Sometimes I wonder what's the point in living. I'm getting older with fewer years in front than behind; I have a career that's gone into reverse and my writing is stalling - It's not that I can't, it's more that I don't, which is worse. I could just get out while the going's good.
My wife would miss me briefly but she'd find someone else - she's a catch.
Then I go to the Barrowland to see GUN supported by Dirty Thrills and Mason Hill and it reminds me why I am alive. My misery shell cracks open, I reawaken my pumping heart, beating to the rhythm of the drums, and I find my voice again to sing loudly along to the tunes that rocked my youth (and more recently). It's a fabulous feeling that leaves me not a little hoarse and totally buzzing, especially in the ears.
It wasn't their best gig. It was good but was spoiled by a couple of technical glitches with the sound. Dante obviously isn't concerned by all the stories of men in power abusing their position as he kissed and hugged his band, expressing his joy at performing at the Barrowland again, a feat which got them inducted today into the venue's hall of fame. They killed with the old stuff and we raised the roof singing along. The newer songs fitted in nicely too.
I missed most of the first support act but was fascinated by Dirty Thrills singer's wiggle dance during their last number. The song was reminiscent of Soundgarden in its riff. Mason Hill, with their thumping, long hair rock, sounded similar in the style to Alterbridge or Shinedown - if those bands had a lead singer from Glasgow. It was heavy and melodic but didn't reach the parts in me that were craving for GUN. Their debut album is out next year. I'll maybe give it a listen.
I suppose my learn from tonight is life is a sum of experiences. It's not a bank balance or a calendar to check off. It's not pre-worry about a future that hasn't happened or ruminating about events that have gone before. It's about finding your "Favourite Pleasure" in the now and enjoying it.
I love GUN. Now that it's over -(Don't Say It's Over)- I just need to find the next thing to look forward to.
Who said Who?
Setlist
She Knows
Here's Where I Am
Don't Say It's Over
Word Up! (Cameo cover)
Favourite Pleasures
Money (Everybody Loves Her)
Welcome to the Real World
Hold Your Head Up
Taking on the World
Black Heart
Tragic Heroes
Better Days
Inside Out
Steal Your Fire
Boy Who Fooled the World
Take Me Down
Shame on You
(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!) (Beastie Boys cover)
