4th April. The festival also takes in Sleazys and The 1990 (formerly Broadcast).

Fatale - NYR at King Tuts

Glasgow seems to recognise how dark, wet, cold and miserable January is, so the city does its very best to put on music events to keep spirits up. Celtic Connections attracts artists and music fans from across the globe. Closer to home, King Tuts Wah Wah Hut promotes the best new bands around as part of their New Year Revolution series of shows through January. 

On Friday (9th) night I headed in to see Fatale, a young five piece, still in single figures for gigs and yet to release a single. As mentioned in an earlier blog this month, I think Fatale are the most exciting young band in Scotland at present. They look great, have fantastic taste in (and enthusiasm for) music and out of their 11-song set, taking into account the 2 cover versions, 5 or 6 of their own 9 songs sound like they could be clear and obvious singles. 

This was the best I've seen Fatale. They played with confidence, introduced new songs to their set and looked like they were having even more fun on stage than the audience, who were jumping and pogo-ing around. There was even a brilliant display of crowd surfing during the band's final song! 

Lead singer Ben Robertson somehow managed to keep his hat on for the first few songs, before eventually taking it off due to the heat in the room. Robertson is a natural front man, his energy is infectious. He has his arm round his guitarists at times, while at others he is down at the barrier and in with the crowd. Good vibes.

Good vibes all round. From the warm guitar opening of September onwards, Fatale blitzed King Tuts. A cover of The Vaselines Molly's Lips third song really got the place going.

Head's Gone could be one of the aforementioned singles. While Jesus Christ almost certainly will be. A teasing intro with Big Star-esque guitar sounds leads to the band flying through the verse to the chorus. 

Jesus Christ knocked on my door, just let me sleep 10-minutes more

Coming out with songs of praise, righteousness lost in the haze

Another Sunrise is another one that connects, the defiant statement hook of I'm going out tonight will probably be blasting out of radios and speakers within a couple of years and be sung wholeheartedly by teenagers across the country (and beyond).

Fatale were in full flow. The duel guitars of Euan and Chris (sporting a Shonen Knife t-shirt) were deliciously fuzzy, bassist Oscar locked in the groove, while James (vintage AC Milan shirts swapped for a Maradona T) on drums drove things forward.

By The Tide is another guitar pop gem. Fatale seem to have a natural feel for a good song structure. They know when to build a bridge, when to rip through a verse, when to hammer home a chorus or hook. 

New song Wired (To The Feeling) felt effortless. The band seem to be writing brilliant new songs ona regular basis. They could already start recording and releasing a steady stream of singles. But they (probably rightly) are letting things build. After all, as mentioned previously, they have still played less than 10 gigs. You can check a couple of demos on their soundcloud though.

I'm wired to the feeling

When I'm by your side

Electricity is flowing

Everything's just right

With every tear you don't cry

With every tear you don't cry

Fatale closed with the two songs they recorded as demos 8-months ago. Their cover of Femme Fatale by The Velvets has become a sing-song, the call and response chorus and then the hook see the way she walks, hear the way she talks is sung with love on stage and in the crowd.

Then it was the glorious Moves You, like a long lost Fanclub song from between A Catholic Education and Bandwagonesque. Full of zip and zest, but with a sublime breakdown and harmonies, before a furious romp through the chorus, cracking instrumental with a brilliant guitar solo and another run through the first verse and chorus for good measure. 

Fatale head out on the road in February for dates with The Cords. Keep an eye on their Instagram page.

26/02 - Cafe Drummond, Aberdeen

27/02 - Beat Generator, Dundee

29/02 - Upstairs, Inverness

Introducing Supersun

Supersun came to my attention via a scene that is naturally developing among a young group of kids in and around Glasgow who share a mutual love of guitar bands - ranging from The Beatles, The Velvet Underground and The Byrds, through to classic Scottish bands like Teenage Fanclub, Velocity Girl era Primals, Eugenius and The Mary Chain. They seem to have found each other or be in the process of finding each other, which is amazing. It's creating a lot of energy. 

Led by Adam Graham, Supersun are not just crafting infectiously melodic and harmonious tunes, but also actively nurturing the city's vibrant scene through their exciting new night, The Cabbage that is held upstairs in The Doublet Bar on Park Road. 

