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

‘GERRY CINNAMON’
TOPS THE BILL ON SATURDAY AT
ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS…
TRNSMT FESTIVAL 2024

★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

GERRY CINNAMON HEADLINING TRNSMT FESTIVAL 2024
PHOTOCREDIT: PA IMAGES

Saturday saw fans buzzing with anticipation, particularly for the homegrown hero, Gerry Cinnamon. Despite a steady drizzle that persisted through the day, spirits remained high as music lovers donned their ponchos and embraced the quintessential festival weather. The damp conditions did little to dampen the enthusiasm of the crowd, who were determined to make the most of every performance leading up to Cinnamon’s highly awaited set. The sense of community and shared excitement kept the energy alive, making for another fantastic day at TRNSMT.

Psychedelic Porn Crumpets open up King Tut’s stage on Day Two of TRNSMT 2024, with an infectious energy that immediately captivated the crowd. Their sound, a heady mix of psychedelic rock and progressive elements, was both complex and accessible. Jack McEwan's vocals were powerful and perfectly complemented by the intricate guitar work of Luke Parish. Danny Caddy on drums and Luke Reynolds on bass provided a rock-solid foundation, driving the band's dynamic sound forward.

They played a mix of tracks from their earlier albums, like "High Visceral {Part 1}" and "High Visceral {Part 2}," as well as newer material. The set was a whirlwind of heavy guitar riffs, surreal lyrics, and mind-bending compositions. Highlights included crowd favourites such as "Cornflake" and "Keen for Kick Ons?" which had everyone dancing and singing along.

The Psychedelic Porn Crumpets' performance was a testament to their reputation as a must-see live act. Their ability to blend intricate musicianship with raw energy made their set a standout of the festival.

The Irish band ‘NewDad’ open up the Main Stage on Day 2 of TRNSMT 2024 with a laid-back confidence that immediately drew the audience in. Their dreamy, indie sound was a perfect fit for the festival atmosphere. Julie Dawson’s ethereal vocals were beautifully complemented by the shimmering guitar work of Sean O'Dowd, with Áindle O'Beirn's bass and Fiachra Parslow's drums creating a rich, textured backdrop.

They played a selection of tracks from their recent releases, including standout songs like "I Don't Recognise You" and "Blue." Each song was delivered with an emotional depth that resonated with the crowd, creating an intimate connection despite the festival's large setting. New Dad's performance was marked by its understated yet powerful presence. The band's ability to create such an engaging and immersive experience with their mellow, atmospheric sound made their set one to remember. 

The Mary Wallopers delivered a show on Main Stage that will be remembered for years to come, drawing in a massive crowd eager to witness their unique blend of folk and traditional Irish music.

The atmosphere was electric as the band took the stage, their charisma and infectious energy immediately setting the tone for what was to come. Fronted by the ever-engaging Charles Hendy, the Mary Wallopers captivated the audience with their spirited performances and witty banter. The crowd, swelling to an impressive size, was a testament to the band's growing popularity and the anticipation surrounding their set.

Their performance featured a mix of traditional tunes and original songs, all delivered with a raw, authentic passion that had everyone clapping, dancing, and singing along. Highlights included rousing renditions of "Cod Liver Oil and the Orange Juice" and "Building Up and Tearing England Down," which resonated deeply with the enthusiastic crowd.

The Mary Wallopers' set was a joyous celebration of Irish folk music, brought to life by their exceptional musicianship and vibrant stage presence. The massive crowd that gathered for their performance was a clear indicator of their ability to unite and energise an audience.

The Glasgow-based band's set was a whirlwind of energy from start to finish. Anna Shields' commanding vocals were a force to be reckoned with, perfectly matched by the relentless guitar riffs of Blair Crichton. The rhythm section, consisting of Aidan McAllister on bass and Liam Adams on drums, kept the momentum driving forward, creating a tight, explosive sound that had the audience hooked.

