WHEN the snow stopped the music in Glasgow earlier this month, one of the casualties was a Thursday night sold-out Django Django show which marked the start of their European tour with Edinburgh band Man of Moon. Forced to reschedule and head out to Europe before playing the coveted Glasgow slot, the band returned to SWG3 on earlier this week packing out the venue with Monday night dancers.
Kicking things off nice and early ahead of jumping in the van and putting pedal to the metal to make an Edinburgh headline show were Man of Moon. The band embarked on a praise-laden whirlwind when they smashed onto the scene a couple years ago and TENEMENT TV have been big fans ever since. Tight and mesmerising, the wall of sound the two piece brought to the vast SWG3 space from the the start of their set was impressive to say the least. Owning the attention of the crowd with an intricate light show, Man of Moon smashed through their set with tracks including ‘Sign’ and ‘The Road’ notable highlights.
What’s most exciting about Man of Moon’s return to the live circuit though, is their new material which is sounding huge next to their older tracks. Closing tune ‘Strangers’ is awash with fresh dance rock vibe, with remnants of LCD Soundsystem peaking through the guitar riffs.
What proceeded was one of the most raw, alive and awakening performances Django Django have ever delivered as sparks flew between the four piece on stage the crowd reacted with similar energy throughout the set. Although all members brought a certain amount of class to the gig last night, the true star of the show was synth operator Tommy, who’s incredible passion and enthusiasm meant you couldn’t take your eyes off him. As he approached each percussion instrument with awe, his dancing and effort never wavered. There was something really special in that.
The setlist was spot on for the Marble Skies tour, opening with title track ‘Marble Skies’, the energy remained at a peak throughout the set with classics such as ‘Default’ intertwined with new tunes ‘Tic Tac Toe’ and ‘In Your Beat’. And as such, the adoring crowd were at times child-like with awe staring at the stage like they were observing an intergalactic solar system in pure wonder at points due to the absolutely incredible visual production, posing as a backdrop to the band.
A pinnacle point of the show was overhearing one fan shouting to another through exaggerated dance moves: “I am sorry I nearly heidbutted you, I just really love this song.”
If people make Glasgow, then Man of Moon and The Djangos make Monday nights. Check out our photo gallery here.
