ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS... TRNSMT FESTIVAL 2024 - FRIDAY // GLASGOW GREEN, GLASGOW

ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS…
TRNSMT FESTIVAL, RETURNS WITH
‘LIAM GALLAGHER’ HEADLINING DAY ONE

★★★☆☆ (3.5/5)

LIAM GALLAGHER HEADLINING ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… TRNSMT FESTIVAL 2024.
PHOTOCREDIT: CALUM BUCHAN

The first day of TRNSMT 2024 kicked off with a bang as eager festival-goers flocked to Glasgow Green from early in the morning. Under a cloudless sky and brilliant sunshine, the excitement was palpable as the gates opened, and fans streamed in, ready to experience the best of live music. The hottest and brightest day of the festival set the perfect stage for a memorable start, with the crowds growing steadily throughout the day, creating an electric atmosphere that promised an unforgettable weekend ahead.

Irish pop-rock band Picture This brought a mix of energy and emotion to the main stage at TRNSMT Festival, winning over the crowd with their catchy anthems and heartfelt lyrics. Known for their polished sound and relatable songs, the band delivered a performance that was both uplifting and deeply engaging.

From the opening notes of “Take My Hand,” it was clear that Picture This had a dedicated fan base in attendance. The song’s upbeat tempo and anthemic chorus set the perfect tone for their set, and the crowd responded with enthusiastic singing and dancing. The band’s infectious energy was evident from the start and only grew stronger as the performance progressed.

Their setlist featured a well-balanced mix of hits and newer tracks. Songs like “One Drink” and “If You Wanna Be Loved” showcased their knack for crafting memorable pop hooks, while slower, more introspective numbers like “Everything or Nothing” demonstrated their ability to connect on an emotional level. Throughout, the band’s tight musicianship and Ryan Hennessy’s distinctive vocals were impressive.

Hennessy proved to be a charismatic frontman, effortlessly engaging with the audience. His genuine interactions, sharing personal stories and expressing gratitude, added a warm, personal touch to the performance. The rapport he built with the crowd highlighted the band’s authenticity and relatability.

A standout moment was their performance of “Modern Love.” The song’s catchy beat and joyful vibe had everyone dancing and singing along, creating a festival-wide party atmosphere. This track, in particular, exemplified Picture This’s ability to blend pop appeal with rock energy, making their music both accessible and exciting.

Ben Walker, a 20-year-old singer-songwriter from the North East of Scotland, emerged onto the music scene in late 2021. From performing in a grain shed during lockdown live streams with one the family farms cows, he has swiftly grown in popularity. Supporting artists like Rianne Downey, Nathan Evans, Spyres, Callum Bowie, and recently The View on their Scottish tour in December, Walker has showcased his versatility and talent.

In 2023, Ben earned recognition on Tenement TV’s top tracks list and Amazing Radio’s 'Ones to Watch for 2024'. Boasting infectious enthusiasm, he’s cultivated a diverse fanbase across the UK. Notably, Ben has just sold out Glasgow’s King Tut’s in January 2024 and has a headline tour of Scotland, including a show at St Luke’s in Glasgow later in the year. We had some time with Ben before his performance on the River Stage. 

Hi Ben, it’s great to have you here at TRNSMT! How are you feeling about your performance today?

I'm feeling really good. I actually didn't think I'd be feeling this good. I hope it stays this way. I think in my head I've worked so hard in the past couple of years that I'm just ready to enjoy the moment. I can't wait to, you know, played so many times to nobody. I played to half full rooms, full rooms, and it's just kind of one of those ones where it's up the top, isn't it? You really want this gig. So the fact I'm here within three years of playing my first live gigs just immense and I'm super looking forward to it.

Especially being Scottish?

Yeah, absolutely. Especially living as north as I am as well. Like, you never see anyone kind of north, you never see anyone from Dundee. I mean, other than the, the obvious, the view and like, it just, it's super nice to be from that neck of the woods and kind of show folk. There's a lot of people from home that are now picking up guitars and instruments. 'cause they see that inspiration, which is crazy 'cause I, I don't see it personally. <laugh>. But you never do, do you?

You’ve come a long way since performing on the farm during lockdown. Can you tell us more about that journey?