Dead Pony played a mix of their well-known tracks and newer material, each song infused with their signature blend of punk rock and grunge. Highlights included powerful renditions of "Everything Is Easy" and "23, Never Me," both of which had the crowd singing along and moshing with abandon. 

Their performance was marked by its intensity and raw passion, making it clear why Dead Pony has been garnering so much attention. The band's ability to engage the crowd and maintain such a high level of energy throughout their set made them a standout act of the festival. If you're looking for a band that delivers an electrifying live show, Dead Pony is definitely one to watch.

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Anna from the rising band Dead Pony. Fresh off their exhilarating performance at the Transmit Festival, Anna shares insights into their creative process, their experiences on stage, and what fans can expect in the near future. Let's dive in!

Interviewer: So, how did you find the show?

Anna: It was fun. The good thing about Transmit is we always have a lot of friends and family in the crowd, so that was nice.

Interviewer: Amazing. And how did you find the crowd?

Anna: Good. I think we're kinda used to playing to bigger audiences in Glasgow or at festivals, but overall they were fairly energetic and yeah, it was fun.

Interviewer: Your debut album has been making waves since its release. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind it?

Anna: Yeah, so there are multiple different inspirations behind the album. On a sonic or aesthetic level, we're inspired by a lot of films we love. That's why the artwork features all the different VHS and video tapes. But the core message of the album is about feeling ignored by the industry. We decided to literally do our own thing and make the music we wanted to make.

Interviewer: It's a really good punching name for that as well. Literally saying  “ignore it”

Anna: Yeah, and thankfully people haven't ignored it, but I wouldn't have been surprised if they did.

Interviewer: The recording process for that album was quite unique. You recorded up in Scottish Highlands. How was that?

Anna: It was good. We went to a residential studio that had a cottage with a studio attached. We'd get up in the morning, have some breakfast, write a song, and then record it. It was like a bootcamp, writing and recording a song per day. By the end, it was brutal because the only way to leave the cottage was by driving. It was so secluded that we eventually went a bit mad, but it was good. I even brought my hamster with me, which was quite nice.

Interviewer: The different sounds blend well together. How do you and Blair manage that?

Anna: It's good because Blair and I have similar tastes but different influences. I'm inspired by early 2000s pop stars like Britney Spears, Nelly Fetardo, and Gwen Stefani, while Blair is really into new metal like Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park, NERD, and Korn. Blair writes the musical elements and I often write the vocals and lyrics. We blend our styles nicely.

Interviewer: Your shows are known for being quite energetic. How do you keep that going?

Anna: A lot of running and preparing. On stage, you get so filled with adrenaline that it keeps you going. Performing to hundreds or thousands of people gives you a rush, and when you come off stage, you feel exhausted but exhilarated.

Interviewer: What's next for Dead Pony? Any exciting plans for 2024?

Anna: Yes, we've soft released the fact that we're playing our biggest headline show to date at the QMU in Glasgow. We’ve got a big headline tour coming up, playing at Reading and Leeds festivals, and touring with a band called The Warning. We're also supporting The Gossip. Lots of shows coming up!

Interviewer: Are you looking forward to Reading and Leeds?

Anna: I am. I’ve never been, and I’ve always wanted to go just to experience it. So, I’m thrilled to actually get to play there this year.

Interviewer: How do you find playing in front of a crowd that size?

Anna: I love it. I find it difficult to play in front of small crowds. If I played in front of 30 people, I think I’d have a panic attack. But I love the big crowds.

Interviewer: Thank you so much for sharing, Anna. We really enjoyed your set earlier.

Anna: Thank you so much.

Anna’s passion for music and her band’s energetic performances shine through in this interview. With exciting plans on the horizon and a unique blend of influences, Dead Pony is a band to watch. We look forward to seeing them at Leeds Festival this year. 

From the moment The Vaccines hit the Main Stage, the band exuded confidence and charisma. Frontman Justin Young's distinctive vocals and infectious energy set the tone for a lively set that had the crowd fully engaged. The band's chemistry was palpable, with Freddie Cowan's sharp guitar work, Árni Árnason's steady bass lines, and Yoann Intonti's dynamic drumming creating a cohesive and powerful sound.