Supersun live debut at The Cabbage

Back in November, I was fortunate to attend the first night (also Supersun's first (and so far only) gig) that featured The Violets, Fatale and Supersun, before all 3 united for a gloriously loving ramshackle sing-a-long of Teenage Fanclub's Everything Flows. There was a fanzine, stickers, and friends playing records after the bands had finished. Just a lovely, positive, friendly and welcoming scene. The second Cabbage night is on 15th January. It sold out in 5-minutes. There are only 40 tickets, but that is fantastic!

The Cabbage Forever - Instagram page

As an older guy still kicking about the scene, I feel inspired and uplifted when I learn about all these young bands getting into the kind of music I was discovering when I was their age. The beat goes on.

Everything Flows at The Cabbage

Supersun, as you'll learn in the interview below, is very much a family affair, injecting their shared history and undeniable chemistry into a sound that marries the sun-drenched harmonies and chiming guitars of the 60's - Adam and his brother Jack both play twelve strings. Shack and The Coral came to mind during their set - there is a loving dash and splash of modern psychedelic jangle-pop in the Supersun sound. 

Adam's ambitions for Supersun are driven by a deep pride for Glasgow's musical heritage alongside a love and understanding of new guitar bands breaking through. He sounds determined to leave his mark on the city - through music and events.

I caught up with Adam to discuss the origins of Supersun, their influences, the ethos behind The Cabbage and what is coming up next ...

1. How did the Supersun form? Where are you all from and what do you each play? How did you get to know each other?

Supersun has ended up as a bit of a family affair. There’s me, Adam – the one who sings the songs and plays guitar. Then there’s my brother Jack and sister Julia, who provide the blood-harmonies and colour things in with a few other sounds. Finally, there’s our cousin Chris who plays bass. I needed a vessel for the songs I’d been writing – asking the others to join was just the obvious choice, and the easiest. Since then, we’ve really come together as a force of something I believe to be pretty special.

2. How did you start creating music together? Does anyone take the lead on writing? Or do you jam ideas?

My brother and I have been playing together for as long as I can remember. We have been writing and performing as The Plastic Youth for a while now – Supersun is the new project, with myself emerging from behind the drums. At the moment, I’ve been taking the lead on the writing front, but the real essence of the songs only sparks once everybody has added their charm.

Jack, Julia, Adam and Chris - Supersun

3. What kind of music are you listening to at present? Have any bands influenced you?

We are all massive fans of the 60's – this is what we grew up with in the house and what has ultimately informed our style, especially the harmonies. Our sound feels fresh, something I’ve not really heard before. We encapsulate the charm of the 60's with the pulse of the baggy 90's, with some nods toward modern psychedelic jangle-pop. A bunch of bands that have really influenced the sound would be The Beatles, Donovan, The Stone Roses, The Charlatans, The La’s, Melody’s Echo Chamber, and Alvvays.

4. You've started a night at The Doublet called The Cabbage. What is the idea behind the night? And the name?

The Cabbage is a celebration of all that has come from Scottish youth across generations – from the past masters of Scottish music to the fresh faces on the block. The idea of The Cabbage originally came about to offer Supersun and the bands around us a different route into the industry – an alternative to average, uninspiring nights. At its core, we are the new youth culture, dedicated to championing the next generation of Scottish artists – having a good time while we do it.

As for the name, I remember working with Gerry Love on The Plastic Youth album, we were talking about naming the tracks. He mentioned their song The Cabbage, I don’t know if it was a caution of giving something a mental name or just pointing it out as one of those things you do at the time. Either way, when I was thinking of a name for the scene, I thought that’s perfect – I’ll use that. It’s a nod to Scottish music and captures that feeling of being young and not caring too much.

5. When you think of Glasgow and music, what comes to mind?

Pride. I feel proud to be from Glasgow, knowing everything that has come from the city in regard to music and art. I also feel a drive to etch our name onto its cultural tapestry.

