MORRISSEY // O2 ACADEMY, GLASGOW
A Return Fit for a King
★★★★☆ (4/5)
MORRISSEY PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S O2 ACADEMY
PHOTOCREDIT: RYAN LOWRY
“You’re the one for me, Morrissey!” said the crowd at Glasgow’s O2 Academy, a sentiment echoed by every adoring face in the packed venue. For his loyal following, this wasn’t just another tour stop—it was a pilgrimage.
It’s impossible to discuss Morrissey without acknowledging the polarising reputation that follows him like a shadow. The former Smiths frontman is as known for his lyrical genius and melancholic anthems as he is for controversial political statements and on-stage rants. Over the years, he’s alienated some fans while solidifying a more die-hard, devoted base—those who can separate the art from the artist. His gigs have occasionally been marred by walkouts, protests, and boycotts. But in Glasgow? He was greeted with nothing but love.
This year’s tour marked Morrissey’s first Scottish shows in some time—his last tour conspicuously skipped the country—so it came as no surprise when both nights sold out in a flash. Outside the O2, groups of hardcore devotees camped out hours, even days, in advance. Many had travelled across Europe, some even further, following their hero gig to gig. Fans handed over flowers and gifts at the doors, which were swiftly passed to security to deliver backstage. The gesture was old-school, sincere, and entirely fitting. To this crowd, Morrissey isn't just a performer—he's a figure of worship.
With no support act, anticipation was thick in the air as the audience chanted his name. When he finally appeared, the roar was deafening. Dressed sharply, eyes blazing, he launched straight into “All You Need Is Me,” wielding the microphone cord like a whip as he prowled the stage—a trademark move that remains oddly hypnotic.
The setlist was a dream for long-time fans, a blend of solo classics and Smiths-era gems. “You’re the One for Me, Fatty” and “How Soon Is Now?” triggered near-euphoria, while newer tracks like “Rebels Without Applause” and “Sure Enough, the Telephone Rings” showed he still has songwriting fire in him. “I Know It’s Over” was a particular highlight, delivered with haunting vulnerability that made the room stand still.
“Life Is a Pigsty” brought the night to a cinematic intensity, with Morrissey framed in moody lighting, the band drawing every ounce of drama from the slow burn arrangement. He seemed emotionally invested throughout, offering little banter but plenty of presence. His voice—still rich, textured, and unmistakably his—held strong even through the encore.
He returned to the stage to deliver two closing songs that felt almost autobiographical: “Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me” and “Irish Blood, English Heart.” The latter, especially, had the crowd bouncing and shouting every lyric—a thunderous end to a poignant night.
In Glasgow, Morrissey wasn’t controversial. He wasn’t complicated. He was cherished. Loved. Revered. For those two hours, the noise outside fell away, and all that remained was the music—and the man who, for many, still means everything.
MORRISSEY PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S O2 ACADEMY
PHOTOCREDIT: RYAN LOWRY