As Newton Faulkner’s UK and Ireland tour comes to an end, his Glasgow stop at SWG3, October 26, felt less like a standard gig and more like a victory lap. Touring on the back of Octopus, his eighth studio album and his most adventurous yet. Newton Faulkner exuded the confidence of an artist who knows his roots and relishes the journey ahead.
Image credit: Courteney Pearson
A Night Kicked Off Right
Before Faulkner took to the stage, Glasgow was treated to a lively warm-up from his two support acts. Marie Naffah opened the night with her soulful, dynamic set. NATI provided an electrifying highlight covering Alanis Morissette’s ‘You Oughta Know’, prompting the crowd to belt out every word in unison.
Their performances set the tone for an evening of energy and emotion, priming the audience perfectly for Faulkner’s headline set.
Octopus Comes To Life
The show opened with the kind of warm familiarity that has become Faulkner’s hallmark: a signature blend of effortless musicianship and playful banter. Songs from Octopus shimmered live, full of the rhythmic invention and collaborative spirit that define his recent work.
There’s a new maturity to Newton Faulkner these days. His stripped-back acoustic arrangements and looped percussion still dazzle, but the intention behind them feels deeper. It’s not about showing off; it’s about connection.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Newton Faulkner gig without a dose of fun. A quick burst of a playful Kermit the frog impression mid-set drew laughs, and the atmosphere stayed buoyant throughout.
The Party Trick to End All Party Tricks
The moment that will linger in most people’s minds came near the end. Faulkner launched into his solo acoustic rendition of Queen’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’. Somehow, one man and one guitar managed to turn SWG3 into a chorus of hundreds. The audience echoed every “Galileo” like a festival crowd under one industrial roof. It was equal parts awe-inspiring and emotive, the perfect summary of Faulkner’s musical magic.
As he closed the night with older favourites and word of thanks, there was a clear sense that this tour, and this album, mark a milestone. Octopus feels like the work of an artist unafraid to evolve, grounded in purpose and compassion. Glasgow gave him the kind of send-off that only this city can: loud, loyal, and full of love.
If this show was any indication, Newton Faulkner’s latest chapter isn’t winding down, it’s only just begun.
Feature Image Credit: Courteney Pearson