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Dry Cleaning – Barrowlands, Glasgow – 17 Feb 2023

My third time seeing Dry Cleaning and one of my favourite bands just get better and better. I’ve not listened to new album ‘Stumpwork’ that much yet, but it’s growing on me and the wonderful ‘Gary Ashby’ might have been my top song of 2022! And what a brilliant set with the best new songs and the best of my favourite bangers from the past. Their confidence and different personalities really shine now. Superb playing and contrasting bouncing about from Tom and Lewis v Florence statue like with telling facial expressions only. I was right at the front so got…

Young Fathers – La Belle Angele, Edinburgh – 10 Feb 2023

Young Fathers are a significant force in modern music and I’m really proud of the international impact of three guys from Edinburgh. But I have always manged to just miss going to see them, ’til now. And to be honest their music has never been quite my cup of tea though I had heard they were amazing live. I can confirm that’s absolutely correct! This event was the album launch show for their new album ‘Heavy Heavy’ and though I enjoyed my sneak preview listens they didn’t major on those songs only and included plenty of past favourites. Much appreciated…

Pale Blue Eyes – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh – 8 Feb 2023

What a great night, gig of the year contender already! Just an amazing bill of cool bands. A sold out crowd got there especially early to catch young Edinburgh band No Windows who were very good and a name to watch out for. We had no expectations about next act Hector Gannet, but as soon as they started everyone commented how they were blown away by the tremendous sound so we could clearly hear such interesting songs played brilliantly. A lovely surprise. Pale Blue Eyes had a job to follow that, but succesfully took the good vibes even higher with…

The Musical Box – Usher Hall, Edinburgh – 3 Feb 2023

I know it’s a tribute act, but Andy and I had to go and see them play just about our favourite ever album, all 4 sides of ‘The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway’ by Genesis from 1975. I really enjoyed the whole experience. The Musical Box have been re-creating Genesis for nearly 30 years (not with the same line up) and have made a succesful career out of it. They licenced the ability to re-create the entire ‘Lamb ..’ tour including costumes and slide show and are supported and endorsed by Genesis members. They play, sing and act the whole…

The Cool Greenhouse – Harmonium, Edinburgh – 22 Jan 2023

A quirky but interesting band are The Cool Greenhouse. A key element is the witty spoken poetry lyrics of front-man Tom Greenhouse. Unfortunately the sound wasn’t good enough to enable me to hear many of those nice words which I thought defeated much of the pupose and pissed me off! I was much more entertained by the mad stylings and songs of support act Cod O’Donnell who I will definitely look out for more now. Cool small (very small) venue. Attended by George & Andy

The Joy Hotel – Mash House, Edinburgh – 21 Jan 2023

I’ve liked the ambitious songs and performances of The Joy Hotel since first seeing them at Great Eastern and also at Hidden Door festivals. My first time seeing them headline. Seems they are a bit polarising and ‘marmite’ though with my gig pals evenly split between like and dislike with no loves or even hates. I still think they are pretty good! Attended by George

The Postcards – The Bungalow, Paisley – 31 Dec 2022

Our last gig of 2022 and first of 2023 at The Bungalow in Paisley last night. It was an absolute blast to play 2 sets before and after midnight. Huge thanks to all those who came along, and danced & sang all night. Another sell out gig. And thanks to Unkle Remus for great support. 2022 was a fun year, thanks to all those who turned out to watch us from Arran to Glasgow to Edinburgh (and Paisley). Happy New Year and we’ll see you again sometime, somewhere.

The Postcards – Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh – 29 Dec 2022

A storming sell out gig at The Voodoo Rooms. Thanks to everyone that came along and made it a really special night for the band. Cheers to Jeremy Thoms for a great support set and for spinning the tunes before and after. We debuted Song 2 by Blur, and brought back a few old favourites. (Thanks to Julia and Ellen for pics)

Hanley & The Baird / Braw – Room 2, Glasgow- 23 Dec 2022

Driving Home for Christmas – thank you to Braw for inviting us through to perform at Room 2 tonight! Merry Christmas to you all from us all and we will see you in 2023

Sensational David Bowie Tribute Band – La Belle Angele, Edinburgh – 10 Dec 2022

Our now traditional Christmas Bowie fest with the sensational John and the gang. 2 sets of all the best of Bowie, with a few ‘oddities’ as well. The best Bowie tribute band by far. Love on ya! Attended by George & Karen

First Aid Kit – Academy, Glasgow – 28 Nov 2022

Only my 9th time seeing the wonderful First Ait Kit since that amazing first time at Sneaky Pete’s in 2010. They’ve come such a long way and gathered many new fans including Stuart who we were delighted to bring along and notice his non-stop beaming smile! I admit to not being blown away by their latest album, but live that doesn’t matter much and like the rest of the packed audience we were carried along on the joyous wave of love and beautiful harmonies. Attended by George, Karen and Stuart https://youtu.be/Zd4DgiwoSCg https://youtu.be/PzBUXi8eXl0

The Postcards – Whistlebinkies, Edinburgh – 27 Nov 2022

Another great night Whistlebinkies on Sunday. 24 songs and a lost voice. Cheers to everyone that came down, to Chris on the sound desk and the folk from Blackburn.

The Postcards – Whistlebinkies, Edinburgh – 20 Nov 2022

First gig for 2 months last night at the always wonderful Whistlebinkies. Cheers to Jeremy Thoms for the super band pic. We debuted 4 new songs ; A Forest and Boys Don’t Cry, Enola Gay and Felicity. Thanks to everyone who danced and came and said hello. Sorry to the guys asking us to play Teenage Kicks and Oasis. We’re not that kind of band!

