Review: Tide Lines’ ‘Glasgow Love Story’ Album – When The Horn Blows

Scotland’s Tide Lines presents their newest album, “Glasgow Love Story,” as a heartfelt dedication to the city they’ve come to cherish over the years. The group, originally hailing from the Highlands, has established themselves as prominent figures in Scotland’s folk-rock scene. With a decade of music under their belts, this fourth album pays homage to the vibrancy and energy of Glasgow, their adopted home.

Tide Lines’ musical journey reflects their hands-on approach to their craft, opting to independently handle recording, production, and distribution. This DIY ethos adds a layer of authenticity to each of their projects, making “Glasgow Love Story” a true labor of love. The album kicks off with “Better Days,” an infectious track radiating optimism and hope for what lies ahead. Ross Wilson’s keyboard prowess infuses a sense of happiness throughout, setting the tone for the collection of songs to follow.

Songs like “Homeward Bound” and the title track, “Glasgow Love Story,” showcase the band’s folk roots, highlighted by exquisite guitar performances from Robert Robertson and Alasdair Turner. The distinctive Scottish accents woven into the vocals, led by Robertson, reflect the influence that Glasgow’s cultural tapestry has had on their music and identity. References to Glasgow’s iconic landmarks pepper the album, offering a glimpse into the band’s appreciation for the city’s charm.

The album’s closing track, “Ashton Lane,” evokes a sense of reflection and nostalgia, symbolizing the band’s growth and experiences over the years. The poignant lyrics capture the fleeting nature of good times and the wistful longing for moments passed. Tide Lines infuse a sense of pride and reverence into their music, paying homage to their Scottish heritage and musical inspirations.

Through tracks like “If I Had Time” and “The Hardest Miles,” the band celebrates their roots with a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. The bagpipe section on “The Hardest Miles” nods to Scotland’s rich musical heritage, while ambient sounds like chirping birds and saxophone embellishments capture the essence of the Scottish landscape.

To coincide with the album’s release, Tide Lines announced ‘The Glasgow Love Story Series,’ featuring intimate shows in notable venues across the country. Sold-out performances at venues like Oran Mor in Glasgow and The Caves in Edinburgh underscore their widespread appeal. The band is gearing up for an extensive tour, including stops at major festivals and renowned venues like London’s O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire.

With “Glasgow Love Story,” Tide Lines invites listeners on a musical journey through their love affair with Glasgow, blending folk traditions with contemporary soundscapes. Through heartfelt lyrics and spirited performances, the band captures the essence of Scotland’s lively music scene and cultural heritage.