Their setlist was a well-crafted mix of classic hits and newer tracks. Crowd favourites like "If You Wanna" and "Post Break-Up Sex" had everyone singing along, while newer songs like "Headphones Baby" showcased the band's continued evolution and relevance. Each track was delivered with precision and enthusiasm, keeping the audience's energy levels high throughout the performance.

Taking the stage for first time in Scotland since 2004 with her last performance at Hampden Park Stadium, Natasha Bedingfield returns to Scotland with performance on Main Stage on Day Two of TRNSMT 2024. Taking to the stage with grace and confidence, Bedingfield immediately captivated the audience with her powerhouse vocals and charismatic presence. Opening her set with the upbeat anthem “Unwritten,” she set a vibrant tone that carried through the entire performance. The crowd responded eagerly, singing along and dancing to her catchy tunes.

Bedingfield’s setlist was a perfect blend of her classic hits and newer tracks, demonstrating both her evolution as an artist and her enduring appeal. Songs like “Pocketful of Sunshine” and “These Words” had the crowd singing in unison, while newer releases such as “Roller Skate” showcased her continued creativity and ability to stay relevant in the pop music scene.

Musically, Bedingfield was supported by a talented band that brought her songs to life with precision and energy. The dynamic arrangements and infectious rhythms kept the audience engaged from start to finish, highlighting Bedingfield’s knack for crafting memorable pop melodies. She also performed a stunning rendition is Princes “Purple Rain”, that the crowd seamless sang with her. Her impressive vocals, coupled with her engaging stage presence and hit-filled setlist, made for an unforgettable experience.

At TRNSMT Festival 2024, Dylan John Thomas' performance on the main stage was a triumphant moment in his rapidly ascending career. Having first seen him a year ago at Leeds Festival on the Festival Republic stage, and then at the Edinburgh O2 Academy, it's clear that his popularity and musical prowess have only grown.

Back in Leeds, Thomas impressed with his raw talent and charismatic stage presence, hinting at a bright future. His performance in Edinburgh solidified this promise, showcasing his growth as an artist and his ability to captivate larger audiences. By the time he took the main stage at TRNSMT, it was evident that he had truly arrived.

Thomas' set at TRNSMT was a moment in modern indie rock, blending heartfelt lyrics with compelling melodies. His distinctive voice, paired with his impressive guitar skills, created a rich, immersive sound that resonated deeply with the audience. The setlist featured fan favourites like "Jenna" and "Wake Up Ma”.

The crowd's enthusiastic response was a testament to Thomas' rising popularity. His ability to connect with the audience, whether in an intimate venue or on a major festival stage, is a key part of his appeal. The energy was palpable, with fans singing along to every word and dancing to the infectious rhythms.

Dylan John Thomas' trajectory from smaller stages to headlining slots on major festivals is a clear indicator of his talent and dedication. His performance at TRNSMT Festival 2024 was not just a highlight of the event, but a milestone in his burgeoning career. If his current trajectory continues, Thomas is poised to become a major force in the indie rock scene.

From the outset, Caity Baiser commanded the King Tut’s Stage with confidence and charisma, capturing the audience's attention with her infectious energy. Her setlist was a blend of fan favourites and newer tracks, each song infused with catchy hooks and heartfelt lyrics that have resonated strongly with her TikTok following.

Baiser's rise to prominence on TikTok has been pivotal in expanding her fanbase, and this was evident in the enthusiastic response from the crowd. Fans sang along to hits like "Hold Me Close" and "Falling Apart," demonstrating their familiarity and connection with her music, which they likely discovered through the platform's viral trends and shared content.

Musically, Baiser was supported by a talented band that enhanced the depth and dynamics of her songs. The arrangements ranged from intimate acoustic moments to upbeat, anthemic choruses, showcasing her versatility and ability to craft memorable melodies that resonate across digital platforms and live performances alike.

