Glasvegas

Glasvegas Overview:

Glasvegas hail from Glasgow, Scotland, playing rock music rich with modern-rock sensibilities and a slightly retro garage-band energy. The quartet have been a bit of a sensation in Europe, earning rave reviews from the U.K. press. They hope to find similar success in the United States when their self-titled debut arrives in America at the beginning of 2009.

Glasvegas’ Origins:

Glasvegas formed in the middle of the 2000s. Frontman and songwriter James Allan teamed up with his cousin, guitarist Rab Allan, to start the band. James later recruited bassist Paul Donoghue, who was a buddy of his, and drummer Caroline McKay. The band’s big break came when they attracted the attention of famed U.K. music mogul Alan McGee, who became their manager. They released a series of singles, including the popular and acclaimed “Daddy’s Gone,” which lead to them being courted by several labels. Eventually, Glasvegas signed with Columbia Records.

Debut Album:

Glasvegas released their self-titled debut in September 2008 in the U.K. European critics were largely positive about Glasvegas, comparing it favorably to the work of Oasis, the Jesus and Mary Chain, and Phil Spector’s girl-group aesthetic. The album was released in the United States on January 6, 2009.

Glasvegas Lineup:

James Allan – vocals, guitar
Rab Allan – guitar
Paul Donoghue – bass
Caroline McKay – drums

Key Glasvegas Songs:

“Geraldine” (Purchase/Download)
“Daddy’s Gone” (Purchase/Download)
“Go Square Go” (Purchase/Download)

Glasvegas Discography:

Glasvegas (2008)

Glasvegas Quotes:

James Allan, on his unlikely road to starting a band.
“I never bought records when I was at school. I just played football. I had my guard up against a lot of music. Even with my sister I would always say, ‘I hate music, I just like football.’” (The Independent, February 1, 2008)

James Allan, on the band’s development.
“Glasvegas right now are finding their feet. Back at the start we only knew two chords, whereas now we know maybe six.” (The Independent, February 1, 2008)

Rab Allan, on the band’s sound.
“I’d describe the music quite simply as a bunch of people playing together who are too stupid to know what their limitations are.” (The List, August 21, 2008)

Glasvegas Trivia:

• Before drumming in Glasvegas, Caroline McKay had never played the instrument before – she had been working in a clothing store when James Allan met her.
• James Allan is a big Elvis Presley fan.
• James Allan played for two Scottish football clubs: Falkirk and Gretna.