Brian Joneston Massacre - Barrowland Ballroom 6/02/2025

Despite the occasional slowdown, The Brian Jonestown Massacre delivered a night of immersive psychedelia

There are few venues in the world with the kind of storied legacy that Glasgows Barrowland Ballroom holds. Its springy wooden floor, its rich history of legendary performances, and its place as a mecca for live music lovers make it an iconic destination for any band lucky enough to grace its stage. For The Brian Jonestown Massacre, a group whose affinity for Glasgow runs deep, their return to the Barras felt like a homecoming of sorts.

Anton Newcombe and his ever-evolving collective of musicians have maintained a long-standing love affair with this city. Over the years, Glasgow crowds have embraced the bands unpredictable, often chaotic performances with open arms. This show was no different-a heady mix of psychedelic grooves, reverb-drenched guitars, and the kind of unpredictable energy that defines BJMs live experience.

The night had all the hallmarks of a classic BJM gig-hypnotic rhythms, moments of pure transcendence, and yes, some of those long, drawn-out tuning breaks that tested the patience of even the most devoted fans. Between songs, Newcombe and company spent extended periods tweaking their sound, at times losing the crowds momentum in the process. There were audible groans as the pauses stretched on, but the frustration was always short-lived, swept away as soon as the next wave of fuzz-drenched euphoria kicked in.

I had the pleasure of experiencing the show with my Romanian friend, who was visiting Barrowlands for the first time. Seeing her take in the venues electric atmosphere, its buzzing neon sign glowing against the damp Glasgow night, and the legendary sprung dancefloor beneath her feet, was a special moment. The Barras has a way of turning first-time visitors into lifelong fans.

A special shoutout to the incredible Barrowlands staff, especially David, who was kind enough to provide a setlist and photopass-both of which I gifted to my friend as a keepsake from her first trip to this world-famous venue.

Overall, despite the occasional slowdown, The Brian Jonestown Massacre delivered a night of immersive psychedelia that reminded us why they remain such a compelling force in live music. Heres hoping for their swift return to Glasgows most hallowed stage.

Review by Craig McGee

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