The Glasgow Hydro was lit up in red, white and blue lights representing the USA flag for the Country to Country event taking place over the weekend, but it was the Clyde Auditorium (more affectionately known as The Armadillo locally) where we were headed for the opening night of The Stranglers 50th anniversary tour.
Eyebrows were raised when the all-seated venue was announced, and anyone that knows The Stranglers music will know that their fanbase is very passionate – more on that later. There was no support announced for the tour and fans were warned that the shows would begin at 8pm sharp. Sure enough, the venue was packed as they took to the stage for the 50 Years In Black Tour, with all four members looking amazing in their black suits.
Vocalist and guitarist Baz Warne commented that he loves playing in Glasgow and got in the mood for the gig the night before, by watching a couple of episodes of the Glaswegian comedy Still Game. The Raven was dedicated to the late Jet Black and Dave Greenfield, both former members of the band, stirring up raw emotions within the crowd and the members themselves. It has to be said that the atmosphere was quite subdued during the first half hour, but that all changed when the first drum and keyboard notes of Hanging Around were played, before Jean-Jaques Burnel let loose on the bass – one brave man moved down towards the front of the stage encouraging other fans to join him, which they duly did! Within 30 seconds the place was jumping, as a sea of bodies rushed to the front of the stage. All age ranges were in here from young to very old, creating a memorable moment for everyone amid breathtaking scenes. The Stranglers fans know how to party! Down In The Sewer was played to perfection, before the half hour break allowed everyone to get their breath back.
Before Set Two began we were entertained by Jock The Box playing Waltzinblack on accordion, which went down well as the fans joined in. Moments later the band reappeared, keeping the good feeling going with Who Wants The World?. The 100 or so fans remained in front of the stage, as one enthusiastic fan decided to climb up on the stage for a dance! The Stranglers took this in good heart with smiles all round, which reminded us that the band are no angels themselves, having been involved in a few incidents through the years in true punk style.
The second set was packed with the band’s biggest hits over the years. Skin Deep, Always The Sun and Golden Brown were played to perfection, proving that The Stranglers are still an outstanding live act, much to the joy of the group of fans at the front who excitedly danced and sang along.
The 28-track set ended with a two song encore. Firstly, Go Buddy Go, the band’s first ever release, followed by No More Heroes that shook the venue to it’s core. Everyone was on their feet knowing that this was the last track. JJ Burnel thanked the fans for coming and commented “Here’s to the next 50 years!”. This is a tour not to be missed. 9/10
Written by: Alan Brown
