Elbow - Kelvingrove Bandstand - 07/08/2025

A Triumphant Return to Kelvingrove Park

The sun set over Kelvingrove Park as Manchesters finest, Elbow, took to the stage for the first of their highly anticipated gigs. For many, the experience began not with a bang, but with the familiar, comforting tones of frontman Guy Garvey, instantly transporting the audience to a lazy Sunday afternoon listening to his regular BBC 6 Music show. This was a night of epic soundscapes, big builds, and rousing renditions, all woven together by Garveys unique blend of wit, charm, and powerful vocals.

The evenings performance was a journey through the bands rich back catalogue, with each song delivered with a renewed energy. The crowds reception was electric, particularly for fan favourites like "The Bones of You" and "Grounds for Divorce," which were met with massive cheers and enthusiastic humming, respectively.

Garveys interactions with the crowd were a key part of the shows magic. Early on, he initiated a game with the band, challenging them to find a "Wheres Wally"-esque lookalike of his brother, Marcus, in the audience. The bands guitarist, Craig, was apparently the champion of this game, successfully spotting Andy in the crowd later in the set - Garvey quipped that Craig "always wins."

Before a song about love and trains - which got a massive cheer - Garvey gave a shout-out to two audience members, Katrina and Caroline, whom he had met earlier that day. He even took a moment to compliment Carolines jacket, having forgotten to do so earlier, much to the crowds delight.

A particularly poignant moment came with the introduction of Lippy Kids, from "Build a Rocket Boys!," which Garvey revealed had taken six months to write. His heartfelt, massive monologue about the songs creation added an extra layer of emotion to an already powerful performance, delivering an "absolute tune." The song "Everything Has Changed" also featured, showcasing the bands evolving sound.
The concert culminated in an absolutely breath-taking rendition of "One Day Like This," with Garvey masterfully conducting the audience in a collective hum. His power over the crowd was palpable, a testament to his status as a sound geezer and a true showman.

As the band left the stage, Garveys impromptu serenade of "Oh Flower of Scotland" sparked a spontaneous singalong among the crowd, transforming Kelvingrove Park into a massive Scottish karaoke session. It was a fittingly impressive end to a night that showcased not only Elbows musical brilliance but also Guy Garveys incredible connection with his audience.

Elbow - Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow - August 7, 2025 Setlist

1. This Blue World
2. Lovers Leap
3. Adriana Again
4. The Bones of You
5. Kindling
6. Her to the Earth
7. Balu
8. Good Blood Mexico City
9. The Seldom Seen Kid
10. Mirrorball
11. Things Ive Been Telling Myself for Years
12. The Birds
13. Lippy Kids
14. Magnificent (She Says)
15. Sober
16. Grounds for Divorce

Encore: 
17. My Sad Captains 
18. One Day Like This


Review by Craig McGee, photography by Stewart Fullerton.

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