Of course. So, through the end of school, I always wanted to be a pilot or work on the farm. That was my thing. My friend's mum convinced me into going air cadets when I was younger. And that was like, I was fixated on it from the word go. And then I was like, right, maybe wanna stay on the farm. And then towards the end of school - the last couple of weeks, there was a girl in my class that was like, I want to be a singer. And I was like, oh, we can actually do that. She's like, yeah, I've got this manager. So I, I eventually was just like, do you know what I'm gonna, I'm gonna try my hand at it. It's a perfect time. 

I think it's crazy. You need to know what you want to do at 17 and you changed so fast that like, even now, that's three or four different things I've wanted to be, so yeah, I just kind of threw myself into it. Decided that I was gonna go to uni and kind of just turned up <laugh> and was just so focused on getting back on the stage. And I think, I guess the farm's just an awesome vehicle. It's different, isn't it? There's lots of blonde haired, blue-eyed dudes with acoustic guitars singing in their bedrooms. You know, talent's one thing, but just getting something a bit different. And so I guess just using what's in my back garden literally just, just helped. And it was crazy. I was putting all this effort into recording these videos using nice microphones and different techniques and it was getting nothing on TikTok. And then you just stand in a grain shed with a cow and all of a sudden everyone cares. So yeah, just use, use what you've got, isn't it? But yeah, it feels, it feels crazy to actually get to play gigs now and not just playing a chorus to your iPhone. I guess it's how it is now, isn't it? 

Supporting artists like Rianne Downey, Nathan Evans, and The View must have been incredible. How have these experiences influenced your music?

I've been incredibly fortunate to meet these people. And I guess the really like cool part is getting to talk to these folk and see what niggles them every day, knowing that they have problems with their voice and knowing that they get a little bit anxious after gigs. That's when I get anxious. It's not ever before. It's always after the kind of the come down of adrenaline and just knowing it all went okay and everyone enjoyed it. So, yeah, the getting to talk to these guys is a huge inspiration and seeing how they handle and overcome these sort of issues is awesome. Invaluable, I guess would be the word. 

Just seeing someone warm up, I mean, it's always cool. It's like when you're in school and we’re made to do dancing. No one ever wants to dance first, but then all of a sudden everyone's dancing because one person did it first. So just seeing someone actually take themselves off and do a warmup or take themselves off for a bit of quiet time rather than try to be involved with everyone and just being focused. It's great. Yeah, it's invaluable just sitting with these pros and watching.

In 2023, you earned recognition on Tenement TV’s top tracks list and Amazing Radio’s 'Ones to Watch for 2024'. How did that feel?

It's pretty crazy. I couldn't believe it, I used to singing in our grain shed and I'm used to, you know, my mum, dad, my dog, just having to put up with it. So yeah, to get that moment was a lovely bit of recognition. I think the main thing is as well is just seeing folks sing your songs that support online is invaluable. Especially from media outlets such as you guys today. They (fans) were posting about my performance just before I came in here. It's just awesome to have that support.

What has been your favourite part of preparing for today’s set at TRNSMT?

I think seeing the whole thing come together. Knowing like in the back of my head where I was when I wrote all these songs and just all the string of experiences coming together in one moment and then just being like, right, I get to go out on stage for half an hour with some of my best friends and experience something that a lot of people would, you know, chew your left leg off for. That's the biggest thing, you know, my mom, dad and family, jack here, my band, they've been through hell on Earth for the past couple of years, so it's good. I'm really looking forward to just doing it together.

Which song do you think will resonate most with the TRNSMT audience today and why?

Probably just a boy. I mean, I wrote that song when I moved back from university. I was pretty badly bullied when I was a kid, so was everyone. Not a competition, right? But I try not labor that point too much. I came home eight years later after the whole altercations kicked off and these guys walked back at the bar and I wrote this song as a result of how I was feeling when I was at the time. I've always been interested in playing guitars, in stages and lights. It wasn't cool to do that in school. And that was kind of, for me, the real kind of resonant part of like, everyone's been told they can't do something in their life. Everyone's been told that that's not possible. And playing TRNSMT was never even on the horizons. Far less playing like King Tuts and then to, to kind of smash those, it is great, but then set new goals, i find other kind of mad wild ideas. So yeah, for me just a boy would be the one because, you know, I did just have a little dream and I just stuck to it and somehow of, I'm in a  tent talking to you guys before performing at TRNSMT!