Anaïs Mitchell – Newcastle University – 13 Nov 2022

I’d been waiting many years for a new original songs album from Anaïs and though her recent eponymous release is nice, I don’t think it reaches the heights of her incredible earlier works. Still, live is a different prospect, and with a solid band joining her, so it transpired. Such a beautiful singer, guitarist and person, always gracious and endearing. I sang along with the ones I knew well even though the set was dominated by songs from the new album. Such a varied career she has had including the musical ‘Hadestown’, ‘Child Ballads’ project and ‘supergroup’ Bonny Light Horseman,…

Hanley & The Baird + Aw Blacks – Queens Hall, Edinburgh – 12 Nov 2022

This was a very special occasion for me and all involved. This was the first time Kirsty Baird and Annette Hanley had presented a show designed to showcase songs featuring both the Hanley & The Baird band and also the amazing Sing In The City Aw Blacks choir (about 50/50). Well what a great idea, and it worked brilliantly with the choir providing spine tingling backing vocals to band songs and the band rocking out in support of the Aw Blacks amazing 4 part harmonies, medleys and dance moves. In such a beautiful, iconic venue too. An excited and appreciative…

Sorry – Stereo, Glasgow – 28 Oct 2022

I really love the music of Sorry but the pandemic interrupted seeing them since the first time at Sneaky Pete’s just before first lockdown. Asha and Louis have kept up creating great songs though, all on show tonight. Just magic! Attended by George https://youtu.be/_8PYHTXZDCk

Rosalie Cunningham – Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh – 24 Oct 2022

Bought tickets for this ages ago and was unfortunately re-arranged … worth waiting for though to see the brilliant Rosalie and her spectacular band again. Could write more, but the great review by John Scott on HiFi Pig below goes into super detail! Attended by George, Jan & Andy https://youtu.be/LUEjDo3MJ8c https://youtu.be/PHAO6_LBrUs

The Skids – La Belle Angele, Edinburgh – 23 Sept 2022

I’ve missed out on all the Skids and Big Country re-union tours of recent years, but succumbed to this one, and really glad I did. Richard Jobson is the only original member on show of the Skids and his support band The Armoury Show. But the bands are great and he carries it off perfectly with great energy, passion and humour. I sang along at the top of my voice, amazed I could still remember most of the words to my favourite Skids classics from 40 years ago! Attended by George https://youtu.be/e5UugQKA-E0

The Postcards – Bothwell Scarecrow Festival – 17 Sept 2022

We had a blast playing at Bothwell Scarecrow Festival yesterday. Our first outdoor show as part of a community fun day. Ta to everyone that came along and also to Stevie for looking after us. No soundcheck and a last minute set change! Pro as!

Blood Wizard – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh – 14 Sept 2022

I absolutely loved Kagoule, Cai Burn’s previous band. Since they sadly split he has changed direction slightly with his new project Blood Wizard. He has a very distinct songwriting style though so the songs and playing were fine by me and this show was very good. Will watch his developments with great interest. Attended by George & Andy https://youtu.be/XLPvkIkpcBU

The Postcards – Citation, Glasgow – 5 Sept 2022

A private party – good fun!

The Postcards & Dirty Harry – Liquid Rooms, Edinburgh – 21 Aug 2022

Such a fantastic audience in fine singing voice at THE LIQUID ROOMS (Official) on Sunday! We had a blast playing for you. Thanks to the brilliant Dirty Harry Edinburgh for being so kind to us and to all of you who helped and supported us. See you again soon. xx The Postcards (Thanks so much to Mark of Waysted Photography and Steve (shotbyagunn photography) for pics. Much appreciated.) https://youtu.be/0QJtsGGbs2E

James Yorkston – Summerhall, Edinburgh – 19 Aug 2022

I’ve enjoyed a bit of James music but not followed closely until I noticed this show with a stellar band including Phil Selway from Radiohead and especially Nina Persson from The Cardigans … just had to go, and very glad I did! Didn’t know many of the songs but that didn’t matter when the performances were so excellent. Would have liked more of Nina’s singing, but not really her show, so fair enough. Well done James, enjoyed that! Attended by George https://youtu.be/pS9K83C55Ys

The Sensational David Bowie Tribute Band – Merchant’s Hall, Edinburgh – 5 Aug 2022

Our annual Edinburgh Festival treat is an evening of fantastic Bowie at the gorgeous Merchant’s Hall with the sensational John and the gang. Two brilliant sets of all the hits by the best Bowie tribute band around (and we have seen many!). Such fun. Love on ya! Attended by George & Karen

Peter Hook & The Light – Barrowlands, Glasgow – 28 July 2022

A long but enjoyable day in Glasgow started with a special Q&A session with Hooky at guitarguitar just down the road from Barrowlands. Entertaining as always and heard some new funny anecdotes prompted by some interesting questions! A great character and a guy pretty influential in the lives of all his fans like me. Just along the road is the amazing Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre that I just had to visit after the beautiful music it inspired in Maeve Gilchrist (will see and say more in future). Then … see him again shortly after with quite a few more people in…

The Postcards – Whistlebinkies, Edinburgh – 23 July 2022

A great couple of sets at Whistlebinkies in Edinburgh on Sunday. Thanks to everyone that came down. And danced! And sang! Definitely our favourite Binkies gig so far.

