Future Islands - Kelvingrove Bandstand

One of the highlights in the bandstand's 100-year history

On a sunny day in Kelvingrove, Future Islands took to the stage at the legendary Kelvingrove Bandstand, celebrating its 100th year. As Samuel T. Herring introduced the night, it was clear the band was delighted to be back in Glasgow, a city they have a special fondness for. Seven albums into their career, they showed no signs of slowing down, kicking off the evening with "King of Sweden," which set the tone for a night filled with dancing and energy.


Future Islands at Kelvingrove Bandstand, photography by Stewart Fullerton.


The band, now 18 and a half years strong, reflected on their journey from kids dreaming about playing music to performing at such iconic venues. Tracks like "The Tower" and "The Dreams of You and Me" resonated deeply with the crowd, blending Herrings intense, theatrical voice with the bands unique sound.

The performance felt like a mad mix of a dance party and a fitness class, with Herring's signature dance moves captivating the audience. It's safe to say that a Future Islands dance class would indeed be a sight to behold.


Future Islands at Kelvingrove Bandstand, photography by Stewart Fullerton.

"Swept Inside" was a standout, with Herring remarking, 'There's always one song that gets me.' The band truly connected with the bandstand, evoking memories of The Nationals past performance here, and perhaps even outshining local favorites Belle and Sebastian.

The night was a one-man opera and dance show, blending genres seamlessly to create incredible scenes on stage. Songs like "Shadows, " which brought support act JOON back onstage for a duet, and "Swept Inside" (from their second album) brought an emotional depth to the performance, while "The Thief" showcased Herring's theatrical flair, his past as a thief, and hinting at his talents as an actor.


Future Islands at Kelvingrove Bandstand, photography by Stewart Fullerton.


The intensity peaked with their biggest hit "Seasons (Waiting on you)," with the crowd's applause growing louder and louder as he stared at the crowd lapping it all up, it was sensational, and it created a palpable energy. The interplay between Herring and the audience during this moment was unforgettable,especially whilst the almost Slipknot esque screams during "Tin Man," before culminating in a powerful encore.

After a long wait, the band returned for multiple encores (4 songs!!!), each one more anticipated than the last. The night ended with "Little Dreamer," a tune that encapsulates the story of the band ' how life changes, yet their music remains a constant.#


Future Islands at Kelvingrove Bandstand, photography by Stewart Fullerton.

Future Islands at Kelvingrove Bandstand was a celebration of music, dreams, and the unbreakable bond between a band and its fans. This performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights in the bandstand's 100-year history.


King of Sweden
The Tower
A Dream of You and Me
Swept Inside
Ran
Plastic Beach
Peach
Light House
Give Me the Ghost Back
The Sickness
The Garden Wheel
Shadows
(with JOON)
Ancient Water
The Thief
For Sure
Say Goodbye
Seasons (Waiting on You)
Long Flight
Tin Man

Encore:

Vireos Eye
Tybee Island
Corner of My Eye
Little Dreamer

Review by Craig McGee, photography by Stewart Fullerton.

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