Can you share a memorable moment from your career that has influenced your music?

Probably standing on stage at the Caird Hall. I'm from Dundee or I would say I'm from the sticks in between Aberdeen and Dundee, but I was born in Dundee. It's kind of what I would consider to be the closest to home. My mom and dad both were on that stage. It feels very American, but they graduated on that stage. And so it was quite nice to have my whole family, everyone that I care about, all in that room and singing songs that I thought were silly things or ones that was a no, I need to believe in myself now moment. That was when I didn't know what I was doing or when I thought I knew what I was doing. One of those moments. So yeah, Caird Hall in Dundee supporting The View in December would've been my most memorable moment ever and after the concert, I done a charity gig and there was a few school kids that said that my advice to them for resilience and overcoming their fears really resonated with them. And I've seen them physically shake to try and talk to me and I thought was ridiculous. <laugh>, it's me, I don't bite. But that, that was the effect I had on them. And it just shows that there's a bigger purpose than just myself.

What message do you hope to convey through your music?

Well, I don't know. There's many different things and I'm trying to think of what's a good thing to say here. <laugh>. Just putting yourself behind other folk and putting other folk in front of you and saying, it's okay to feel anxious or to feel scared, but you know, have a plan and, and really think about how you're gonna overcome these problems and just like knowing that you're not alone, knowing that everyone else feels that way as well, you know? I don't know how to put it into words. I never wanted anyone to take anything from my music. I love knowing that folk take different things from it and then hearing these different takes. I know how I want myself to feel with my songs, but seeing like someone else take something completely different from that song is just magical. It feels like superhero powers. 

What’s next for you after TRNSMT? Any upcoming projects or tours?

So I'm going to Spain tomorrow back writing with Kyle Falconer and Ellie, who's actually playing here tomorrow. So we're going out to Spain for a few days, doing a bit of writing with them and then back home. There's some support slots that everyone will see next week. I'm sorry I can't talk about them just now. It's one of those ones. But I'm super, super excited for 'em and I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity. And then after that it's why not festival and then it's September, which we really can't talk about, but <laugh>, it's gonna be great. I'm probably not the first or last person to say it, but big things are coming soon. It's been said by every indie band ever, but I'm gonna say it again. There's the big things coming soon.

Is there anything else you’d like to share today?

I don't think there is, there's nothing to share. I'm always leaking stuff online <laugh>, to be honest, I should probably stop sharing things, but i wont <laugh>. Thank you to everyone that's from home and everyone that's seeing me for the first time. You know, I had a text message from someone that's saying that they've been following me and my journey from when I had 200 followers and it's been a crazy time. Thanks for listening. Thanks for humoring me because you've made me, deep down, you've made a 14-year-old dude, very happy. Yeah, no, thank you.

Thanks so much for chatting with us, Ben. Best of luck with your performance today!

Don't be silly. Thank you for taking the time. Cheers.

At TRNSMT Festival 2024, Ben Walker delivered an electrifying performance that left the crowd spellbound. His soulful melodies and dynamic stage presence were a testament to his musical prowess. With each song, Walker managed to strike a chord with the audience, creating a memorable atmosphere that lingered long after his set ended. As predicted by ‘Ben himself during his interview, his performance of ‘Just a Boy’ resonated with the crowd and fans who know him were clearly moved by the inclusion of this on his set list. His ability to connect with fans through his heartfelt lyrics and captivating energy made his performance a standout moment of the first day of the festival.

Amidst the vibrant energy of TRNSMT Festival 2024, Tallia Storm took the River Stage by storm, delivering an electrifying performance that captivated the audience from start to finish. Known for her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, Tallia did not disappoint. 

Talliah kicked off her set with a high-energy rendition of her hit single "Social Security," immediately engaging the crowd. Her voice was in top form, effortlessly hitting high notes and carrying an emotional depth that resonated with the audience. The setlist was a well-curated mix of her popular tracks, including "Boyfriend," "Pop Girl," and "Kinda Savage, Kinda Sweet." Each song showcased her versatility, blending pop, R&B, and soul influences. 

The atmosphere at the River Stage was electric. Festival-goers of all ages gathered, creating a lively and enthusiastic crowd. Tallia's charisma and interactive performance style ensured that the audience remained engaged throughout. She frequently interacted with fans, sharing stories behind her songs and encouraging sing-alongs, which added a personal touch to the concert experience. 