Hanley & The Baird – Kings Live Lounge, Kirkcaldy – 22 July 2022

After Edinburgh … next stop Kirkcaldy! Thanks to all who attended and helped out especially Eve Davidson for being our special guest. Same set as Edinburgh worked even better. What a great crowd and a real party atmosphere. Can’t wait to get back to gig in Fife again. https://youtu.be/8Io-es20Qpw

Hanley & The Baird – Hive, Edinburgh – 15 July 2022

The first of a two gig East of Scotland ‘tour’ at Hive. Thanks to everyone who came out and Paul Gilbody for opening for us. One new original song ‘Motorway Song’ sounded great and two new covers in ‘From Now On’ and a belting encore version of ‘Atomic”. Really enjoyed that, cheers all!

Open Match – Magiscroft – 10 July 2022

A great days fishing catching lots of Ide, from a great peg 8 on the Island Pond. Just managed to pip Woody for the win which is an achievement I’m very chuffed about. what can I do to keep up my winning record at Magiscroft in 2022? I know … just don’t go back again. Record intact! https://www.facebook.com/Magiscroft/posts/pfbid0NirBbVVbt5QD3dourGgKn43GCJv3U4oyWgBBerWVRoCxf3XmukQwkhNQeUz9E6Yjl

The Postcards – Whistlebinkies, Edinburgh – 28 June 2022

We were back at Whistlebinkies last night for another double set. Three new songs debuted including the 12” version of “Don’t You Forget About Me”, and a very enjoyable “Disco 2000”. Thanks to all the people that came along and also to Michael on the sound desk at Binkies.

Sing In The City – Usher Hall, Edinburgh – 19 June 2022

What a great occasion to be part of the twice postponed SITC all choirs show we have all been preparing for up to 3 years! A privilege to play on such a big stage at such a famous venue with a great band and 350 enthusiastic and well coached singers who performed beautifully for us all. What a great laugh too, everyone excited but enjoying the whole unique experience. Also great to meet and hear the wonderful Kirsten Adamson singing one of her own lovely songs then a gorgeous rendition of her late father Stuart’s famous Big Country song ‘In…

Penelope Isles – Hidden Door, Edinburgh – 17 June 2022

This was the only night I could make of this great 2 weeks festival at the temporarily made music venue at the old Royal High school. An amazing building and a great effort turning it into a magical home for so much music, dance and also art exhibitions. Met up with Andy and Jude and wandered around. Stumbled across the very special Imogen Stirling in a downstairs basement performing spoken poetry from her book ‘Love The Sinner’. Very impressive and not surprised since I saw her last year. Watch out for her! Wandered along to the stunning Central Chamber to…

Jon Spencer & The Hitmakers – Broadcast, Glasgow – 12 June 2022

To cut a long story short, I booked to see Jon Spencer from USA only because my drumming hero Janet Weiss from Skeater-Kinney was in his band with Sam Coombes. Sam and Janet have a great two piece band Quasi who were going to play support. Magic, always wanted to see them. Shortly before their UK tour started it was announced that Quasi would not be supporting. Bummer. Oh well still see them in Jon’s band ‘The Hitmakers’. Arrived at Broadcast … left handed drum-kit on stage … no Janet, obviously missing the whole European tour. Dammit! Janet! Gutted. Putting…

The Postcards – Whistlebinkies, Edinburgh – 22 May 2022

Our 2nd show of the weekend at Whistlebinkies tonight. Loads of fun, and it was good to bring back Prefab Sprout’s Bonny into the set after a long absence. Tonight’s “first” was the emergence of line dancing, (to Sit Down by James) , never had that before! Cheers to all those that came down x

The Postcards – The Bungalow, Paisley – 21 May 2022

Back at The Bungalow in Paisley last night for an hour of 80s classics and an infiltrator from the 90’s. Thanks to all those who came down and hope you enjoyed the rest of the 80s club night!

The Postcards & These Smiths – The Bungalow, Paisley – 6 May 2022

Our second gig in a week was last night The Bungalow in Paisley. Great crowd and it was nice to be supporting These Smiths, good bunch of lads and a cracking band. Some tried and tested favourites for this one. See you again v.soon Paisley!

The Postcards – The Glad Cafe, Glasgow – 1 May 2022

Possibly our finest ever gig last night @thegladcafe in Glasgow. A young and not so young crowd were intent on singing and dancing their way through the set, the band were on such a high afterwards! Thanks to all that came along to support The Rise Collective, and also to Jim Mcculloch, Jeremy Thoms and Starry Skies for acoustic sets as well! Two songs made their debut as we stepped into the 90s with Gene’s ‘Olympian’ and Blur’s ‘Coffee & TV’. We added Common People and Ever Fallen In Love as encores.

The Valves – Wee Red Bar, Edinburgh – 23 April 2022

Always try to catch the rare Valves gigs, especially after covid layoff, so really enjoyed this one at The Wee Red Bar again. Great to hear the old, old tunes again and meet some old, old friends again ! Attended by George & Jan

Wet Leg – The Mash House, Edinburgh – 17 April 2022

Bought tickets immediately on sale knowing Wet Leg were just about to blow up massively and amazingly they stayed with the Mash House when they surely could have sold out a much bigger venue. And the small club environment was just perfect to experience the band at their joyous best. They are currently riding this ginormous wave of love and hype. The grind of touring and soaring profile might well change them but at the moment they seem to be still having a blast on stage. I’m sure they can’t believe the amazing reception they are getting but tonight was…

