O2 Academy Glasgow
18th December 2025
Review & Photography by Gavin Lowrey
Concert Overview
As 2025 draws to a close, the musical calendar in Glasgow wraps up with an explosive performance by Clutch, accompanied by the Greek band 1000mods and Norway’s own Bokassa. Fans of stoner and blues rock were in for a treat, as the venue buzzed with excitement, nearly at capacity as Bokassa took the stage.
Bokassa’s Performance
Bokassa, once hailed by Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, has seen a decline in their career momentum. Nevertheless, their set kicks off with the high-energy track “Last Night (Was a Real Massacre),” creating an electrifying atmosphere. The trio’s sound impressively fills the room, leaving the audience in awe of their skill despite their smaller lineup.
Frontman Jørn Kaarstad not only delivers powerful vocals but also engages the crowd with light-hearted banter about Scotland’s beloved deep-fried pizza. Their reliance on the acclaimed 2017 album “Divide & Conquer” showcases their evolution as a band, and the audience’s enthusiastic response indicates a longing for their rise back to prominence.
1000mods Takes the Stage
Next to perform, 1000mods from Greece amps up the energy with their opening track “Electric Carve.” The addition of an extra guitarist brings a fresh intensity to their performance, captivating the crowd. Their set draws heavily from their debut album “Super Van Vacation” and the latest “Cheat Death,” delivering a barrage of hard-hitting stoner riffs that resonates well with the audience.
Having not heard their music before, I was pleasantly surprised by their performance and would eagerly welcome them back for another show in the future.
Clutch: The Main Event
The moment Clutch steps onto the stage, the energy in the O2 Academy skyrockets. They open with “Big News 1,” showcasing vocalist Neil Fallon’s captivating presence as he moves across the stage with his mic draped over his shoulder. The band’s willingness to mix up their setlist keeps the audience guessing and engaged, a refreshing departure from the predictability that often plagues live performances.
Tracks like “Mob Goes Wild” and “Army of Bono” set the tone for a dynamic performance that spans eight of Clutch’s albums, illustrating their mastery of a genre with no clear boundaries. Their unique blend of stoner rock, blues, funk, and hardcore punk creates a sound that is both distinctive and captivating.
Musical Highlights
Guitarist Tim Sult and bassist Dan Maines maintain their positions at the back of the stage, allowing Fallon to command the spotlight. His skillful microphone handling adds an exciting visual element to the performance. Clutch’s sound intensifies throughout the set, with standout moments including “Slaughter Beach,” “Quick Death in Texas,” “Nosferatu Madre,” and a powerful rendition of “Ghost.”
The main set concludes with “The Regulator,” leading to an energetic encore featuring “Electric Worry” and a turbocharged cover of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Fortunate Son.” Clutch undeniably delivers a memorable performance, akin to a perfect Christmas gift for their fans.
Conclusion
Clutch’s concert at the O2 Academy Glasgow was a fittingly explosive end to the year for music lovers. Their ability to mesmerize the audience with a mix of high-energy performances and engaging stage presence solidifies their reputation as masters of their genre. As the final notes echoed through the venue, it was clear that Clutch had once again delivered an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
What time did the concert start?
The concert began in the evening, but specific times can vary based on the lineup and venue schedule.
Who were the opening acts for Clutch?
The opening acts for Clutch were Bokassa and 1000mods.
How long did Clutch perform?
Clutch’s set lasted approximately 90 minutes, including their encore.
What songs were highlights of the Clutch performance?
Highlights included “Slaughter Beach,” “Ghost,” and “Electric Worry.” The band also performed a cover of “Fortunate Son.”
Will Clutch be touring again soon?
While specific future tour dates have not been announced yet, Clutch often tours extensively, so fans should keep an eye on their official channels for updates.
