Kneecap set to make Glasgow comeback with extensive series of shows following TRNSMT cancellation
Kneecap is set to make a comeback to Glasgow with their “biggest run of shows ever” after being removed from the TRNSMT music festival lineup. The group faced scrutiny from counter-terror police due to accusations against rapper Mo Chara involving terrorism offenses related to a Hezbollah flag. Despite the setback, Kneecap performed at Glasgow’s O2 Academy, which quickly sold out in just over a minute, demonstrating their popularity among fans.
The trio recently announced a UK tour scheduled for November, featuring a performance at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro on November 30. This tour is being touted as their most extensive run of shows to date, with additional stops planned in London, Newcastle, and Manchester. Fans can access pre-sale tickets starting Wednesday, with general sales kicking off on Friday at 10 am.
At a recent show, Mo Chara, also known as Liam O hAnnaidh, directed criticism at Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney, questioning the crowd about his name and asserting that despite being barred from TRNSMT, they would still play in Glasgow. This incident stemmed from a controversial video in 2023 where a band member made inflammatory remarks about politicians.
Swinney condemned the band’s remarks and advocated for their removal from TRNSMT, citing safety concerns and inappropriate conduct. However, he later expressed a desire to move past the controversy and focus on humanitarian issues, particularly regarding the crisis in the Middle East.
Kneecap, known for performing in Irish, have been vocal critics of the conflict in Gaza. They believe the legal action taken against them is a result of their stance on Palestine. Despite these challenges, the group continues to forge ahead with their music, recently performing at the 2000 Trees rock festival and preparing for upcoming shows in Manchester and Belfast.
The trio’s resilience and determination to navigate through obstacles demonstrate their commitment to their music and the message they convey. As they gear up for their forthcoming shows, Kneecap’s return to Glasgow promises an unforgettable performance that fans eagerly anticipate. With their sharp lyrics and unique style, the band continues to captivate audiences and solidify their place in the music scene.