NATHAN EVANS & SAINT PHNX BAND // SWG3, GLASGOW
NATHAN EVANS & SAINT PHNX BAND PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S SWG3
★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
NATHAN EVANS & SAINT PHNX BAND PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S SWG3
PHOTOCREDIT: JAMES EDMOND
SWG3 was filled to capacity for a sold-out show featuring Nathan Evans and SAINT PHNX, who now perform together as a trio, with support from rising Scottish singer-songwriter Kirsteen. The night was a celebration of both local talent and the unique blend of folk, pop, and rock that Evans and SAINT PHNX have come to embody. The energy in the venue was palpable from the moment the doors opened, with the Glasgow crowd ready for an unforgettable night of music.
Kirsteen took the stage first, and her performance immediately set the tone for what would be a memorable evening. The young singer-songwriter, known for her ethereal voice and soulful, introspective lyrics, delivered a powerful set that captivated the audience. Her blend of indie-folk and pop, paired with her raw, emotive vocal delivery, made her the perfect opener for the night.
Performing tracks like “Colours” and “Run,” Kirsteen showcased her ability to convey deep emotion with minimal instrumentation, allowing her voice and lyrics to take centre stage. Her stage presence was understated yet compelling, and by the time she finished her set, she had clearly won over many new fans. There was a hushed reverence in the crowd, a sign of respect for the talent they were witnessing.
As the lights dimmed for the main act, the crowd erupted in anticipation. Nathan Evans and SAINT PHNX have now joined forces as a trio, and their chemistry on stage was undeniable. What could have seemed like an unexpected collaboration has turned into a dynamic partnership, combining the anthemic rock energy of SAINT PHNX with Evans’ folk-pop roots.
Performing a high-energy rendition of “Shake,” the trio had the crowd hooked. SAINT PHNX’s brothers, Stevie and Alan Jukes, brought their trademark intensity and anthemic sound, while Evans’ folk-inspired vocals added a unique texture to the mix. The fusion of styles worked brilliantly, with the trio effortlessly switching between Evans’ viral sea shanties and SAINT PHNX’s emotive, stadium-ready tracks.
The performance of “Wellerman” was, of course, a massive highlight. The crowd needed no encouragement to join in, turning SWG3 into a massive sing-along. The song that made Evans a global sensation felt even more powerful live, as SAINT PHNX added their own spin with rich harmonies and driving percussion, making it feel like a shared experience between the band and the audience.
Beyond the viral hits, the trio also showcased new material, blending the best of both worlds—SAINT PHNX’s rock-infused melodies with Evans’ folk storytelling. Songs like “Told You So” and “Happy Place” brought out the best in both styles, creating a fresh, exciting sound that had the audience dancing and singing along.
One of the standout aspects of the night was the trio’s genuine connection with the Glasgow crowd. Evans and SAINT PHNX both took time between songs to talk to the audience, sharing stories of their journey, from Evans’ viral rise to the brothers’ deep pride in their Scottish roots. Their camaraderie and shared sense of humour made the night feel intimate, despite the sold-out crowd.
The energy was contagious, with the audience feeding off the enthusiasm of the performers. The synergy between the three musicians was clear, with each member contributing something unique to the performance. Whether it was Evans’ folk charm, Stevie Jukes’ powerful vocals, or Alan Jukes’ driving beats, the trio worked together seamlessly to create a performance that was greater than the sum of its parts.
The visuals and lighting added to the experience, with dynamic effects that matched the shifts in the music—from the high-energy anthems to the more introspective, slower numbers. The intimacy of SWG3 allowed the trio to connect with the audience on a personal level, making the night feel like a true celebration of homegrown talent.
The collaboration between Nathan Evans and SAINT PHNX has proven to be a winning formula, blending the best of folk, pop, and rock in a way that feels both fresh and exciting. With Kirsteen delivering an impressive opening set, and the trio providing a high-energy, engaging performance, this sold-out show at SWG3 was a triumph for Scottish music. The crowd left the venue buzzing, having witnessed not only the rise of an exciting new musical partnership but also the power of collaboration and shared artistry.
Nathan Evans and SAINT PHNX have created something truly special together, and if this performance is anything to go by, it’s clear that they have a bright future ahead of them as a trio. This night was more than just a gig—it was a celebration of the incredible talent coming out of Scotland right now, and the audience was lucky to be part of it.