One of the standout moments was Tallia's acoustic rendition of "Still in Love." Stripped down to just her voice and a guitar, the performance was intimate and raw, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional range. Another highlight was her closing number, "California," which had the entire crowd dancing and singing along, ending the set on a high note.

The production quality was top-notch, with crisp sound and visually stunning lighting that complemented Tallia's vibrant performance. The stage setup was relatively simple but effective, allowing her to move freely and connect with the audience. The sound mix was well-balanced, ensuring that her vocals were always at the forefront, supported by the backing band.  

Tallia Storm's performance at TRNSMT Festival was a testament to her growth as an artist. Her ability to command the stage and connect with the audience made for an unforgettable experience. Whether you were a long-time fan or a new listener, her set was a highlight of the festival. In conclusion, Tallia Storm's concert was a perfect blend of powerful vocals, engaging performance, and high-energy music. Her presence at the TRNSMT Festival not only showcased her talent but also solidified her status as a rising star in the music industry.

Bella Mae’s performance on the King Tut’s stage at TRNSMT Festival was nothing short of spectacular. The rising star, known for her soulful voice and poignant lyrics, captivated the audience with a performance that showcased both her raw talent and magnetic stage presence. Bella Mae immediately set the tone for an unforgettable set. Her rich, emotive vocals filled the festival grounds, drawing the crowd in from the very first note. 

Throughout the set, Bella Mae demonstrated an impressive range, moving seamlessly between powerful anthems and intimate ballads. Tracks like "Broken Wings" and "Silent Echoes" highlighted her ability to convey deep emotion through her music, with each lyric delivered with sincerity and passion. Her vocal control and dynamic delivery were truly impressive, marking her as a standout talent. Bella Mae’s stage presence was both confident and endearing. She engaged with the crowd effortlessly, sharing personal stories and the inspirations behind her songs. This connection added an extra layer of intimacy to her performance, making the large festival stage feel almost like a cosy, private concert.

The band provided a solid and complementary backing, enhancing Bella Mae's performance without overshadowing her. The musicianship was tight and polished, supporting her voice perfectly and adding depth to the live renditions of her songs. A highlight of the set was her performance of "Midnight Dreams." The song’s haunting melody and evocative lyrics created a magical atmosphere, with the audience swaying and singing along. It was a moment of pure connection, where Bella Mae’s artistry shone brightly, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

Lauren Spencer-Smith took to the main stage at TRNSMT Festival with an undeniable sense of purpose and a voice that commanded attention from the very first note. The young singer-songwriter, already a sensation on social media, proved she’s more than capable of holding her own in a live setting.

From the outset, Lauren’s set was a masterclass in connecting with an audience. Her powerful vocals, rich with emotion and control, resonated across the festival grounds. Her performance was a blend of heartfelt ballads and upbeat tracks, including some well known covers; such as Adele’s “Rumour has it”. showcasing her versatility. Songs like "Back to Friends" and "Flowers" highlighted her knack for storytelling, each lyric delivered with genuine feeling. The intimacy she brought to the stage was remarkable, making even those at the back feel part of the experience.

Lauren’s stage presence was equally impressive, despite her relatively young age. In terms of production, the set was understated, allowing her vocal prowess to take centre stage. The band provided solid support, but wisely, the focus remained on Lauren’s impressive voice and engaging performance.

Lauren Spencer-Smith’s appearance at TRNSMT Festival was nothing short of impressive. Her ability to connect with an audience, coupled with her undeniable talent, suggests a very bright future ahead. If this performance is anything to go by, she’s well on her way to becoming a mainstay in the music world.

The iconic girl group Sugababes returned to the main stage at TRNSMT Festival, and it was a performance that reminded everyone why they’ve remained a beloved act for over two decades. With their original lineup back together, Keisha Buchanan, Mutya Buena, and Siobhán Donaghy delivered a set that was both nostalgic and refreshingly dynamic.

