Concert Review: Buckcherry, Michael Monroe, and Rubikon at SWG3 in Glasgow on March 1, 2026
My recent journey to Glasgow led me to SWG3, a venue that I hold dear despite its somewhat remote location. Two train rides later, I found myself at the Buckcherry and Michael Monroe co-headline tour, featuring US openers Rubikon. Although I wasn’t familiar with Rubikon, the prospect of the evening seemed promising.
Rubikon, self-proclaimed as “The Greatest (Opening) Band of All Time,” set the tone with their performance. Touring in support of their latest album, Wasteland, the band delivered a mix of new and older tracks. Starting with the engaging “Live That Lie,” the band showcased Jae’s compelling vocals, backed by solid instrumentation. As they transitioned to “Chickfight,” the song’s Pearl Jam influence was evident, capturing the audience’s attention with its captivating groove. Tracks like “Down” and “Welcome Mat” kept the energy high, leading to a crowd-pleasing Biffy Clyro cover to wrap up their set. Despite being around for 25 years, Rubikon’s performance left a lasting impression on me, showcasing their prowess in American rock ‘n’ roll.
The anticipation was palpable as the audience awaited Michael Monroe’s arrival on stage. The revered rock icon wasted no time, diving into classics like “Dead, Jail or Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Pulling from his Hanoi Rocks catalog, the band delivered hits like “Motorvatin'” and “Malibu Beach Nightmare,” exuding raw energy and charisma. Tracks from Two Steps from the Move and Demolition 23 were also on the setlist, showcasing Monroe’s enduring talent and stage presence. Newer tracks like “Rockin’ Horse” and “Disconnected” kept the momentum going, culminating in a rousing CCR cover to close out the set. Monroe’s performance was a testament to his enduring appeal and showmanship, leaving the audience in awe.
Closing out the night was Buckcherry, making a triumphant return to the stage with hits like “Lit Up” and “Roar Like Thunder.” The band’s electrifying energy and powerhouse vocals drew the audience in, setting the stage for a memorable performance. Tracks like “Blackout” and “Let It Burn” showcased their guitar prowess, while fan favorites like “Ridin'” and “Come On” kept the crowd engaged. The set concluded with an extended version of “Crazy Bitch,” leaving the audience on a high note and cementing the evening as a celebration of pure rock ‘n’ roll.
Overall, the night at SWG3 was a testament to the enduring power of rock music, with three bands delivering stellar performances that left a lasting impression. From Rubikon’s engaging opener to Michael Monroe’s iconic presence and Buckcherry’s high-octane set, the evening was a showcase of talent and energy that left attendees with unforgettable memories. Cheers to a night of rock ‘n’ roll at its finest.