Baxter Dury

Baxter Dury Live at SWG3, Glasgow

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the enigmatic and utterly unique Baxter Dury descends upon Glasgow’s renowned SWG3 on Friday, 14 November 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an immersion into the captivating world of a true British original. Baxter Dury, a craftsman of wry observational humour, spoken-word poetry set to a disarmingly groovy backdrop, and a stage presence that oscillates between lounge lizard cool and mischievous raconteur, promises a night that will linger long after the final note fades. SWG3, a powerhouse of Glasgow’s creative scene, provides the perfect industrial canvas for Dury’s distinctive artistry, promising an atmosphere that is both raw and intimate. This is your chance to witness one of contemporary music’s most compelling and singular talents in the flesh, delivering a performance that is as intellectually stimulating as it is sonically rewarding.

About Baxter Dury

Baxter Dury is an artist who defies easy categorization, a true raconteur whose music blends post-punk sensibilities with a sophisticated, almost debauched charm. Born into a legendary musical lineage as the son of The Blockheads’ Ian Dury, Baxter has carved out a remarkable career of his own, marked by a distinctive lyrical style and an undeniable flair for the theatrical. His early releases, such as the critically acclaimed “Len Parrot’s Steak House” (2002) and “Floor” (2005), showcased his burgeoning talent for creating atmospheric soundscapes underpinned by his spoken-word narratives. However, it was with albums like “Happy Soup” (2011) and particularly “It’s a Pleasure” (2014) that Baxter truly hit his stride, injecting a more robust, danceable rhythm into his work.

This period saw the emergence of some of his most beloved tracks, including the swaggering, infectious “Miami”, a song that encapsulates his effortless cool and observational wit. “Palm Trees”, another fan favourite, further solidified his reputation for crafting effortlessly cool, yet surprisingly poignant, anthems. His 2017 album, “Prince of Tears”, delved into deeper, more introspective themes, delivered with the same unflinching honesty and dark humour that has become his hallmark. More recently, “The Night Chancers” (2020) saw him embracing a more opulent, late-night vibe, complete with lush arrangements and his signature deadpan delivery. Baxter Dury’s music is a testament to his enduring ability to capture the absurdities and beauties of modern life with unparalleled style. His live shows are legendary for their intimate yet electrifying atmosphere, making this Glasgow date a must-see for fans and newcomers alike.

Venue Information

SWG3 is Glasgow’s premier destination for live music, arts, and culture, housed within a series of converted Victorian railway arches and galvanised iron warehouses in the city’s West End. This industrial heritage provides a unique and atmospheric backdrop for live performances, offering a raw, unpretentious setting that complements the eclectic range of artists who grace its stages. SWG3 is renowned for its commitment to showcasing both established and emerging talent across a multitude of genres, making it a vital hub for Glasgow’s vibrant music scene. The venue boasts multiple distinct spaces, each offering a different scale and feel, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for attendees. With its commitment to providing a high-quality audio-visual experience and a welcoming atmosphere, SWG3 consistently delivers memorable nights for music lovers. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When Baxter Dury takes to the stage at SWG3, you can anticipate a performance that is far removed from the conventional concert experience. Forget stadium-rock bombast; instead, prepare for an evening of sophisticated, darkly humorous, and undeniably groovy sonic storytelling. Dury’s setlists are a masterclass in curation, seamlessly weaving together material from across his extensive catalogue, ensuring a journey through his evolving sound. Expect to be swept away by the hypnotic rhythms of tracks like “Miami”, its laid-back swagger perfect for a Friday night. The anthemic quality of “Palm Trees” will undoubtedly have the SWG3 crowd swaying in unison, its observational lyrics resonating with shared experiences.

