LIVE REVIEW: THE HORRORS @ QMU 5.11.2025
The Horrors played the iconic Queen Margaret Union this last Tuesday night in Glasgow to promote their newest album, Night Life.
The Horrors formed in Southend-on-Sea in 2005 and have since released six studio albums. Now, in their 20th year of playing together, they are etched in Glasgow’s music history by adding their name to the list of legendary bands to have played in the QMU venue.
A mysterious, atmospheric introduction played as The Horrors made their way onto the stage. This set the tone for the night. Full of ominous vibes and the kind of dark anticipation that only The Horrors could summon.
The production of this gig was expertly executed to match the band’s shoegaze and gothic rock aesthetic. The instrumentals were on points throughout. The Horrors tend to make longer than average songs, so when seeing them live, you feel truly immersed in the unreal sounds that the talented musicians are able to produce.
Tracks such as ‘More Than Life’ and ‘The Silence That Remains’ were hits among the crowd. These songs got everyone excited and they felt like some of the biggest moments of the night.
The band seemed to have a lot of fun with the gig. Frontman Faris Badwan whipped out a green laser pointer for some songs that he shone around the venue and into the crowd. This added a playful touch to otherwise a shadowy set. Overall, it was a visually engaging performance and was obvious the crowd was enjoying it too.
A standout moment came when the band performed a stellar cover of David Bowie’s ‘Heroes’. Fans immediately lit up and it gave the chance for those unfamiliar with the band to sing along and feel part of the moment.
Finally, the band closed with ‘Something To Remember Me By’ from their 2017 album, V. This was a great choice of song to close the night with, an upbeat tune that had everyone singing.
That Tuesday night in Glasgow, The Horrors showed why they have been together for so long. Their 20 year career is built on memorable live performances, a unique style and unreal instrumentation. This gig was one that the QMU will remember for a long time.
REVIEW BY: CHLOE BUCKLEY
