Primal Scream ignite Glasgow’s O2 Academy
Bobby Gillespie and Co. put on a show for their hometown show.
Photo: Isla Kerr
Of all the legendary bands to come from Scotland, Primal Scream are undoubtedly contenders for the top spot. Easily one of the most widely influential bands of the 90s, their music spans across rock, dance, indie, dub and electronica. It’s no surprise, then, that their two nights at Glasgow’s iconic O2 Academy were so fast to sell out.
Night two fell on a Saturday, and it was my turn to get a slice of the action. It took one look at the crowd to see just how wide the Scottish band’s appeal is. The only similarly styled outfits come in the form of red Screamadelica tops. Worn by fans of all ages, they depict the sunburst artwork found on the 1991 album cover (released via Creation Records). The distinctive design has taken on a life of its own since its release. Founder and owner of Creation Records, Alan McGee, once stated that the artwork became the “Primal Scream equivalent of The Rolling Stones’ famous lips and tongue logo”.
With their new album, Come Ahead, released in November last year, Bobby and co. have reimagined themselves again. They have a great mix of fresh and classic material to draw from and don’t shy away from either. Starting with the Screamadelica hit Don’t Fight It, Feel It was a grand choice and had the room in the mood for dancing from the start. Love Insurrection from Come Ahead followed before the impossible not to sing along to Jailbird.
During a short break, Bobby addressed the crowd: “You having a good time out there? It’s great to be back.” It was clear that all in attendance thought the same and had excitedly been waiting for the band’s return for the last few months.
Country Girl felt like a celebration of all the band has been and continues to be. Even up on the balcony, not a single person was seated as arms stretched to the ceiling in time with the music. Bobby took advantage of the attention and, instead of basking in cries of “Here we, here here we fucking go”, asked for complete and utter silence. While the excitement in the room prevented the full thing from being reached, what had seemed like a strange request was soon worth it as his voice cut through hushed rumblings. The music quickly built back up again, and the room once more lost itself within it.
An encore of three songs ended the night. Two of which were none other than massive hits Come Together and Rocks. The latter rounded things out all too soon as its lyrics were sung by all.
The years haven’t dimmed Primal Scream’s star power, and Bobby Gillespie doesn’t show signs of slowing down anytime soon. Few bands can stand the test of time as well as Primal Scream has. Their music has real meaning to so many, and its influence can be heard in the emerging bands and artists of today.
All photos by Isla Kerr.