Deaf Havana made a triumphant return to Glasgow with a packed show at the O2 ABC.
The band hit the road in celebration of their fourth album ‘All These Countless Nights’, released on January 27th via SO Records.
With a musical career spanning 11 years, some bands may be ready to take their foot off the pedal and prepare to sail along on the success of their previous releases – but not Deaf Havana.
Returning to the stage where they belong, armed with their new album and a back catalogue of top tracks, the band were more than ready to rock as they launched into opening track ‘Ashes, Ashes’.
Blending a range of songs from their latest release stemming back to 2011’s ‘Fools and Worthless Liars’, their well-rehearsed set was infused with energy and passion.
Taking any opportunity to thank the crowd, it seemed the band were overwhelmed at the support on the night. With one audience member exclaiming ‘we’ve missed you!’ mid-set the band’s beaming smiles lit up the stage as frontman James Veck-Gilodi stated “we can’t believe how amazing this has been!”
As it was less than a month since their new album release, it was the older tracks which proved strongest on the night providing a throwback, including ‘Leeches’ and ’22’, reminding the crowd exactly why they’d fell in love with the band.
Overflowing with poignant lyrics, frontman James Veck-Gilodi’s powerful vocals led the way particularly in ‘The Past Six Years’ and ‘Hunstanton Pier’.
With singalongs, mosh pits and the traditional Scottish ‘here we f*cking go’ chant, it was the return the crowd were waiting for who were ready to welcome back Deaf Havana with open arms.
It was refreshing to see a band so full of energy and passion after so many years, with a genuine appreciation for every minute of their set.
Watching them live, it was hard to believe the band almost split up following James’ solo stint, but perhaps this was the break that was needed to breathe this new life into the band.
With their live sets stepping it up and an album release to be proud of, we’re more than ready for the next leg in Deaf Havana’s musical journey – and it seems there are plenty of fans along for the ride.