Glasgow’s Barrowlands (The Barras) is a historic venue which unfortunately seems to have gone out of favour on the majority of touring circuits in the last few years. It’s probably been over a year since I’ve seen any live bands here, but tonight I’m here to see Fatherson. Formed in Kilmarnock, now based in Glasgow, they have already played some decent headline shows as well as supporting several big acts including Idlewild and Feeder and tonight they are supporting Admiral Fallow.
They are a four-piece, often extended by a few, but tonight they play as a five-piece which fits well on to The Barras stage. Ross Leighton on guitar/vocals is joined by Marc Strain on bass, Greg Walkinshaw on drums and Chris Beltran on keyboards/guitars. Their numbers tonight also include Elaine Glass on cello which adds beautifully to their sound. Throughout the set the band appear to be revelling in the setting, and the crowd are fairly responsive given the band is one of two support acts for the main event. At one point someone in the crowd nearby politely requests that a large chattering group “Shut the fuck up”. Fatherson’s sound is somewhere between Biffy Clyro and Frightened Rabbit in the melodic-rock vein, with more than a hint of folk. Singer Ross Leighton is joined by the rest of the band, grins abound, mouthing along to just about every word to every song which adds to the feeling this is a band that really does enjoy what they’re doing. It’s a joy to watch as well. Last track Hometown gets the best reaction of the set.
Fatherson and friends play a special acoustic show at Glasgow’s King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut on January 16th with brass, strings and piano. Early 2013 will see a new single released followed by the bands debut album.
www.facebook.com/fathersonband
Image the property of http://www.thepopcop.co.uk