From the moment they stepped on stage, it was clear that the Sugababes had lost none of their magic. Their harmonies were tight, their vocals pristine, and their chemistry evident, showcasing a group that’s both well-rehearsed and genuinely enjoying themselves. The setlist was a perfect blend of their biggest hits and fan favourites. Tracks like “Freak Like Me” and “Round Round” had the audience dancing and singing along, while slower numbers such as “Too Lost in You” allowed the group's vocal talents to shine through. Each song was met with enthusiastic applause, a testament to the enduring appeal of their music.

One of the standout moments was their rendition of “Push the Button,” which turned the entire festival into a massive sing-along. The infectious energy of the song, combined with the excitement of the audience, created a festival moment that will be remembered. The Sugababes’ return to the stage at TRNSMT was more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it was a powerful reminder of their significant place in pop music history. Their performance was polished, heartfelt, and undeniably fun. For long-time fans and new listeners alike, it was a testament to the enduring appeal of the Sugababes.

Declan McKenna's performance on the main stage at TRNSMT Festival was a vibrant display of indie rock prowess and youthful exuberance. The young singer-songwriter, known for his socially conscious lyrics and eclectic sound, delivered a set that was both thought-provoking and irresistibly fun. From the opening chords of "Beautiful Faces," McKenna had the audience hooked. His distinctive voice, at once raw and melodic, cut through the summer air, and the crowd responded with enthusiastic cheers and applause. It's clear that McKenna's music resonates deeply with his fans, many of whom sang along to every word.

The setlist was a well-crafted journey through McKenna's discography, highlighting his knack for blending catchy melodies with poignant messages. Songs like "British Bombs" and "The Key to Life on Earth" showcased his ability to tackle serious subjects with a deft touch, wrapping them in infectious hooks and driving rhythms. McKenna's stage presence was captivating. Energetic and charismatic, he moved around the stage with an ease that belied his years, engaging with the audience and creating a sense of connection. 

The band was tight and dynamic, perfectly complementing McKenna's style. The use of vibrant visuals and lighting effects added an extra layer of excitement, without detracting from the music itself. A standout moment of the set was McKenna's performance of "Brazil." The crowd, a lot of whom were sporting Brazilian football tops, erupted as soon as the opening notes were played, and the energy reached a fever pitch. McKenna's passionate delivery and the audience's fervent response created a powerful, communal experience that exemplified the best of live music.

In a delightful surprise for festival-goers, Travis performed a secret set on the Hangout Stage at TRNSMT, transforming an unassuming afternoon into a memorable highlight. The Scottish rock band, beloved for their heartfelt anthems and enduring hits, proved why they remain a treasured act in the music world. Word of the secret set spread quickly, and a sizeable crowd gathered in eager anticipation. As the band took the stage, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and nostalgia. The setlist was a masterclass in delivering fan favourites. Songs like "Why Does It Always Rain on Me?" and "Side" had the crowd singing along passionately, every word echoed back at the band with fervour. Travis’s ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable was on full display, and the connection with the audience was palpable.

The band’s chemistry was evident, their years of playing together translating into a seamless, tight performance. Musically, the set was impeccable. The band delivered their signature sound with precision and energy, each member contributing to the rich, full-bodied live experience. The acoustic elements were particularly striking, allowing the lyrical depth and melodic beauty of their songs to shine through. One of the standout moments was their performance of "Driftwood." The song’s gentle yet powerful arrangement created a serene, almost magical atmosphere, and the audience responded with hushed appreciation before bursting into applause as the final notes faded.

The Snuts delivered an electrifying performance on the main stage at TRNSMT Festival, turning their set into a triumphant homecoming. The Scottish indie rock band, known for their high-energy shows and infectious anthems, proved why they’re one of the most exciting acts on the current music scene. From the explosive opener it was clear that The Snuts were ready to give the hometown crowd everything they had. The song’s driving rhythm and rousing chorus set the tone for the rest of the set, with the audience responding in kind, singing along at full volume and creating an electric atmosphere.

The setlist was a well-curated mix of their biggest hits and fan favourites. Tracks like “Always” and “Juan Belmonte” showcased their knack for crafting catchy, sing-along anthems, while songs like “Elephants” highlighted their ability to blend introspective lyrics with powerful instrumentation. The band's tight musicianship and Jack Cochrane's distinctive vocals were on full display, capturing the raw energy and passion of their music.

