Counterparts

Counterparts Live at SWG3, Glasgow

Get ready for an electrifying night of raw emotion and powerful anthems as Canadian melodic hardcore titans, Counterparts, descend upon Glasgow’s iconic SWG3 on Monday, 16 February 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an opportunity to experience one of the most vital voices in modern heavy music delivering a performance that is as cathartic as it is unforgettable. Prepare to be swept away by their signature blend of introspective lyrics, crushing breakdowns, and soaring melodies. SWG3, a venue renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and dedication to showcasing exceptional live talent, will provide the perfect backdrop for this unmissable evening.

About Counterparts

Emerging from the fertile ground of Ontario, Canada, Counterparts have carved a formidable reputation as purveyors of intensely honest and emotionally resonant melodic hardcore. Since their inception in 2007, the band, fronted by the always compelling Brendan Murphy, has consistently delivered music that grapples with themes of personal struggle, mental health, and the complexities of human relationships. Their sound is a meticulously crafted storm of driving guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and Murphy’s distinctive vocal delivery, which effortlessly shifts between guttural screams and impassioned cleans.

Over the years, Counterparts have cultivated a dedicated global following through relentless touring and a discography that showcases a consistent commitment to evolving their sound without ever losing sight of their core identity. Their breakthrough album, “The Current Will Carry Us” (2013), solidified their status, featuring fan-favourite tracks like “The Current Will Carry Us” and “Diversion” that perfectly encapsulate their raw energy. Subsequent releases, including “Tragedy Will Find Us” (2015) with the anthemic “Burn/Coward” and “You’re Not You Anymore” (2017) featuring the widely celebrated “Swim Beneath The Surface,” have only deepened their appeal. Their most recent album, “A Eulogy for the Damned” (2022), continued this trajectory, offering introspective lyrical content coupled with their most mature and sonically diverse material to date. Tracks like “Whispers of the Past” and “Paradigm” demonstrate their continued ability to write songs that are both intensely personal and universally relatable, resonating deeply with listeners who connect with their unflinching honesty. Counterparts are more than just a band; they are a cathartic release, a communal experience, and a testament to the enduring power of genuine expression in heavy music.

Venue Information

SWG3 is Glasgow’s premier multi-disciplinary arts and creative hub, renowned for its industrial aesthetic and its commitment to hosting an eclectic range of live music events. Situated in the vibrant West End of the city, it provides a dynamic and atmospheric setting for bands and fans alike. With a capacity that ensures an intimate yet energetic live experience, SWG3 has become a cornerstone of the Scottish music scene, consistently attracting world-class artists across various genres. Its reputation for excellent sound quality and a passionate audience makes it the ideal location for a night of intense and memorable music. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a sonic assault that will leave you breathless and exhilarated. Counterparts are renowned for their incredibly tight and energetic live performances. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves together fan-favourites from across their extensive catalogue, interspersed with compelling tracks from their latest material. While the exact setlist will undoubtedly be a thrilling surprise, you can anticipate anthems like “Witness,” “Soil,” “Shine,” “Black Heart,” and “Legacy” to ignite the SWG3 crowd. These songs are built for live performance, designed to be shouted along to, to be felt in your chest, and to create a palpable sense of shared experience.

The performance style of Counterparts is characterized by an unyielding intensity. Brendan Murphy is a captivating frontman, pouring every ounce of emotion into his vocals, his presence commanding the stage. The musicianship is exceptionally precise; the guitars deliver crushing riffs and searing melodies with remarkable clarity, the rhythm section is a powerhouse of relentless energy, driving the songs forward with unwavering force. Expect moments of pure, unadulterated aggression punctuated by periods of soaring, melodic beauty. The breakdowns will be seismic, eliciting enthusiastic circle pits and stage dives from the passionate Glasgow audience. The overall duration of the set will be a substantial 60-75 minutes, offering ample time for them to showcase the breadth of their sonic evolution and connect deeply with everyone in attendance. This is not a performance to be passively observed; it is an invitation to immerse yourself fully in the cathartic power of live music.

FAQs

Q1: Will Counterparts be playing songs from all of their albums? A1: Counterparts have a rich discography, and their live sets typically feature a balanced mix of fan-favourite tracks from their earlier works alongside compelling selections from their more recent albums. You can expect a journey through their evolution as a band, touching upon the highlights that have cemented their reputation.

Q2: What is Brendan Murphy’s vocal style like live? A2: Brendan Murphy is known for his incredibly passionate and dynamic vocal performance. Live, he delivers both his signature guttural screams and his more melodic, impassioned clean vocals with raw authenticity. He’s a highly engaging frontman who connects deeply with the emotional core of each song.

Q3: Can I expect a lot of energy and mosh pits at a Counterparts show? A3: Absolutely. Counterparts are renowned for their high-energy live shows, and their music is tailor-made for moshing, crowd surfing, and enthusiastic singalongs. The Glasgow crowd at SWG3 is expected to bring a fantastic level of energy, making for a truly dynamic and engaging experience.

Q4: Are there any opening acts confirmed for this show? A4: Details regarding support acts for this specific date are yet to be announced. Please keep an eye on our official event page and social media channels for the latest updates on any confirmed opening bands.

Q5: How long is Counterparts’ typical live set? A5: A standard Counterparts live set usually runs for approximately 60 to 75 minutes. This allows them ample time to perform a comprehensive selection of their most impactful songs and engage with the audience effectively.

Q6: Is Counterparts a band that interacts with the crowd during their set? A6: Yes, Brendan Murphy and the band are known for their engagement with the audience. They often deliver heartfelt intros to songs, express gratitude to the crowd, and encourage participation, fostering a strong sense of community during their performances.