Maeve Gilchrist – George Watson’s, Edinburgh – 11 April 2022

I’ve been captivated by the mesmerising Celtic Harp playing of Maeve since hearing first then seeing her playing at two amazing concerts with Arooj Aftab. The fact she is from Edinburgh and had composed a special piece for the Edinburgh International Harp Festival … I just had to go. And what a special occasion and performance to close the festival with ’Sharmanka Suite (Death And The Polar Bear)’. Just stunningly beautiful music, led by Maeve’s Harp but with brilliant and sensitive contributions from Su-a Lee (Cello), Fergus McCreadie (Harmonium), Aidan O’Rourke (Fiddle) and Ruth Nelson (Viola). All to a video…

The Postcards – Whistlebinkies, Edinburgh – 10 April 2022

We had an absolute blast at @whistlebinkies on Sunday. Superb crowd from 18 to 80 who were a singing and a dancing. Apologies to the Irish ladies for refusing their request to play Gerry Cinnamon…wrong era!! Here’s the setlist next to George’s lovely Rickenbacker – HWTSE is “Here’s where the story ends” by The Sundays, making its debut in our set.

Midlake – Liquid Rooms, Edinburgh – 9 April 2022

Chris’s idea to see Midlake, a band I knew nothing about, but I liked videos of their new album after their long hiatus, and as expected they were very good. Laid back but varied Southern rock with inventive playing and melodies. Really liked the basslines from Jesse Chandler. Not my usual favourite style, but quality always impresses. Attended by George & Chris https://youtu.be/eTRxDtdN8ug

Aurora – SWG3, Glasgow – 29 March 2022

Aurora Asknes is a unique one off artist and I loved her first album and performances since I saw her superb show at the Art School in 2016. She has grown in popularity since but I’ve not been so moved by her subsequent albums which have lots of standard, modern pop apart from the odd brilliant song to remind just how special she can be. Still great to see her again and brought Mhairi along as a birthday treat! A packed in young crowd appreciated her every word and move and sang along faithfully and enthusiastically. A nice time had…

Hanley & The Baird – PJ Molloy’s, Dunfermline – 26 March 2022

Thanks for having us PJ Molloys and thanks guys for coming. #yourock 🤘🎸Really enjoyed that and a great set from Braw too. Shall we come back later in the year?

The Postcards – Pierhead Tavern, Lamlash, Arran – 19 March 2022

Back from our weekend trip to Arran and two gigs at The Pierhead Tavern. Thanks to everyone that came to watch us for the 2 electric sets on Saturday and an acoustic one on Sunday. We debuted the sublime Mary’s Prayer by Danny Wilson and had a fun and interesting weekend all round. It’s a safe bet to assume that it’s the first time the island has heard Joy Division and Jacques Brel on the same setlist…

CHVRCHES – O2 Academy, Edinburgh – 14 March 2022

Their latest album ‘Screen Violence’ was my favourite of 2021 and I just couldn’t wait to see them again live and even better than at The Hydro in those distant pre-covid days. Their latest songs have a more indie guitar rock edge to their retro electronica, a great combination with real imagination. The lyrical and visual horror movie theme is inspired. I had watched many live videos from their US tour so was well prepared for the show, knew the setlist and all the words too! And the re-vamped Corn Exchange actually had a good sound for a change. Took…

The Rocky Horror Picture Show – King’s Theatre, Edinburgh – 23 Feb 2022

Karen is such a Rocky Horror fan forever … we had to go to this new production and were not disappointed! A brilliant interpretation with super acting, singing, dancing, sets and spot on live band … what more could you ask for dammit! Janet! Audience loving it, dressed up, shouting all the old callouts and even had me up doing the Timewarp. Really enjoyed that. Attended by George & Karen https://youtu.be/hUqCdx-nGLA https://youtu.be/L3U3wh9-GJQ

Dry Cleaning – Summerhall, Edinburgh – 18 Feb 2022

I love Dry Cleaning so much and it’s tragic that it took over 2 years to see them again after my first time at Sneaky Pete’s just before the pandemic. That night I was already a fan and knew all the words, but they were just starting out and though Sneaky Pete’s was packed I worked my way right to the front where Florence was. Embarrassingly, whilst nodding away I got bumped and stumbled forward so much I nutted her music stand nearly sending all her word sheets flying! Two years later they are flying high after the success of…

The Chameleons – Liquid Rooms, Edinburgh – 11 Feb 2022

A late suggestion from Andy to go see The Chameleons who I knew nothing about, so I thought why not, and was really glad I tagged along. First up The Membranes who I did remember a bit from the early 80s. I enjoyed their simple post-punky thrashiness and you’ve got to love the attitude of frontman John Robb. The Chameleons are a much more melodic and inventive kettle of fish. Passed me by back in the 80s, but apparently they were highly regarded and influential and I can see why. Perfectly played and with a great sound. I was really…

Arooj Aftab – Mackintosh Church, Glasgow – 6 Feb 2022

I had a ticket for another show in Edinburgh this Sunday night so went to Liverpool on Saturday to see Arooj … but the Edinburgh gig was cancelled, so I jumped at the chance to experience such an amazing artist two nights in a row. And the gig moving to a bigger venue in the beautiful Mackintosh church, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh himself, was an opportunity too good to miss. So keen I was, I arrived early, getting front of the queue for a perfect seat in a church pew front and centre. Magic! Not only is the church…

Arooj Aftab – Leaf, Liverpool – 5 Feb 2022

I stumbled across the wonderful music of Arooj via my favourite source of new music, KEXP, see the video below. I was mesmerised and blown away, so I had to catch her UK tour. Originally from Pakistan, but long based in Brooklyn, her recordings and performances have just started getting worldwide attention and she is going to be a big name soon. Couldn’t originally manage her Glasgow date so decided to take the trip to a place I’ve never been, Liverpool ! Had a great time around town (including the Cavern Club obviously) then to the really cool, smallish venue…

Trip to Liverpool – 5 Feb 2022

To Liverpool to see Arooj Aftab. Andy advised me of some ‘must sees’ but No.1 was the famous Cavern Club and saw the real Complete Beatles who were brilliant for ones so very young. Really enjoyed the city and my short time there.

