On Monday night, October 20, NewDad wrapped Glasgow’s SWG3 in a dreamlike haze, delivering a mesmerising set that moved effortlessly between gentle melancholy and soaring alt rock. The band proudly shared with the crowd that this was their largest Glasgow headline show they have ever played.
I had the privilege of attending this show, and NewDad did not disappoint. Supported by the rising Cork collective Cardinals, the evening unfolded like a slow-burning emotional release – intimate and atmospheric.
Cardinals Set the Tone
Cardinals opened up the night, taking to the stage with a quiet confidence, and gleeful cheers from the growing crowd echoed SWG3 TV Studio. Glasgow crowds, living up to their reputation, didn’t disappoint, eagerly warming the room up for NewDad.
Cardinals sound was a rich blend of Irish folk and indie rock, with piercing, emotive vocals.
Between songs, the crowd held its breath, anticipating the band’s next move. Powerfully raw and vulnerable words filled the air, perfectly accompanied by waves of accordion, adding a unique element to this band.
Their final track lifted the energy and left the crowd wanting more – everything a great support slot should achieve. Ireland continues to stand out as a driving force in modern alt-rock.
NewDad take centre stage
Glasgow crowds are often known for their volume. Tonight, the noise permeated the atmosphere rather than being a result of shouting. The room leaned into quiet focus, falling almost silent during some verses and allowing the stunning vocals of Julie Dawson to take over. Though not for long, the crowd broke into warm, full-bodied cheers at every chorus.
You could feel the connection. Eyes glued to the stage, lyrics mouthed like quiet confessions. In a venue as tight as SWG3’s TV Studio, that kind of intimacy hits harder. It didn’t just feel like watching a gig. It felt more like stepping inside someone else’s dream and agreeing not to wake them.
A stellar setlist
NewDad structured their set with care, allowing each song to build momentum without sacrificing emotional clarity. Favourites from Madra sparked instant recognition, while newer tracks from Altar showcased a band growing in confidence and depth.
Fans were pleased with songs like ‘Blue‘ featuring later on in the night, Rosa, 19, from Glasgow commented she was, “So happy to finally hear Blue live”
Owen, 26, from Dennistoun, stated he had, “Never really explored them before that night”, joining a friend at the show, he was “blown away by the support band” and “couldn’t believe how amazing NewDad sound live”
Setlist
- Other Side
- Heavyweight
- Entertainer
- Sickly Sweet
- Pretty
- Something’s Broken
- Let Go
- Puzzle
- Everything I Wanted
- Mr Cold Embrace
- Blue
- Misery
- Sinking Kind of Feeling
Encore - Angel
- Roobosh
A Triumphant End
By the end, the room hummed with shared wonder, fans quietly exchanging smiles and whispered favourites. NewDad had delivered exactly what the city wanted: a set that felt personal, emotional, and unforgettable.
With Glasgow conquered in intimate fashion, NewDad look poised for bigger stages ahead. Their chemistry, confidence, and command of space suggest this is a band still growing but already capable of leaving an indelible mark on every crowd they touch.
Feature Image credit: Courteney Pearson
