Sam Fender returned to his self-proclaimed “Second Home” last week, playing a storming set at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro.
Battling with the Flu, Sam Fender told the audience he would need their help to get through his lengthy set, something which the excitable Glasgow crowd were more than happy to oblige.
That being said, as the hypnotic guitar riff of ‘Dead Boys’ rang out through the massive arena, the crowd settled down and stood to attention. Fender then kicked the night into high gear with fan favourites like ‘Getting Started’ and ‘The Borders’ and before long the hydro was bouncing.
Fender then scanned the sea of black and white Newcastle United jerseys looking for the perfect fan to join him on stage for ‘The Borders’. Fan Declan more than rose to the occasion, delivering a solid performance that no doubt gave him a moment to remember for the rest of his life.
Then came the time for Sam to test out the new album, playing the recently released ‘Wild Long Lie’ a sombre track on which Fender flexes his writing chops.
Despite many using this as a first opportunity to head to the bar, the new singles certainly translate well to the big stage. The emphatic ‘People Watching’ is my personal favourite, which blends War on Drugs-esque guitar melodies with a catchy hook reminiscent of Don Henley’s ‘The Boys of the Summer’.
Sam Fender belted out the opening lines of the track acapella before exclaiming “I’m definitely gonna need you for this.” Despite the warning, Fender delivered an excellent vocal performance, captivating the audience with every note.
Sam then surprised everyone with an impromptu performance of ‘London Calling’ by The Clash. The atmosphere was electric as Mick Jones and Joe Strummer’s iconic riff blasted through the speakers.
As the night drew to a close, it became clear why Sam Fender had earned the nickname “The Geordie Springsteen.” Saxophonist Johnny ‘Blue Hat’ Davis channelled his inner Clarence Clemons, delivering electrifying solos that echoed the legendary E Street Band sound.
The night culminated in a moving rendition of ‘Angel in Lothian’, as Sam Fender took a moment to reflect on his childhood in Scotland. There’s a real sense of vulnerability in this track, epitomised by Sam’s simple yet poignant introduction: “This is a song about someone who died when I was young, who I loved very much”.
In what turned out to be an impromptu conclusion to the North Shields singer’s tour, I can’t help but feel fortunate to have seen his performance before the eventual cancellation. No doubt, Sam will reschedule soon, and for those who missed out this time, you’re in for a good one next time around.
—
Words: Lloyd Jackson
