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The Backline Newsletter - Issue 22
Issue 22
Allan Watson
October 16, 2025
The Backline Newsletter
Issue 22 - Thursday, 16th 2025
Editorial
This week we’re keeping things heartfelt and hopeful. Liv Dawn takes the spotlight. A Stirling singer-songwriter whose warm, folky pop has been turning heads everywhere from open mics to the Barrowlands. We’ve also got lush chorus tones for bassists, a few must-see gigs that swing from cinematic pop to fiery alt-rock, and a familiar face back with brand new music. Let’s dive in.
Spotlight Q&A
This Week’s Feature Artist: Liv Dawn
This week we’re chatting with Liv Dawn, the rising Scottish singer-songwriter blending heartfelt folk and uplifting pop. From open mics in Glasgow to the legendary Barrowland Ballroom, Liv’s journey is all about warmth, honesty, and connection.
1. Who’s in your live band, and what do they play?
My band members are Aidan Smith (piano/backing vocals), Chris Gilday (electric guitar), and Calum Macleod (drums). I sing and play acoustic guitar.
2. Describe your sound in 5 words or less.
Uplifting and heartfelt folk-pop music.
3. What was your first gig as an artist?
One of my first gigs was an open mic in the Southside of Glasgow where I was the featured artist and I absolutely loved it!
4. Biggest show so far and how did it feel?
Supporting Tide Lines at their sold out show in December last year. The place was really busy when I was performing and the audience were lovely. I got such an adrenaline rush and it was an incedible experience!
5. Which Scottish venue feels like home?
I think either The Tolbooth in Stirling or The Hug and Pint on Great Western Road always feel like home to me. The Tolbooth is a lovely venue near to where I stay and I recently played a headline show there. The Hug and Pint was where I played my first ever headline show and I have many memories there.
6. If someone’s never heard of you what song should they start with?
‘Pretty People’ would be a good song to start with as I think it clearly represents my songwriting with themes of nature, love and hope. It is also one of my favourite songs of my own!
7. One band or artist you’d love to open for?
I would love to open for an Irish artist called Dermot Kennedy. I have listened to and adored his music for years. I admire his songwriting and I am always really inspired by his songs!
8. What do you think of pay-to-play gigs?
I definitely do not agree with pay-to-play gigs and I am really glad that many people and organisations within the music industry, as well as artists, are not standing for this anymore.
9. One band or artist that shaped you but no one would expect?
I got brought up listening to a lot of Johnny Cash and I think his songwriting and country style influenced me.
10. What’s your biggest “I’ve made it” moment so far?
I feel like I have had many 'I've made it moments' so far but I think playing the Barrowlands was a huge one for me! I am trying to make most of all the moments within my music journey by celebrating the small wins and appreciating everything I have achieved. Some very memorable moments for me include playing festivals in the Highlands, going on my first tour this summer, writing and releasing new songs I am really proud of, being played on BBC Introducing, having the chance to support bands such as Tom Walker, Tide Lines and Del Amitri.
Connect with : Liv
Essential Gear - MXR Bass Chorus Deluxe
Why we love it:
The MXR Bass Chorus Deluxe brings shimmering, analog warmth to your tone, lush and dimensional without muddying the low end.
What it does:
Classic bucket-brigade circuitry plus an X-Over switch to keep your low frequencies tight and punchy.
Best for:
Bassists who want chorus depth without losing clarity, perfect for post-punk, indie, and 80s textures.
Try it if you like:
Peter Hook, Duff McKagan, or anyone chasing that clean, wide chorus tone.
Bonus tip:
Blend with light overdrive and reverb to create dreamy, melodic bass layers that cut through any mix.
Gig of the Week
THE DIVINE COMEDY - 20th October, Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow
Neil Hannon’s wry wit and orchestral pop return to Glasgow for what’s sure to be a masterclass in songwriting. Expect sharp suits, sweeping arrangements, and that signature mix of humour and heartbreak, providing proof that clever pop can still hit you right in the chest.
Best of the Rest
LIZZIE ESAU - 17th October, The Poetry Club, Glasgow
One of the UK’s most exciting emerging alt-pop voices, Lizzie Esau blends emotional storytelling with layered, atmospheric production. Her live shows mix intimacy and intensity, a name you’ll want to say you saw early.
WENDY JAMES - 22nd October, King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow and 23rd October, Cabaret Voltaire, Edinburgh
The Transvision Vamp frontwoman brings her high voltage glam punk energy back to Scotland. Expect biting lyrics, snarling guitars, and a stage presence that’s equal parts danger and charisma, a reminder that true rock icons never really fade.
Friends of The Backline
Last week we caught up with our friends We’re Not Scared of Robots, who are back with a brand new lineup and a single out tomorrow - “Voodoo” Pre-save here
Get Involved
Got a story from the rehearsal room, a feature you would like to see, a gig pick, or a gear review you want to share, or just want to plug some great Scottish music, suggest a band or get featured? Have you attended our gig pick - write a review we may feature it a future issue.
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