Cochrane’s stage presence was magnetic, effortlessly commanding the crowd's attention. His interactions between songs were heartfelt and genuine, often reflecting on the band's journey and expressing gratitude for the support of their fans. This connection added a personal touch to the performance, making the large festival setting feel intimate.

The band’s chemistry was palpable, with each member playing their part to perfection. The guitar riffs were sharp and memorable, the rhythm section provided a solid backbone, and the overall sound was both polished and energetic. A standout moment was their performance of “Somebody Loves You.” The crowd erupted as soon as the opening chords were played, and the sing-along that followed was one of the most memorable moments of the festival. The song’s emotional depth and anthemic quality created a powerful, communal experience that exemplified the best of live music.

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the TRNSMT Festival 2024, The Last Dinner Party delivered an unforgettable performance on the King Tut's Stage at Glasgow Green. The anticipation was palpable as fans gathered, and the band did not disappoint, offering a set that was both electrifying and intimate. 
Overall Impression The Last Dinner Party's performance was a tour de force, showcasing their unique blend of indie rock and theatrical flair. From the moment they took the stage, it was clear that they were in complete command, captivating the audience with their charisma and musical prowess. The band's dynamic stage presence and tight musicianship made for a memorable show that left the crowd wanting more.
The setlist was a perfect mix of fan favourites and new material, creating a balanced and engaging experience. Highlights included: - "A Feast for the Senses": Opening with this track set the tone for the evening, with its infectious melody and powerful vocals instantly drawing in the audience. - "Ghosts of Yesterday": This hauntingly beautiful song featured an impressive guitar solo that was met with roaring applause. Lead vocalist “Abigail Morris” took time to interact with the crowd, sharing stories behind the songs and expressing genuine gratitude for the enthusiastic reception. 

One of the standout moments was their performance of "Midnight Masquerade", where the stage lighting and visual effects created a mesmerizing ambiance that perfectly complemented the song's mysterious vibe. The energy peaked with "Requiem for the Lost", a high-octane number that had everyone dancing and singing along. 

While the performance was stellar, there were minor issues with the sound quality early on, with the vocals being slightly overshadowed by the instruments. However, this was quickly rectified, and the sound balance improved as the set progressed. 

The stage setup was minimalist yet effective, allowing the band's natural charisma and musical talent to shine. The sound quality, after initial adjustments, was clear and well-balanced, ensuring that every nuance of the performance was heard. The crowd's atmosphere was electric, with fans of all ages coming together to enjoy the music.

The Last Dinner Party's set at the TRNSMT Festival 2024 was a standout performance that highlighted their potential as rising stars in the indie rock scene. Their ability to connect with the audience and deliver a captivating show is a testament to their talent and hard work. As they continue to grow and evolve, it's clear that The Last Dinner Party is a band to watch. In summary, their performance on the King Tut's Stage was a feast for the ears and eyes, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to witness it.

Performance Quality Garbage delivered a stunning performance on main stage at TRNSMT Festival 2024, reaffirming their status as a powerhouse in alternative rock. Shirley Manson’s commanding stage presence captivated the audience from the moment she stepped on stage. Her vocals were as raw and dynamic as ever, seamlessly transitioning between haunting melodies and powerful anthems. 

The setlist was a well-curated mix of classics and newer tracks, satisfying long-time fans and new listeners alike. Highlights included iconic hits like "Stupid Girl," "Only Happy When It Rains," and "I Think I’m Paranoid," which elicited enthusiastic sing-alongs from the crowd. The band also showcased tracks from their latest album, blending them seamlessly with their older material.

The stage production was a visual feast, enhancing the band’s performance without overshadowing it. The lighting design was particularly impressive, using a mix of vibrant colors and dramatic strobes to match the energy of each song. The backdrop featured dynamic visuals that complemented the band’s edgy aesthetic, creating an immersive experience for the audience.

Shirley Manson’s interaction with the crowd was a highlight of the night. She frequently engaged with the audience, sharing anecdotes and expressing gratitude for the fans’ continued support. Her charismatic and down-to-earth demeanor helped create a strong connection with the crowd, making the performance feel intimate despite the large festival setting.

Garbage’s performance at TRNSMT Festival 2024 was a testament to their enduring appeal and musical prowess. The band delivered a high-energy show that was both nostalgic and fresh, proving they still have a lot to offer in the ever-evolving music landscape. Their ability to connect with the audience, combined with a stellar setlist and impressive stage production, made for an unforgettable evening. For fans of alternative rock, Garbage’s set was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the festival, leaving a lasting impression and setting a high bar for future performances.