6. What do you have coming up in terms of gigs, recording and releasing? 

We are pretty fresh on the scene, so the future’s wide open. There is definitely something special stirring in Scottish music – our future lies in helping it off the ground and leading the charge. We have a few tricks up our sleeve; the first we can share is our upcoming show with The Cords and BMX Bandits. We are sitting on a number of big tunes, so the plan is to get them out as records as soon as we can. Other than that, we are going to continue creating exciting stuff with The Cabbage and Fool Creations.

Come along for the ride – let’s see where it goes.

Supersun play Mono on Thursday 12th February for the launch of Fool Creations. TICKETS

Fool Creations is Adam's new events and record distribution company. Find out more about them in February.

2026 - Scottish music scene

Happy New Year.

Welcome to my first blog of the year. Read on to learn about;

• New bands/artists I'm excited about following through 2026 and beyond
• Emerging acts I continue to champion 
• Albums I am looking forward to
• Gigs I already have tickets for
• Gigs or festivals I am looking forward to

I hope that you might check some of the artists and shows out.

ENJOY!

5 new bands/artists

Fatale

The most exciting young band in Scotland? I think so. They are certainly my favourite. Fuzzy and scuzzy guitars, loads of songs (Moves You, Another Sunrise and Jesus Christ to name a few) that sounds like potential singles and choice covers of songs by legendary Scottish bands like Primal Scream (Velocity Girl), The Mary Chain (Taste of Cindy) and The Vaselines (Molly's Lips) as well as The Velvets Femme Fatale where they got their name from.

Fatale are a real gang who (literally) bounce off each other with natural ease and humour. Their taste and knowledge of music is exceptional and they have a thirst to discover all kinds of stuff - the influences of their influences. Like all good bands, Fatale have fantastic hair. As an added bonus, they regularly showcase a first class collection of retro band t-shirts and AC Milan (via drummer James) football tops.

Fatale are kicking off 2026 with a headline show at King Tuts Wah Wah Hut on Friday 9th January. Still in single figures for gigs, they then head out on the road with fellow faves of mine The Cords for dates in Dundee, Aberdeen and Inverness in February. Teenage Kicks!

Yet to release a single, Fatale are focusing on building a following, while also hitting the studio to build up a string of singles and work towards an album.

Instagram  Soundcloud - demos

Introducing blog (June 2025)

Radhika

Citing The Pastels, Cocteau Twins and Strawberry Switchblade as inspiration, Radhika has played some choice gigs through 2025 and starts 2026 by playing London and Manchester shows with support from Gerry Love and Wor_kspace (Finlay MacDonald). Radhika's song Future Me on her Bandcamp is gorgeous dreamy indie pop, I hear a tinge of Belle & Sebastian (especially in the outro) in addition to her aforementioned influences. Starry Eyes (below) is swirling, swoony and sublime. 

Full INTRODUCING blog and interview coming soon.

Bandcamp  Instagram

Angelface

Described by my sister Carla as - the best new girl band in Scotland that you haven't heard of yet. Think The Sundays meets Big Thief with a massive dose of harmonies a la The Roches. 

The band themselves say - we're an all girl indie folk dream pop band.

Angelface play King Tuts on 29th January. 

Instagram

Supersun

3 siblings and their cousin, two twelve string guitars, a shared love of melodic guitar pop music, the introduction of their own regular night and the desire to become part of Glasgow's musical heritage and future. Supersun formed in the fall of 2025 and have only played one gig to date.

Their next is at Mono on 12th February with The Cords and a stripped back set by BMX Bandits. TICKETS 

Full INTRODUCING blog and interview coming soon.

Instagram

Other People's Leisure

Other People's Leisure have a studio/lock up with a bank of electronic equipment and lights. IT LOOKS AMAZING!  The duo released 3 singles within a couple of months at the end of 2025, mixing house beats, ambient and shoegaze textures with all kinds of synth goodness. Debut shows are booked at Leith Depot and The Hug & Pint in March.  Full INTRODUCING blog and interview coming soon.

Instagram

2 emerging bands/artists

Kerr Mercer

After a very busy 18-24 months on the road, supporting a vast array of artists, Kerr 'finally' released his debut single Alcohol at the end of 2024. I say 'finally', as his social media posts made it clear that he was chomping at the bit to get his songs out into the world. No wonder! 