Hanley & The Baird – Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh – 4 Feb 2022

What a great night with such a happy and enthusiastic packed crowd. We all really enjoyed our night at the Voodoo Rooms ballroom in a real celebration atmosphere … the band’s first full on gig for over 2 years! Many thanks to : Kirsty, Annette and Kerry for having me join them on stage; brilliant support act The Laurettes; Elaine for all her hard working support, and to all at Sing In The City for making this such a special occasion. Also thanks to William Paterson for this magic video of ‘The Boys Of Summer’ and the takers of various…

The Big Light (feat. Mhairi Glen) – Medicine

https://youtu.be/E6CqD_zKNS0 Happy New Year all. So proud of my daughter Mhairi and her lovely singing on this, her version of Medicine by Daughter, to music and video by me with Jan. Just released into a more optimistic 2022! xG

The Postcards – Whistlebinkies, Edinburgh – 12 Dec 2021

Thanks to all at Whistlebinkies and a lovely enthusiastic audience last night. Back there on Wed 29th Dec. Don’t think any other band plays these songs or quite like us. But then again … we’re not like other bands! Special thanks and best wishes to Sophie and James who travelled all the way from York! Lovely to meet you. xx The Postcards Attended by George, Karen, Jan, Vina, Andy, Neville, Scott, Sophie, James https://youtu.be/bi83D5vRGp0

The Sensational David Bowie Tribute Band – La Belle Angele, Edinburgh – 4 Dec 2021

Such a long wait to see John and his wonderful band again. So worth it though for 2 great long sets of all our Bowie favourites which went down a storm as always. Love on ya! Attended by George, Karen & Jan

Great Eastern Festival – Edinburgh – 27 Nov 2021

A long day around 3 venues, but worth it all to catch some great new bands and end up with the highlight of the wonderful BC Camplight at the lovely Kings Hall. Started around 3pm with a snippet of Bikini Body in the Summerhall Gallery Bar, followed by the brilliant Deadletter. Deadletter were a real find and owned that room with cool tunes and great attitude. Will definitely see them again in Edinburgh … February I think. Over the road next for Field Music, clever and interesting. Back to Summerhall for pit stop pizza with Chris and more snippets of…

Lewsberg – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh – 15 Nov 2021

Just over 2 years since we first saw the fascinating Lewsberg from Rotterdam right here at Sneaky Pete’s. Their latest album is even more laid back and mellow and the set completely reflected that. Support band Order Of The Toad were really good and made a big impression … but this is the first time for ages I remember the headline band being deliberately quieter than the support! And they sounded just great without bashing our ears. Less rocky and more contemplative, with violin added to arrangements, but still unusual, understated and thought provoking. Very good indeed. Love them! Attended…

The Nightingales – The Caves, Edinburgh – 11 Nov 2021

I saw The Nightingales as support a few years ago and was impressed so the years of waiting and rescheduling were well worth it to experience a typically ferocious performance. A band with a long and storied history led by the illustrious Robert Lloyd. They wring a lot of variety and excitement out of a straightforward band setup, with songs twisting, turning and escalating. Not formulaic at all, though at odds with the standard formula described in the hilarious ‘Gales Doc’ song where Robert as the narrator describes The Nightingales creative process. Genius idea, brilliantly conceived and delivered. What a…

Do Nothing – Mash House, Edinburgh – 5 Nov 2021

I first saw Do Nothing getting on for 3 years ago supporting another great Nottingham band Kagoule. That was my favourite gig of 2019, both bands superb. So after a long Covid induced hiatus and a re-arranged date a few weeks ago (also due to Covid) Andy and I were most excited to see a band we’ve enjoyed listening to a lot recently. And Do Nothing did not let us down. As they say ‘The results are in, and it looks like everyone gets a big old slice of nothing’ … (in their earworm song ‘Le Bron James’)! The sardonic,…

Suede – Usher Hall, Edinburgh – 2 Nov 2021

Still got IT. Official! What a great show. A bit different from the magic set last time I saw them, this time the whole of their brilliant 3rd album ‘Coming Up’ and some bonus rarities as well as many more hits and favourites. Brett just as energetic, animated and vocally spot on as ever. Sound was big and beefy, which was nice, but poor definition in bass and guitar sounds was a bit disappointing. So much great playing going on from Richard and Matt .. but not cutting through the mix very clearly. Oh well. A lovely time still had…

Hanley & The Baird – Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh – 29 Oct 2021

Thanks to Douglas for inviting us to play two short sets at his party. My first chance to play a mix of original songs and dancey covers live with a great band. A fine time was had by all and the band is now off and running, more gigs coming your way soon! See more at https://www.facebook.com/hanleyandthebaird Attended by George, Karen & Jan https://youtu.be/07T0N4enSoo https://youtu.be/YXgC2wgbXJU

