March 1, 2026: A Night of Legendary Rock
Review & Photography by Gavin Lowrey
Co-Headlining Tour: A Rock Fan’s Dream
Tonight’s co-headlining tour features the iconic Michael Monroe, former frontman of Hanoi Rocks, alongside the hard-hitting California rockers Buckcherry. The event took place at SWG3 in Glasgow, with Boston-based Rubikon warming up the crowd.
Rubikon: Setting the Stage
Though relatively new to many in attendance, Rubikon showcased a dynamic blend of rock, metal, blues, and grunge during their thirty-minute set. Despite being a lesser-known act, they managed to engage the growing crowd, leaving a positive impression by the end of their performance.
Michael Monroe Takes the Stage
Following Rubikon’s energetic set, Michael Monroe entered the spotlight, diving straight into “Dead, Jail or Rock & Roll.” Monroe is not just a performer; he is a captivating force that has maintained his energy and charisma since his Hanoi Rocks days nearly fifty years ago.
An Icon in Action
The setlist featured a mix of Monroe’s solo tracks and classic Hanoi Rocks favorites, alongside a nod to his Demolition 23 era with “Hammersmith Palais” and a playful cover of “Up Around The Bend” by Creedence Clearwater Revival. His rapport with the audience was palpable as he moved effortlessly across the stage, embodying the energy and spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.
Set Highlights and Audience Reaction
Though Monroe’s set was only an hour long, every song resonated with the crowd, especially hits like “Last Train to Tokyo,” “Hammersmith Palais,” and “Malibu Beach Nightmare.” The audience’s enthusiastic response indicated that they would have been satisfied with an even longer performance.
Buckcherry’s Turn to Shine
After a brief intermission, Buckcherry took the stage, with frontman Josh Todd kicking off their set with “Lit Up” from their self-titled debut album. The crowd remained lively, eager to see what Buckcherry had in store.
New Material and Classic Hits
Buckcherry’s setlist showcased a mix of new tracks from their latest album, “Roar Like Thunder,” and fan favorites. The energy in the venue was palpable, with the sound quality seemingly better than during Monroe’s set.
Dynamic Performance
The band’s dynamics were impressive, particularly Todd’s laid-back yet commanding stage presence contrasted with the exuberant energy of the rest of the band. They closed their set with “Say Fuck It,” delivering a high-energy performance that left the audience wanting more.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
The night was a celebration of rock music, with both headliners delivering unforgettable performances. While the co-headlining format meant both sets were shorter than desired, the energy and enthusiasm from the crowd were undeniable. Fans departed with smiles, already reminiscing about the great music they had just experienced.
FAQs
What time did the concert start?
The concert began in the evening, with Rubikon opening the show, followed by Michael Monroe and Buckcherry.
How long did each band perform?
Michael Monroe played for about an hour, followed by Buckcherry, who also performed for approximately an hour.
What songs did Michael Monroe perform?
Monroe’s set included tracks like “Dead, Jail or Rock & Roll,” “Hammersmith Palais,” and “Malibu Beach Nightmare,” among others.
Did Buckcherry play any new songs?
Yes, Buckcherry performed several songs from their latest album, “Roar Like Thunder,” alongside classic hits.
Was the venue well-attended?
Yes, the venue was packed, with an enthusiastic crowd that enjoyed both performances.