The opening day of the Rockstar Energy Presents TRNSMT Festival 2024 was nothing short of electrifying, with Example headlining the iconic King Tut's Stage. As the sun set over Glasgow Green, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and excitement.

Example, known for his energetic performances and infectious beats, did not disappoint. He kicked off the set with "Changed the Way You Kiss Me," instantly getting the crowd moving. The powerful bass and dynamic light show created an immersive experience that had the audience hooked from the first note.

One of the standout aspects of Example's performance was his connection with the audience. Throughout the night, he engaged with fans, encouraging sing-alongs and even pausing between songs to share anecdotes and express his gratitude for the support. This interaction added a personal touch to the performance, making it feel more intimate despite the festival setting.

The setlist was a well-curated mix of old hits and newer tracks, ensuring that there was something for everyone. Highlights included "Kickstarts," which had the entire crowd jumping in unison, and "All Night," a track that showcased Example's ability to blend catchy hooks with meaningful lyrics. A surprise cover of Calvin Harris's "Summer" was a delightful addition, paying homage to another superstar with roots in the UK.  

The production quality was top-notch, with impressive visuals and a sound system that did justice to Example's bass-heavy tracks. The light show was particularly noteworthy, perfectly synchronized with the music and enhancing the overall experience. The energy in the crowd was palpable, with fans of all ages dancing and singing along enthusiastically.

Example's headlining performance on the first day of the TRNSMT Festival 2024 set a high bar for the rest of the event. His ability to blend high-energy music with genuine crowd interaction made for a memorable evening. As the final notes of "Changed the Way You Kiss Me" echoed through the night, it was clear that Example had once again proven why he remains a favourite on the festival circuit. For fans of Example and newcomers alike, this performance was a testament to his enduring appeal and his knack for delivering unforgettable live shows. If the rest of TRNSMT 2024 is anything like its opening night, festival-goers are in for an incredible weekend of music and memories.

Liam Gallagher’s headlining performance at TRNSMT 2024 was nothing short of legendary. The iconic frontman, known for his unmistakable voice, Parka jacket and swagger, delivered a set that was a perfect blend of Oasis classics and his powerful solo material, captivating a massive crowd at Glasgow Green.

As the sun set and the anticipation reached a fever pitch, Gallagher took to the stage with characteristic confidence. Opening with “Rock ‘n’ Roll Star,” he immediately set the tone for the evening. The crowd erupted in cheers, their excitement palpable. Gallagher’s voice was in top form, every note resonating with the raw energy and emotion that has defined his career. The setlist was a masterstroke, seamlessly weaving together his solo hits and beloved Oasis anthems. Songs like “Wall of Glass” and “Once” showcased his ability to create new music that stands proudly alongside his classic repertoire. The audience, a sea of raised arms and singing voices, embraced every moment.

Gallagher’s stage presence was magnetic. His banter between songs, filled with his trademark wit and Mancunian charm, only added to the connection he has with his fans. He commanded the stage effortlessly, each gesture and look reinforcing his status as a rock ‘n’ roll icon.

The band, tight and dynamic, provided a solid backbone to Gallagher’s powerful vocals. The instrumentation was both faithful to the original Oasis sound and refreshingly vibrant, breathing new life into the older tracks while giving the new material a robust, energetic feel. The production, with its striking visuals and lighting, enhanced the overall experience without overshadowing the music. Highlights of the evening included a heartfelt rendition of “Live Forever,” which turned into a massive sing-along, with Gallagher stepping back to let the crowd’s voices fill the night. “Wonderwall,” as expected, was another standout, the entire festival joining in a unified chorus that echoed across the grounds. These moments of collective euphoria highlighted the enduring impact of Gallagher’s music.

Ending the night with “I am the Walrus,” a cover of the Beatles, Gallagher left the stage to a roaring ovation. The song’s soaring melody and nostalgic lyrics provided a perfect close to a set that had taken the audience on an emotional and exhilarating journey. As the final notes faded, the crowd’s applause and chants for an encore underscored the unforgettable nature of the performance.

review by: kayla louise landale & matthew simpson
photos by: calum buchan

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