Fontaines DC – O2 Academy, Edinburgh – 22 Oct 2021

I like their music I’ve heard and the packed, explosive young crowd were mad for it … but as tight and well crafted their songs can be, I didn’t get much subtlety and melody coming over live. Maybe it got lost in the massive wall of noise and OTT euphoria of the crowd. I was left a bit underwhelmed. Attended by George, Andy, Douglas https://www.theskinny.co.uk/music/live-music/reviews/fontaines-dc-o2-academy-edinburgh-22-oct https://youtu.be/39DfRx7zILo

John – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh – 11 Oct 2021

John are John Newton (drums and vocals) and Johnny Healey (guitar), makes sense then! And their brutal, punky, thrashy, rifftastic noise blew our ears out, and we all loved it! Attended by George, Andy, Douglas https://youtu.be/JTnKPYnAjus https://youtu.be/vLS-qb2UbDQ

Laura Marling – Queens Hall, Edinburgh – 8 Oct 2021

Two nights in a row (long story) but great to see Laura in Edinburgh again (after last night in Glasgow) and especially with Davie. We’ve seen her 4 times together, some magical evenings I’ll always treasure. In fact this was my 12th Laura Marling gig now. She’s a bit special to me and to Davie! ‘Special’ in a different, and not so good way, was the fire alarm interrupting her 3rd song, and the evacuation that saw us 45 mins outside. She graciously did not cut her set much shorter when we returned and was on top form yet again. I’ve…

Laura Marling – SWG3, Glasgow – 7 Oct 2021

I never miss Laura when she comes to Scotland. And it was great to bring Chris along since he has just got into her music. Lucky man … I think he was just as entranced as I was. I prefer her solo performances to those with a band so for me this was yet again perfect. Highlight song for me was ‘Daisy’, a non-album song and never my favourite before, but this solo version perfectly showed off her superb playing, moving lyrics and beautiful singing. Stunning! I also hadn’t spent much time listening to her latest album ‘Song For Our…

Ane Brun – St Luke’s, Glasgow – 5 Oct 2021

Ane inspired me to get back into live music when I first discovered her beautiful songs and saw her first back in 2009. This was the 9th show of hers I’ve been to since! In times of pandemic I might have expected a more stripped back and simplified production, but far from it, this was big set, 6 piece band, new light show .. The works! Though I love Ane’s singing and older material, her latest albums haven’t really struck a chord, and she started the set with lots of her newer ‘adult pop’ style songs that don’t do much…

Sofar Sounds – Under The Arches, Edinburgh – 30 Sept 2021

As they put it – ‘Sofar Sounds is reimagining the live event experience through curated, intimate performances in 325 cities around the world.’ I had seen some videos from other cities and bought a ticket for the latest Edinburgh event … 18 months ago! So it was exciting finally getting along to what turned out to be a joyful, inspiring evening. In effect these are ‘secret’ gigs where you are not told the exact venue or who the performers will be until close to the time. Kind of pot luck, but always good artists. Under The Arches is a cool…

black midi – QMU, Glasgow – 27 Sept 2021

black midi can do no wrong as far as I’m concerned! I know their obtuse, complex approach and never settling musical direction winds some people up. But for me they succeed in a fine balancing act between ever changing chaotic noise, muscular rock, avant garde jazz, proggy psychedelia … and more. Even when I sometimes struggle to follow what the hell they are up to at any one time, I love that they do that to me and that’s all part of the magic! And a packed crowd of young gig goers, many with little idea about the band’s predecessors…

Steve Hackett – Playhouse, Edinburgh – 25 Sept 2021

I’m a big fan of (early) Genesis and I saw Steve play with them in this very venue way back in 1977 ! I had seen him twice in recent years, but the chance to see him reprise one of my favourite ever albums, the live Genesis double LP ‘Seconds Out’, was far too good to miss. And what an enjoyable trip down memory lane this was. With only one original band member this was never going to be as good as the real thing, but at least better (a bit) than a tribute band. And his band did a…

Rosalie Cunningham – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh – 20 Sept 2021

Over the moon to finally get back to the best place in the world for my first gig there since Feb 2020. And wow, wow, wow, what a fantastic show too from the wonderful Rosalie Cunningham and her amazing band! I had bought a ticket for this over 18 months ago and liked her recordings I had heard, but was not prepared to be as ‘blown away’ by such a marvellous set. What a joyous occasion for me and the lucky attendees including gig pals. First up though were two piece piano and drums combo Tuppenny Bunters. I’m a big…

Open Matches – Magiscroft – Aug/Sept 2021

Really enjoyed 3 Wednesday’s in a row on Magiscroft Island Pond. Great fishing, but more importantly great company and a lot of laughs. A first and two seconds with 51lb, 47lb and 41lb … a lot of fish, mainly Ide, but nearly all at 16m! Too old for that now … completely knackered, so time to give match fishing a bit of a rest ‘til next June! Cheers. https://www.facebook.com/128461963863028/posts/6192827920759705/ https://www.facebook.com/128461963863028/posts/6155222821186882/ https://www.facebook.com/128461963863028/posts/6119042588138239/

Crack Cloud – Bongo Club, Edinburgh – 1 Sept 2021

Crack Cloud from Vancouver played tiny Sneaky Pete’s in May 2019, and everyone raved about how amazing they were. So after an enforced long layoff it made sense for Nick to book them back at a larger room at the Bongo Club. Unfortunately the club being less than half full was pretty disappointing and I’m sure a reflection of peoples Covid reticence rather than the quality of the band. 4 members of Crack Cloud took the stage as their own support band ‘Military Genius’! Laid back and low key, nice, but the intensity trebled when the rest of the…