You’ll also be treated to the more recent explorations of “The Night Chancers”, tracks that ooze a certain nocturnal cool, their lush instrumentation and Dury’s characteristically deadpan vocal delivery creating a captivating atmosphere. Don’t be surprised if he dips back into his earlier, more spoken-word-heavy material, offering glimpses into the raw, observational talent that first captured attention. The beauty of a Baxter Dury performance lies in its unpredictability. While the music provides an irresistible, often danceable, foundation, it’s Dury’s stage presence that truly elevates the experience. He commands the room with a disarming blend of wry detachment and genuine engagement. His delivery is a performance in itself – a masterful dance between spoken word and melodic phrasing, delivered with a perfectly timed pause or a knowing glance. He possesses an innate ability to connect with his audience on a personal level, making each attendee feel like they are part of an exclusive, intimate gathering. The performance duration typically spans around 90 minutes, providing ample time for a comprehensive exploration of his artistry, interspersed with his trademark wit and conversational interludes. This is not merely a concert; it’s a theatrical event, a masterclass in delivering compelling narratives with an effortless, almost nonchalant, charisma. Prepare to be entertained, intrigued, and utterly charmed.

FAQs

Q1: What is Baxter Dury’s typical setlist like? Baxter Dury’s setlists are known for their thoughtful curation, drawing from across his diverse discography. You can expect to hear fan favourites such as the undeniably cool “Miami” and the grooving “Palm Trees,” which showcase his signature lyrical style and infectious rhythms. He often incorporates material from his more recent albums, like “The Night Chancers,” offering a taste of his evolving sound and lush arrangements. While he’s known for his more uptempo, danceable tracks, he also delves into his earlier, more observational and spoken-word-driven pieces, providing a well-rounded experience of his artistic journey. Each show is tailored to the venue and audience, so while there are core hits, there’s always an element of surprise.

Q2: How would you describe Baxter Dury’s stage presence? Baxter Dury possesses a truly unique and captivating stage presence. He embodies a sophisticated, almost loungy cool, often delivered with a deadpan, wry wit. He’s not one for grand gestures; instead, his charisma lies in his effortless command of the stage, his observational humour, and his distinctive vocal delivery, which oscillates between spoken word and melodic singing. He has a knack for making the large SWG3 space feel intimate, engaging the audience with his storytelling and sharp observations. Expect a performance that is both effortlessly stylish and surprisingly engaging.

Q3: Is Baxter Dury’s music suitable for dancing? Absolutely. While Baxter Dury’s lyrical content often explores deeper, more observational themes, his music is underpinned by incredibly groovy and often danceable rhythms. Tracks like “Miami” and many from “The Night Chancers” feature infectious basslines and a propulsive beat that are perfect for moving to. His shows at venues like SWG3 often see the crowd fully embracing the rhythm, creating a fantastic atmosphere where you can both appreciate the lyrics and let loose on the dancefloor.

Q4: Does Baxter Dury interact with the audience during his shows? Yes, interaction is a key element of a Baxter Dury performance, though perhaps not in the way you might expect from a more traditional frontman. His interaction is usually through his engaging spoken-word interludes and witty asides between songs. He has a natural storytelling ability that draws the audience in, sharing observations or humorous anecdotes that feel personal and authentic. He creates a sense of camaraderie, making you feel like you’re privy to his thoughts rather than just observing a performance from afar.

Q5: What kind of atmosphere can I expect at a Baxter Dury gig? You can expect a sophisticated yet undeniably cool and intimate atmosphere. SWG3’s industrial setting will undoubtedly enhance this, providing a raw and atmospheric backdrop. Baxter Dury’s shows are known for their blend of wry humour, stylish grooves, and a tangible sense of artistic integrity. It’s a space where you can appreciate intelligent songwriting, enjoy compelling rhythms, and feel a genuine connection with the artist. It’s a night for those who appreciate originality, wit, and music that makes you think and move in equal measure.

Q6: Are Baxter Dury’s lyrics always serious, or is there humour? Humour is absolutely central to Baxter Dury’s appeal. While his lyrics can delve into profound and sometimes melancholic observations about life, relationships, and society, they are almost always infused with a sharp, dry, and often self-deprecating wit. His deadpan delivery accentuates the humour, making even the most poignant lines land with a clever, insightful chuckle. This balance of wit and emotional depth is what makes his songwriting so distinctive and engaging.