American singer FLETCHER put on a storm of a performance at the O2 Academy Glasgow, bringing her ‘In Search of the ANTIDOTE’ tour to the Scottish city. With support from alt-rock duo ARXX from Brighton, it was not a night to miss. The venue of the sold-out show very quickly filled from top to bottom with eager fans. It had been rumoured that FLETCHER’s shows were ones like no other; a true performer with raging talent and stage presence. This statement proved entirely true.
The evening began with support from ARXX, featuring vocalist and guitarist Hanni Pidduck alongside drummer Clara Townsend. They opened with their 2022 single ‘Deep’ from their 2023 album Ride or Die. This track, with its infectious pop undertones, captures bold self-assurance and the determination to leave troubles behind. It radiated energy, setting the perfect tone to rev up the Glasgow crowd. Throughout their performance, Hanni showcased an extraordinary vocal range and dynamic stage presence, while Clara’s precision on the drums was breathtaking, providing a solid backbone to the show. Despite being a duo, their sound filled the entire O2 stage cathartically. ARXX’s sound was made to be heard by thousands. Hanni and Clara engaged with the audience, sharing personal anecdotes and their songs’ origins. Hanni proudly shared that ARXX are longtime admirers of FLETCHER, enhancing their connection with the audience.
Their storytelling continued with an explanation behind their latest single, ‘Crying in the Car Wash’, which was inspired by the pivotal moment they received the life-changing offer to tour with MUNA (their favourite band) while they were at a car wash. This led seamlessly into a stellar performance of the song. ARXX concluded their set with ‘Ride or Die’, the title track of their debut album. The crowd was invited to join in on the vocals, and as expected from Glaswegians, they did not disappoint. As their set ended, the energy in the room was palpable, leaving the audience charged and eager for FLETCHER’s set.
The background music then faded and an electrifying aura filled the air as pulsating lights and visuals dominated the stage. The excitement was reached when, amidst a dramatic play of lights, FLETCHER appeared atop a massive screen backdrop, with her band on the stage beneath, triggering a deafening roar from the crowd. FLETCHER kicked off her set with ‘Maybe I Am’ from her latest album. The song, a blend of incredible lyrics and a compelling beat, speaks to self-discovery and the embracing of one’s true self, resonating deeply with fans. As the empowering lyrics flashed across the screen, it was clear that FLETCHER’s presence was the true spectacle. Her dynamic energy and charisma captivated everyone, drawing all eyes to her performance.
FLETCHER then descended to the main stage. There wasn’t a still moment as she danced and sang with relentless enthusiasm, her energy infectious. At one point during the set, FLETCHER grabbed a video camera, turning it on the audience to project their faces onto the large screen, thrilling the fans. She continued to use the camera to interact with the crowd, spotlighting fans’ signs, one of which read “rate my tats” leading to a playful exchange about a fan’s tattoos. In a particularly touching moment, she came down to a fan at the front of the crowd who stated they had the same last name as her and jokingly checked her ID. These personal interactions underscored the deep bond between FLETCHER and her fans, highlighting her appreciation for them and her witty personality.
During FLETCHER’s conversation with the crowd, the energy escalated with a spontaneous “no Scotland, no party” chant, with both the band and crowd participating in full force, showcasing the strong Scottish support for the American artist. FLETCHER consistently moved between the main stage and the towering screen, ensuring there was never a dull moment during the set. Her setlist was a mix of new tracks and beloved classics such as ‘All Love’ and ‘Undrunk’, with the crowd singing along to every word. At times, the fans’ voices were so loud it was difficult to hear FLETCHER, a true testament to their enthusiasm.
A Glasgow exclusive that hadn’t been sung yet on tour was the song ‘For Cari’, a tune from her 2022 album Girl Of My Dreams. This excited fans as a sharp shriek was let out when it started playing. After an endearing encore, the concert culminated with the classics ‘Doing Better’ and ‘Becky’s So Hot’, a charged and vibrant track with a bold and catchy rhythm, the atmosphere was left electric. As the final notes rang out, the crowd was left in awe. FLETCHER’s performance was a display of her incredible musical talent and stage presence, as well as her genuine connection with fans, highlighting the joy of live music and leaving an indelible mark on the Scottish audience.
Written by: Amanda MacEachen
Photographed by: Amanda MacEachen
Edited by: Shanna Henselmans
