Band of Horses: Glasgow Barrowland, October 2026 (Gig review)

Band of Horses brought their anniversary show to Glasgow, in recognition of twenty years since the release of their debut, Everything All The Time.

Fronted by singer Ben Bridwell, the only consistent band member throughout their six-album career, the Seattle based rockers treated the Glasgow crowd to the debut album in full, then after an intermission, a perfectly curated exploration of the band’s back catalogue.

Commercially, Band of Horses have never hit the heights their output deserves however they have consistently been lauded by critics and have a loyal worldwide fanbase. It is a testament to the popularity of Everything All The Time that compelled the band to celebrate it with a tour of its own.

Opener, ‘The First Song’, sets the tone with its wintery lyrics feeling relevant tonight as the cold nights begin to creep in. Bridwell’s vocals seem strained at times, possibly due to being deep into a European tour, but it works on this track and adds vulnerability to an already melancholy feel.

As the set progresses Bridwell’s vocals return to full flow and the band’s staple track ‘The Funeral’ is every bit as stunning as it is on record. This is a band on top of their game, tight knit doesn’t even cover it with thrashing atmospheric guitars, Bridwell’s haunting vocals, and Creighton Barrett’s explosive drumming.

The second half of the set is full of fan favourites, and a particular standout is ‘Laredo’ from 2010’s Grammy nominated Infinite Arms. There is even an unexpected treat with a cover of JJ Cale’s ‘Thirteen Days’ before a rousing finale with ‘The General Specific’.

With a new album due early next year Band of Horses may return to these shores sooner than expected. Keep your trucker hat and plaid shirt handy in case they do.

Photo credit: Jonathan Wildey