At TRNSMT Festival 2024, Rick Astley delivered a performance that was as timeless as it was entertaining, reminding everyone why he remains an enduring icon in pop music.

Astley took to the stage with a blend of charm and professionalism that immediately won over the crowd. His rich, soulful voice sounded as strong as ever, effortlessly carrying both his classic hits and newer material. The set opened with a burst of energy which had the audience singing along from the first note. Performing covers of Sam Fender’s “Seventeen going Under” and ACDC’s “Highway to Hell” while playing the drums.

Of course, the highlight of the night was his performance of "Never Gonna Give You Up," a song that has not only stood the test of time but also gained a new life as a beloved internet meme. The crowd's reaction was electric, with thousands of fans joining in a joyous singalong that showcased the song's enduring appeal.

Rick Astley's performance at TRNSMT Festival 2024 was a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern artistry. His ability to bridge the gap between past and present, coupled with his undeniable talent, stage presence and charisma, made his set a standout moment of the festival. 

The Courteeners were piped out to stage to flower of Scotland and delivered a powerhouse performance that solidified their status as one of the leading bands in British indie rock. From the moment they stepped on stage, frontman Liam Fray and his bandmates captivated the audience with their signature blend of anthemic melodies and poignant lyrics. 

The Courteeners' setlist was a perfect mix of old favourites and tracks from their latest album. Classics like "Are You in Love with a Notion?" and "What Took You So Long?" had the crowd singing every word, while newer songs like "Heavy Jacket" were met with just as much enthusiasm. Fray's charismatic stage presence and heartfelt vocals brought each song to life, creating a strong connection with the audience.

The band's tight, polished sound was complemented by the dynamic interplay between Fray's guitar and the rhythm section, consisting of Michael Campbell on drums, Daniel “Conan” Moores on guitar, and Mark Cuppello on bass. Their performance was a testament to their years of experience and the strong bond they share as a group. Performing “Not Nineteen Forever” Liam enthusiastically told the crowd that it was the “best rendition of that song they’d ever had”.

The crowd's reaction was nothing short of ecstatic, with fans cheering and dancing throughout the set. The Courteeners' ability to blend relatable lyrics with infectious tunes has earned them a dedicated following, and their TRNSMT Festival performance was a clear reflection of that loyalty.

At TRNSMT Festival 2024, headliner Gerry Cinnamon delivered an unforgettable performance that resonated with fans of all ages, showcasing why he’s considered Glasgow home-town hero. The anticipation for Cinnamon's set was palpable, with the crowd buzzing long before he took the stage. Among the sea of excited fans, one standout was a 70-year-old man who had been standing at the barrier all day, celebrating his birthday in the best way possible: waiting to see Gerry Cinnamon live.

ROY APPLEBAY FROM NEWCASTLE CELEBRATES HIS 70TH BIRTHDAY AT TRNSMT 2024 FOR GERRY CINNAMON’S HEADLINE PERFORMANCE
PHOTOCREDIT: CALUM BUCHAN

Cinnamon’s ability to craft relatable, storytelling songs was on full display, with tracks like "Sometimes" and "Belter" turning into massive singalongs. The crowd's response was electric, singing every word back to him with heartfelt enthusiasm.

Cinnamon’s down-to-earth persona and genuine interaction with the crowd further elevated the experience. He shared stories, cracked jokes, and expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support of his fans. His performance of "Canter" was a standout moment, the anthem's hopeful message echoing through the festival grounds while fireworks and streams filled the sky. 

In summary, Gerry Cinnamon's headlining set at TRNSMT Festival 2024 was a triumphant celebration of music and community. His ability to connect with audiences of all ages underscores his unique talent and appeal. Cinnamon’s performance was not just a highlight of the festival but a memorable event for everyone present. If you haven’t seen Gerry Cinnamon live, you’re missing out on a truly special experience and we cannot wait to see him at Leeds Festival. 

GERRY CINNAMON HEADLINING TRNSMT FESTIVAL 2024
PHOTOCREDIT: PA IMAGES

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

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