Friday Night. Glasgow. Tick, tock nine o'clock. Free Candy Session time. The Viragoes. Chris Blair. Scott Keenan. All present and correct. Engaging reviewer mode…
What is it about happy songs and Glasgow singer songwriters? It seems that never the twain shall mix but if you are going the downbeat, downtrodden path then do it with style. That's what Chris Blair does. He might not make you smile but his distinctive voice and deft touch on the guitar will keep your attention. Definitely a cut above the Glasgow average. He's got an album out too.
Another man with an acoustic guitar was next. Scott Keenan (of the Oran Social) played a competent set of downbeat songs. However, the song "Test Pilot" indicated that he could be capable of something altogether more dramatic. Dramatic is good.
Then no less than six people squeezed themselves in to the stage. It was the welcome return of The Viragoes to the Liquid Ship and nobody could describe them as depressing. They appear to have a cunning plan to hide all sorts of darkness behind catchy, upbeat songs like "Madame Nicotine" and "Cheap Shoes and Lies". You know what? It works. Even better, they are all fine musicians and they know how to keep an audience's attention. A band to watch out for, without a doubt.
An enjoyable way to spend a Friday night? Well yes actually, and it put me in the mood for - wait for it - chicken pakora. A man can never have too much chicken pakora. I've never hit my limit anyway.