I have seen the future of music, their name is Glasvegas! I have become obsessed with this band since I discovered them back in June. Their music has struck me in ways with such little music of theirs available. Having no patience to wait for Itunes or the January US release, I imported the CD from the UK in September as well as A Snowflake Fell (and it Felt Like a Kiss), the band's holiday EP. I had the opportunity to get the bands first American interview back in October and seeing the band's success grow in front of my eyes has been like watching a child develop. Critically acclaimed the world over, the Glasgow foursome are looking to make their mark in America. Only playing the States briefly in October, they are on another small headlining tour to support the physical US release of their self titled debut.
Tuesday night was the bands album release showcase at New York's Bowery Ballroom, a historic venue that holds about 500 people. The sold out crowd was interested to see the hype behind the band and to see what they can do live. I was very apprehensive about seeing Glasvegas live, considering their music is so layered, textured, epic and swelling I was unsure how it would resonate live. Opening with "Flowers and Football Tops," Glasvegas right away showed what they were made of. Singer James Allen did not say much to the crowd, instead he let the music do the talking. Guitarist Rab Allen and bassist Paul Donoghue dashed around the stage as if they were in a punk band rather than a neo-new wave band. Drummer Caroline McKayas is the most unique drummer I have ever witnessed. She stands up and plays with just a floor Tom-Tom, Crash Symbol, Snare and Tambourine, she made a big beat with a small percussion set. With only one full length and a holiday EP behind them, Glasvegas would only play for 50 minutes but their small set would be memorable. Backed by a lighting design that would rival most stadium rock bands, blinding the audience in such a tiny place, it set an ambiance that would fit the bands music. Very dark lighting and strobes would be used to set to the tone of what they were trying to drive home to the New York crowd. They knew how to move the audience with crowd favorites such as "Geraldine," "Go Square Go," and "Daddy's Gone," the dark emotional songs would uplift the spirit of the attendees to new levels. In the end, what an amazing live band, what an amazing band. From sound to lighting to stage presents it proved that Glasvegas are ready to get out of the clubs and into the arena's.
For my interview with Glasvegas click HERE
