For a band like Wolf Alice, who have worked tirelessly over the past decade to rise through the ranks of the British music scene, they’ve certainly encountered their fair share of rough and ready gigs. From dingy dressing rooms to crumbling venues and indifferent crowds, they’ve paid their dues. These struggles are familiar to many aspiring artists, but it’s the bands like Wolf Alice who, through perseverance, reap the rewards of hard-earned success.
Despite the challenges, there have been some memorable highlights along the way, and for the band, one venue stands out above the rest: the legendary Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow.
Located in the heart of the Barras Market, the Barrowland Ballroom is a vibrant beacon in the city’s live music scene. It’s a venue famed for its neon glow and magnetic pull, attracting both seasoned gig-goers and tourists eager to see that iconic sign lit up in all its technicolour glory. Even as Wolf Alice has now moved on to larger arenas, lead singer Ellie Rowsell still holds the Barrowland near and dear to her heart.
Rowsell described the venue as “one of my favourite independent venues in the world” and praised the “real romanticism” that makes it so special. She added, “I love everything about it—the flashing neon sign, the sprung wooden floors, the carpeted dressing room that looks like your grandad’s favourite boozer.” But beyond its charm and aesthetic appeal, it’s the spirit of the place that truly captivates her.
“It always draws a fantastic crowd,” Rowsell noted. “Scottish people know how to enjoy live music.” She also recommended that anyone visiting Glasgow should “soak up the atmosphere and drink a few pints of Tennent’s,” with the brewery practically just around the corner, ensuring that fans get the freshest beer straight from the source.
Whether it’s the nostalgia of the sprung floors or the lively atmosphere created by the crowd, the Barrowland Ballroom holds a unique allure. Even bigger artists like Wolf Alice find themselves yearning for the intimate vibe of a 1,900-capacity venue after playing to thousands in larger arenas.
Rowsell’s reflections on the venue also serve as a reminder to appreciate what’s in front of you. It’s easy to focus on the next goal—arenas, stadiums, world domination—but sometimes, all it takes is a small crowd, a starry ceiling, and one very special neon sign to make you reconsider what truly matters. For Wolf Alice, the Barrowland will always be a place that captures their heart and their music in a way that larger venues just can’t replicate.