Wunderhorse Live

The open and industrial space of the Galvanizers section of Glasgow’s cherished SWG3 venue welcomed English rockers Wunderhorse, a band led by tough folk-inspired rock music, and the emotive storytelling of singer-songwriter Jacob Slater. The location felt appropriate, reflecting the band’s appealing dynamic; hardened steel and stone surrounded by a pretty and artistic expression. 

A rise in popularity has meant an even busier touring schedule for the band, whose debut LP, Cub, was released last year through Communion Music, and has received praise and support from trusted British publications such as the NME and DIY. 

Jacob Slater warned the audience early that he was in the process of losing his voice (Wunderhoarse?), before assuring us that they were never going to cancel their date with Glasgow, pressing the point home by tearing into the next highlight from their LP, giving his vocal chords no mercy as he sang and cried through every bittersweet syllable. 

They seamlessly wove new tracks - no doubt to be featured on their confirmed sophomore LP, which one can probably assume is heading towards a 2024 release date - together with their established favourites. 

The reception towards popular singles such as 17 and Purple proved that this is a band that has connected with their listeners, proving relatability can still be found in the most personal of lyrics. The sold-out Glasgow crowd passionately sang along with every word of Teal, exclaiming in all the right places; ‘What if it did, Katie? What if it killed her!’ 

Highlights of the set were inevitably the familiar favourites found on that debut album; songs that hark back to the heroes of yesteryear; the folk-tinged rock of Elliott Smith evident in the set’s opener, Girl Behind The Glass, or the psychedelic Britpop of The Stone Roses noticeable during the closing track of the night, Poppy. 

When they were finished, exiting the stage to a chorus of applause and lingering feedback, you couldn’t help but feel this is a band destined to play in front of even more devout fans, and perhaps inside of even bigger venues in the near future.