The Postcards / Dirty Harry – Liquid Rooms, Edinburgh – 29 Aug 2021

Live music (with me on the stage) is back! Loved our first gig for exactly 18 months at Liquid Rooms on Sunday. What a fantastic night. Really enjoyed playing for you as guests of the fantastic Dirty Harry, thank you so much and well played. And thanks to Tom Thorburn for his great video too. xx The Postcards

Black Country, New Road – EIF Lochside, Edinburgh – 23 Aug 2021

So excited for my very first gig since March 2020! And though I was stoked to see London’s BCNR, a band whose star is rising fast and I had grown to be very impressed by, this was a very odd situation and venue for a gig. The Edinburgh Festival EIF Lochside ‘tent’ at the Gyle was designed especially for socially distanced shows given restrictions. This meant large spaces between seated groups and therefore a relatively sparse ‘crowd’ in such a large space. An eerie and cold atmosphere did not make for any great element of audience engagement or participation ……

A Gig (at last) – 29 Aug 21 – Liquid Rooms

It’s ON! A real live gig at last! Can’t wait for The Postcards to open for our friends the fantastic Dirty Harry Edinburgh at Liquid Rooms on Sun 29 Aug. Love to see you there! Tickets at https://tickets-scotland.com//events.html?event_method=viewevent&event_id=e9bb492e-df19-11eb-a89f-0295bec18d9c https://www.facebook.com/events/349283646788541/

Open Matches – Partridge Lakes, Warrington – 10/11 July 2021

Have to thank my friends Davie and Woody and all at the lovely Partridge Lakes Fishery (especially Nelly for drawing me good pegs!) for a great weekend away and a very enjoyable win on Sunday … after Woody won the match on Saturday! I waited to the last possible time before booking my match tickets on-line sitting in the Roseburn Bar over a pint with Karen, and was lucky enough to get the very last ticket of the 65 for the Sunday match. A good omen it turned out to be! On Saturday Nelly drew me a really good peg…

Daiwa Pole Masters – Tunnel Barn Farm – 21/23 June 2021

Really enjoyed my first Daiwa Masters 3 day match festival at Tunnel Barn. Didn’t know much about the venue and it wasn’t fishing as well as usual. But a great 5 days away with all my pals. Saturday evening joined a brilliant coaching session with Matty Dawes on High 15 which he had just won the match from and that was really enlightening. Sunday open I drew Jennys 11 which was really poor. First festival day I drew another poor one on Top 11 for 4th in my 5 peg section. 2nd day on High 48, which is a good…

A Few Updates!

Finally, got a few new musical things to blog about! Been busy recently tracking ‘rock’ guitars, bass and drums on 3 songs for Brian Devlin. Finished now and can’t wait to hear how all his songs turn out post-production. Also got together in the same room in my studio with my fellow The Postcards guitarists Dave and Chris to work through 8 (yes eight) new cover song ideas. Sounded ace and next step is rehearsal studio in June before bringing them live to a cinema near you asap! Real loud rehearsal in a rehearsal studio last Sunday is biggest news,…

Half Formed Things – Live from Leith Theatre

With no gigs on the horizon yet it’s great to hear from the wonderful Half Formed Things again. Brilliant video and can’t wait to see them again asap. https://youtu.be/X–P_APZpJ8

The Big Light – Love Interruption

We love this song by Jack White so much, we though we’d record it (in the style of First Aid Kit) … so we did! Enjoy!

All I Need

georgeglen · All I Need Love this Radiohead song so much I had to record my own version – dedicated to Karen xx.

Pump It Up

georgeglen · Pump It Up Really enjoyed a bit of remote recording and mixing with Chris Thomas (but not Bruce Thomas and Pete Thomas too unfortunately!). Just a bit of fun, but we like it a lot!

Looking At Me, Looking At You

I’m really happy to be involved in a small way with the wonderful Sing In The City organisation. Even though Covid has has a big impact, the music goes on! Hanley & The Baird is the band formed by SITC Musical Directors Kirsty Baird and Annette Hanley to support the choirs and ‘Looking At Me, Looking At You’ is their great new single. Available on all good platforms … listen, and most importantly BUY it now! And follow Hanley & The Baird on Facebook 😉

Skin (The Big Light Remix)

With gigs and recording face to face with people out of the window for the time being, I spent some time having fun remixing (with Jan as Executive Producer!). We have really enjoyed transforming this great track ‘Skin’ by Man of Moon from Rock to Electronic Dance. Thanks Chris & Michael. Not our usual style, more Donna Summer meets The Chemical Brothers! Enjoy J&G xx

EXTC – The Victoria, Swindon – 10 March 2020

Can be a potentially dodgy thing when a long gone and cherished band makes some kind of come back, especially with few original members (in this case 1), but this isn’t at all the same and it turned out magnificently! Original XTC drumer Terry Chambers reunited with bassist Colin Moulding for their wonderful TC&I recording and shows in 2017. I was there! Since Colin stepped back from playing, this EXTC project is Terry carrying on with Steve Tilling and Gary Bamford from those shows, reviving songs from XTCs extensive catalogue rather than mainly Colin’s songs. Since XTC stopped performing in…

The Postcards – Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh – 29 Feb 2020

What a great night at Alan’s party. Thanks for having us and we had a blast just like everyone else seemed to. The birthday boy even got up to play guitar on Spring Rain by The Go-Betweens! Thanks to various people for pics and vids, not sure who’s, sorry! https://youtu.be/oZMT2ccqK4Q https://youtu.be/k3UaJVFGYx0

