Cast

Here is the event page content for Cast at Barrowland, Glasgow:

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable night of anthemic indie rock as the legendary Cast descend upon Glasgow’s iconic Barrowland Ballroom on Saturday, 29 November 2025. This is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of a band that has consistently delivered powerful, melodic songwriting and electrifying live performances for decades. Known for their signature blend of soaring guitars, John Power’s distinctive vocals, and a knack for crafting universally resonant choruses, Cast’s return to the hallowed stage of the Barrowland promises to be a homecoming of epic proportions. Immerse yourself in a soundscape that defined a generation and continues to captivate audiences worldwide. This is your chance to witness a band at the peak of their powers, bringing their timeless anthems to one of Scotland’s most beloved venues.

About Cast

Formed in Liverpool in 1992, Cast emerged from the ashes of The La’s and The Stone Roses, quickly carving out their own distinctive niche in the burgeoning Britpop scene. Led by the charismatic John Power, the band’s sound is a potent distillation of classic 60s psychedelia, mod sensibilities, and the urgent energy of 90s guitar-driven rock. Their debut album, All Change, released in 1995, was a commercial and critical triumph, spawning iconic singles like “Walkaway” and “Alright.” The latter, with its uplifting chorus and infectious optimism, became an anthem for a generation and remains one of the band’s most enduring hits. Follow-up albums such as Mother, Nature, Son (1997) and Magic Hour (1999) further solidified their reputation for crafting meticulously arranged, melodic rock songs that appealed to a broad audience.

Cast’s music is characterised by Power’s soulful, sometimes melancholic, yet always hopeful lyrical themes, delivered with a vocal prowess that is both raw and refined. The intricate guitar work, often featuring layered textures and memorable riffs, is a hallmark of their sound, providing a rich backdrop for Power’s storytelling. While they navigated the turbulent waters of the music industry, Cast maintained a dedicated fanbase through their unwavering commitment to quality songwriting and authentic performance. Their reunion in recent years has been met with widespread acclaim, proving that their music has lost none of its power or relevance. Hits like “Guiding Star,” “She’s So Fine,” and the aforementioned “Walkaway” and “Alright” are not just songs; they are sonic touchstones that evoke a particular era of British music, yet their universal themes of love, hope, and perseverance ensure their continued resonance. Cast are not simply a band from the past; they are a living, breathing testament to the enduring power of great songwriting and electrifying performance.

Venue Information

The Barrowland Ballroom, a legendary Glasgow institution, is more than just a venue; it’s a pilgrimage site for music lovers. Renowned for its distinctive fairy-tale facade and its intimate, yet cavernous, interior, it boasts a unique atmosphere that has witnessed some of the most memorable gigs in rock history. The sprung dance floor, the iconic leopard print design, and the sheer palpable energy of the crowd combine to create an unparalleled live music experience. Every performance at the Barrowland feels special, infused with the venue’s rich heritage and the passionate spirit of Glasgow’s music scene. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a masterclass in live rock performance when Cast take to the Barrowland stage. John Power, alongside his seasoned bandmates, is a captivating frontman, exuding a genuine connection with the audience that is both disarming and electrifying. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves together their most beloved anthems with deeper cuts and perhaps even some newer material, showcasing the breadth and depth of their considerable catalogue.

The performance will undoubtedly be a showcase for their signature sound: soaring, melodic guitar lines that interweave and build, underpinned by a tight, driving rhythm section that provides an irresistible groove. John Power’s vocals will be at the forefront, delivering each lyric with a potent blend of soulfulness and raw emotion that has become his trademark. You can anticipate moments of pure exhilaration as they launch into fan favourites like “Walkaway,” where the entire room will undoubtedly be singing along to every word. The explosive energy of “Alright” will have the dance floor bouncing, while the more introspective beauty of “Guiding Star” will create a powerful sense of communal reflection.

Cast’s performance style is characterised by its authenticity and passion. There are no unnecessary theatrics or pretences; just four musicians pouring their hearts and souls into delivering exceptional songs with conviction and skill. The chemistry between the band members is evident, their shared history translating into a seamless and powerful musical unit. Expect the sound to be rich and full, with the characteristic warmth of the Barrowland amplifying the band’s sonic textures. While the exact duration of the set can vary, typically a Cast performance will last for around 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring ample opportunity to bask in their musical brilliance. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an immersive experience designed to leave you exhilarated, inspired, and with a renewed appreciation for the enduring power of great British guitar music.

FAQs

Q1: Will Cast be playing their classic hits at this show? Absolutely. Cast are renowned for delivering their beloved anthems live, and you can expect to hear iconic tracks such as “Walkaway,” “Alright,” “Guiding Star,” and “She’s So Fine” at their Barrowland performance. They understand what their fans cherish, and these songs form the backbone of their electrifying live shows.

Q2: Is John Power still the lead singer and primary songwriter for Cast? Yes, John Power remains the driving force behind Cast, continuing as the lead vocalist and principal songwriter. His distinctive voice and lyrical vision are central to the band’s enduring appeal, and he leads the band with his characteristic passion and charisma.

Q3: What is the typical set length for a Cast concert? A typical Cast concert usually lasts between 90 minutes and two hours. This allows them to showcase a comprehensive selection of their hits, fan favourites, and potentially some newer material, ensuring a full and satisfying experience for all attendees.

Q4: Has Cast released new music recently? Cast have continued to release new music in recent years, demonstrating their ongoing creative vitality. Their live shows often incorporate newer songs alongside their established classics, offering a fresh perspective on their evolving sound while staying true to their core identity.

Q5: Is Cast a band that encourages audience participation? Undoubtedly. Cast’s music, particularly their anthemic choruses, is made for singing along. Expect a very engaged and vocally active audience at the Barrowland, with John Power often encouraging participation, creating a truly communal and celebratory atmosphere.

Q6: What are Cast’s influences, and how might that be reflected in their live performance? Cast’s sound is deeply rooted in classic British guitar music, drawing inspiration from the 60s psychedelic era and the mod movement, as well as the energy of 90s Britpop. This rich tapestry of influences is evident in their melodic songwriting, layered guitar arrangements, and soulful vocal delivery, all of which are showcased to great effect in their dynamic live performances.