Concert review: Kiefer Sutherland at Glasgow Old Fruitmarket

Throughout his career, Kiefer Sutherland has always maintained an air of restlessness. Despite his reputation as a Hollywood bad boy, there is a sense that he is driven by passion and a desire for reinvention. Starting with Stand by Me and later achieving worldwide fame through 24, Sutherland’s life has been a journey of constant evolution.

In the late 1990s, the weight of fame began to take its toll, leading Sutherland to explore a different path as a team roper and rodeo cowboy, showcasing his versatility and willingness to embrace new challenges. However, music has always been a consistent presence in his life, acting as a guiding force through the various twists and turns of his career.

With four albums under his belt and a new record titled ‘Grey’ set to drop at the end of the month, Sutherland arrived in Glasgow amidst a backdrop of celebration as Celtic F.C. was crowned league champions, igniting the city with excitement. Stepping into the Old Fruitmarket, Sutherland found solace in the historic venue, providing a stark contrast to the chaos unfolding outside.

Taking the stage with his trademark energy and presence, Sutherland kicked off the night with ‘Down Below’ from his upcoming album ‘Grey’. The gritty country-rock vibe of the song immediately captured the audience’s attention, setting the tone for a memorable performance. Another standout track, ‘Goodbye California’, showcased Sutherland’s deep connection to the music, blending elements of a road song and a farewell letter with a poignant charm that resonated with the crowd.

While fan favorites like ‘Something You Love’ and ‘Chasing The Rain’ elicited the loudest responses from the Glasgow audience, it was the performance of ‘American Farmer’ that truly stood out. A new song from ‘Grey’, it captivated the room with its emotional depth and storytelling, leaving a lasting impact on both the listeners and Sutherland himself.

As the night progressed, the atmosphere grew warm and intimate, with songs like ‘Love Will Bring You Home’ and ‘Two Stepping In Time’ embracing the audience like a comforting dance partner, exuding tenderness and heartfelt emotion. Throughout the night, Sutherland paid homage to his musical influences with covers of songs by The Marshall Tucker Band, Ozzy Osbourne, and Phil Collins, showcasing the diverse range of artists that have shaped his musical journey.

In Sutherland’s varied life roles as an actor, outlaw, cowboy, and musician, music remains the constant thread that ties it all together. With ‘Grey’ on the horizon, his performance in Glasgow was not just a trip down memory lane but a testament to his ongoing creative exploration and commitment to his musical storytelling. As the night came to a close, it was evident that Sutherland’s musical journey is far from over, with each song and performance adding a new chapter to his evolving story.