Sleater-Kinney – Barrowland, Glasgow – 28 Feb 2020

I think I must have died and gone to heaven! Gig of the century for me? I think so, at least equal! Having just seen my favourite band in the world at a great show in Amsterdam last week how could they top that? Maybe 2 reasons – This was the second last show of the their entire 6 months (with breaks) of ‘The Center Won’t Hold’ tour, and having fun, they threw the kitchen sink at us with 27 songs over nearly 2 hours covering their extensive career. Secondly, Barrowland is bigger than Paradiso and hey it’s Glasgow. So…

Sleater-Kinney – Paradiso, Amsterdam – 19 Feb 2020

I LOVE Sleater-Kinney so much, but it’s baffling that I never managed to see them live until tonight. Sorted! Still magnificent. I bopped along and sang all the words ’til I was sweaty and hoarse … magic. After a tour break Carrie and Corin seemed really up for this and appeared to enjoy it nearly as much as I and a packed Paradiso did. The level of smiling and grinning all round was a pleasure to see. I always wanted to go to this iconic venue too and was not disappointed. I’m still gutted that Janet Weiss has left the…

Amsterdam Holiday – 18 Feb 2020

I ‘needed’ to get to see Sleater-Kinney and this was all the excuse required to organise a few days with Karen in lovely Amsterdam taking in the gig at the iconic Paradiso. What a great city. So much fun. Will definitely go back!

black midi – Liquid Room, Edinburgh – 17 Feb 2020

Only last October since I last saw black midi, and this set couldn’t have been much more different. Only 6 songs from their album ‘Schlagenheim’ … crowd pleasers like ‘bmbmbm’ left out and guitarist Matt replaced (temporarily I think) by sax and keys players. The rest of the set was so jazz and jazz/rock I know many people were flummoxed and unhappy with their new musical marmite. A band not afraid to experiment and move on … quickly! Well I loved it all. I’m completely happy with the jazzy direction and their playing, and Geordie’s singing, is so magnificent they…

Dry Cleaning – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh – 13 Feb 2020

Spoken lyrics are a thing now apparently, and a very good thing delivered by Florence over catchy guitar riffs from London’s Dry Cleaning. I’ve listened to them a lot recently so I could follow what she was on about, though even stood right in front the sound was dominated by guitar and unfortunately couldn’t hear her all that clearly. The only downside to a great night. Attended by George https://youtu.be/XUSi_azuD0s

Sorry – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh – 9 Feb 2020

I have listened to the music of Sorry a lot recently, great stuff and knowing the words from a new band made such a brilliant show more enjoyable! Led by Asha Lorenz and Louis O’Bryen from London, Sorry have a varied style recorded but sound more straightforward and powerful live, less jazzy, more rocky, but with the clever songs, intelligent intertwining instrumentation and twisted lyrics that make them a bit unusual … and special! A packed sold out Sneaky Pete’s was also well appreciative and what a great set they got, all the songs I’ve grown to like and some…

The Big Light – The Empress, Edinburgh – 6 Feb 2020

A lovely evening at The Empress with so many friends and colleagues too! Cheers.

Half Formed Things – Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh – 1 Feb 2020

Half Formed Things are a special group, dear to the hearts of Karen and me, and it seems a growing number of others too from the great level of warmth and appreciation in a packed ballroom! This time back to a 3 piece following Nici’s return to Oz, but they seem just as good as ever this way helped by fine sound and light show. They also keep evolving and improving with a number of new songs. Those performed solo by Matthew and Morgan were very good, but it’s when they sing together that the magic happens most … a…

Anaïs Mitchell – Old Fruitmarket, Glasgow – 29 Jan 2020

I never miss my favourite singer/songwriter Anaïs when she comes to Scotland nowadays. This time supported by her new ‘folk supergroup’ Bonny Light Horseman. So this was the first time I had seen her perform with a full band, which was cool! The show started with a set from Bonny Light Horseman led by Anaïs, Eric D. Johnson (from the band Fruit Bats) and multi-instrumentalist Josh Kaufman. I haven’t really been impressed by the re-vamped old folk songs on their album (a bit dull for my taste), but it’s a more enjoyable experience live, particularly the guitar playing of Josh…

The Postcards – The Glad Café, Glasgow – 17 Jan 2020

We’d like to thank everyone who helped us raise so much for The Glad Cafe and Music Glue. What a fun evening for such great causes. Jim Mcculloch and John Alexander led the way with some lovely songs, much appreciated. And Duglas T. Stewart joined us for a rousing rendition of ‘Museum of Love’ by Daniel Johnston. Thanks also to Frank Duffy for curating tunes and all the staff at Glad Café. https://youtu.be/ohCMRyaVWeM https://youtu.be/TKEnv0fG8x0

The Big Light – Milk And Honey, Edinburgh – 15 Jan 2020

Thanks to host Phil Ramsay and all those who came along on the night. First gig for ages and we had great fun at a really nice venue.

The Postcards – Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh – 11 Jan 2020

We had such a blast at the Voodoo Rooms on Saturday opening up for the amazing Bowie Blinders. Thanks to everyone who helped make such a great night for such a brilliant crowd. Love on ya! 😘

The Postcards – Whistlebinkies, Edinburgh – 2 Jan 2020

Many thanks again to the management and staff of Whistlebinkies for hosting us and to all who joined in with us so enthusiastically on a fun filled, festive Thursday evening. Also pleased to see so many ‘new’ songs go down so well. What a brilliant venue, will be back there very soon. Happy New Year All ! xx The Postcards 😘

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