GOLDIE LOOKIN’ CHAIN LIVE AT GLASGOW’S SAINT LUKE’S

★★★☆☆ (3/5)

**GOLDIE LOOKIN' CHAIN PERFORMING AT GLASGOW'S SAINT LUKE'S**
**PHOTOCREDIT: PAUL STORR**

Goldie Lookin’ Chain, the legendary parody hip-hop group from Wales, were set to bring their signature blend of comedy and beats to Glasgow’s St Luke’s venue as part of their 2024 tour. For those unfamiliar with GLC, think of them as the ultimate mockery of bling culture, but with tracks that are so hilariously on point that you'll forget they're even joking. Known for their deadpan humor, outlandish tracks like "Guns Don't Kill People, Rappers Do," and a look that screams "budget gold chains from eBay," the group has made a name for themselves by poking fun at hip-hop stereotypes.

When announcing their 2024 20th anniversary tour of their debut album ‘Greatest Hits’, it was clear that the night was going to be a colourful and cheeky celebration of how made their name. Attendees of the sold out show would have been wise to brace themselves for a night of laughter, questionable fashion choices, and bangers that sound as good as they are ridiculous. Imagine a room full of people throwing up hand signs in time to lines like, "You knows it!" while singing along with some of the silliest lyrics known to man. It’s basically an ironic ode to an era where bling was king, but with a hilarious Welsh twist and lot of profanity.

But don’t be fooled by the fun and games. Underneath the humor, GLC has always had clever social commentary. Whether they’re rapping about the dangers of video games, drugs, or poking fun at politicians, there’s always an element of truth wrapped up in the absurdity. It’s this balance of humor and reality that keeps them relevant, even in 2024.

GLC's appeal lies in their ability to satirize the excesses of hip-hop culture, but with genuine affection. They're not trying to bring anyone down—they're just having a good time, and they want you to join in. The tour a blend of nostalgia and fresh material, so whether you were a fan back in the early 2000s or you're new to the GLC phenomenon, they tried to include something for you.

If you're wondering what was worn to this iconic event, its simple: the tackier, the better. Goldie Lookin Chain gigs are not just concerts; they're a full experience. The crowd donning oversized fake jewelry, caps that are too big for your head, and maybe even a medallion or two. If you’ve got a tracksuit that looks like it belongs on a '90s soap opera character, this was time to bust it out. Bonus points if you bring a Tesco bag and pretend it’s your handbag for the night.

This is a group that doesn’t take itself seriously, and their shows reflect that. On-stage banter, references to obscure pop culture, and crowd interaction began as soon as the seven members bounced on to the stage. It was not all laughs though, as the start of begun with chaos. The initial few song of the set were a mess, with the seven members on stage all moving out of sync and seemingly tripping up over the words and beats. At one point the group start about the high end shop Waitrose – many a bit far of stretch for their fans in this economy. After this group launch into their Vanilla Ice spoof ‘Ice, Ice Dildo.’ The GLC are a lot to take in and maybe initially it was all a bit much for everyone involved.

The ensemble found their feet as the set continued and with beloved tracks like ‘Soap Bar’ and even their latest works clearly were a big hit with the crowd. The interaction with their fans is on point as they spend every minute working the room and engaging with the mass of sweaty movers. The fantastic setting of the converted church makes this heinous gig all the more devilish. With each track the group get into their groove and are on fire as they run to close with ‘Guns Don’t Kill People’ and the fans looks a blurry eyed ramble. The night is finished with a hard-style version of ‘Your Missus is a Nutter’ and the Dirty Dancing classic ‘(I've Had) The Time of My Life.’

So, if you're around when the GLC tour rolls through, be sure to grab a ticket. It’s going to be a night of satire, catchy tunes, and a lot of laughs. After all, as the Chain would say, "It’s all about the gold, innit?"