Alcohol is a belter of a debut.Stripped back, leaving plenty of room for Mercer's rich and soulful voice, telling the teenage tale of going out drinking and falling for someone. Check the live video below - exceptional.

Kerr's voice is incredible and in addition to a busy time gigging, Kerr has also been writing constantly. Alcohol could open the floodgates. Still a teenager, Mercer is set to be around for decades.

Instagram

March 2025 BBC Scotland article

The Cords

Eva and Grace gigged hard through 2025 and released their eponymous debut album. With a 3-date tour with Fatale in February followed by an extensive tour supporting The Charlatans in spring, The Cords star is set to continue to rise. Infectious melodies, punky guitar, primal beats and honest lyrics that make observations and tell stories and feelings are winning fans everywhere.

Instagram

Introducing The Cords (Jan 2024)

3 albums I'm looking forward to

Gerard Love & The Magic Influence

2026 will surely be the year that Gerry releases the much anticipated solo album that he has been working on for a while. This has included time down in Liverpool with Bill Ryder-Jones. 

Given the members in his band, Gerry is likely to have to fit a release around Belle & Sebastian and Teenage Fanclub tours. My hunch is that if it happens, it will be a Spring or Winter release ... of this year! 

News of Gerry going into CHEM19 to mix leaves me extremely hopeful. But who knows?

Instagram

Carla J Easton

Solo album number 5 for my sister. 10-years since her Homemade Lemonade album and also Say It All With A Kiss by TeenCanteen. 20-years since she formed her first band - Futuristic Retro Champions.

Carla recorded at CHEM19 with Howard Bilerman on production duties. The two had previously worked together when Carla recorded her Impossible Stuff album in Canada at Howards hotel2tango studio. It's probably my favourite album of Carla's, I love the natural and live feel to it. 

What a shot of confidence to have Howard fly over! And to have so many friends answering calls to play on the album. I think it is Carla's best body of work to date. Her live show at the Old Hairdressers for Tiny Changes was brilliant - I loved seeing and hearing Carla play guitar with a huge beaming smile on her face.

Website   Instagram

Teenage Fanclub 

Touch wood. Teenage Fanclub will be recording an album in early 2026! Will it come out this year? Well, if it's mixed and mastered quickly, you just never know! Autumn gigs? You never know ;-)

Website

4 gigs I already have tickets for

Fatale at King Tuts - 09/01

Less than a year since playing their debut show, Fatale headline King Tuts. Expect new songs alongside early favourites.

Hen Hoose album launch at The Tramway - 30/01

Hen Hoose have really gone from strength to strength in the last couple of years. Tamara Schlesinger had a clear vision and along with her growing collective, she has paved a way for female and non-binary artists to gain peer support, confidence and community. 

12 of the community decamped to the Isle of Lewis in late summer of 2025 to write and record an album, suitably entitled The Twelve, due for release this month. I've been fortunate to hear the album and it's a super fresh mix of pop, reflection and joy.

Instagram

Geese at The Barrowland Ballroom - March and August

Photo by Tommy Krause

Instagram

Big Thief at The Barrowland Ballroom - May 

Photo by Michael Buishas

4 gigs/festivals I am looking forward to

• Summer Nights at Kelvingrove Bandstand

I already have tickets for Cast playing the Bandstand, but I always look forward to the Summer Nights announcement.

• Heather on the Hill Festival

Nathan Evans and the Saint PHNX Band are putting on a massive show in Edinburgh and it is all ages and family friendly. In addition to seeing friends Stevie and Alan headline with Nathan, my kids have their eyes on Ella Henderson.

• Teenage Fanclub tour

Teenage Fanclub are at a beautiful stage in their career where they are releasing and touring regularly, with a desire to play venues, towns and countries they have never played before. The band have played pretty much everywhere in Glasgow, but have yet to play Saint Luke's ... maybe a couple of nights there? Come to think of it, BAaD would also be brilliant for them!

• Tenement Trail

My friend Joe and I try to go to this every year. Can we last until the end in 2026?!

The area around the Barrowland becomes awash with exciting young bands and artists, full of fans mingling between venues, a real buzz. Madra Salach (below) were a highlight.