SEC Armadillo – Glasgow
21/04/2025
Words: Colin Campbell | Pictures: Ian Potter
Joe Bonamassa’s performance at Glasgow’s SEC Armadillo on 21 April 2025 was a masterclass in blues-rock, but also much more, reaffirming his status as one of the genre’s most electrifying performers. This was the opening night of his current UK tour, and what a way to start – Bonamassa is not just a great entertainer; his guitar skills are truly off the charts. Across a two-hour set, he infused blues, soul, rock, and even touches of gospel into a compilation of old favourites and newer songs.
From the moment the prelude music of the Bar-Kays’ “Soul Finger” faded, the lights rose and it was time for the show to begin. Every Joe Bonamassa concert feels like a major event, and to the packed, adoring Glasgow crowd, it was time to be bedazzled by Joe and his consummate, tight band. The sound and lighting shifted beautifully with the mood of each song. Dressed in a sharp suit and his signature sunglasses, he has true stage presence – Joe Bonamassa is that man.
Setlist & Performance Highlights
The evening featured a dynamic mix of Bonamassa’s classics and newer material. Opening with “Hope You Realize It” from Blues Deluxe Volume 2, the band sprang into action, setting the groove immediately.
In a moody, soulful set, “Dust Bowl” stood out as a highlight, with Bonamassa’s vocals sounding better than ever – crisp and clear throughout, with that sneering timbre cutting through at times. His fretwork on “Twenty-Four Hour Blues” was mesmerising, as he moved around the stage with effortless command.
“Done Got Over It” was upbeat and vibrant, with a searing guitar solo underpinned by the mercurial Reese Wynans on keyboards – a real crowd-pleaser. Then came the master opus, “Self-Inflicted Wounds”, with sonics so powerful it felt like the auditorium would burst. When Jade MacRae unleashed a stunning vocal, the effect was awe-inspiring.
“Shout About It” was another upbeat moment, the rhythm section powering through and Bonamassa again showcasing phenomenal fretwork. The ballad “The Last Matador of Bayonne” was soulful and atmospheric, building towards a phenomenal crescendo. “Pack It Up”, from Blues Deluxe, kept the energy high – Josh Smith’s rhythm guitar work was outstanding, and another brilliant keyboard solo added even more heat to the performance.
Throughout, Bonamassa jammed with the rest of the band, his guitar phrasing phenomenal, and the chemistry between the musicians was electric. When he introduced the band, each member received enthusiastic ovations, with Joe highlighting their journeys to Glasgow – and of course, mentioning how he loved starting a tour here, even joking about being able to “Talk Scottish”. He certainly knows how to work a crowd.
The second half opened with “Heart That Never Waits” – another guitar masterclass – followed by “Hard But It’s Fair”, which brought a big-band feel to the set. Their version of “How Many More Times” swaggered and soared, mashed creatively with “Love Gun” in a strong medley, even featuring an intricate drum solo.
A standing ovation brought them back for the encore, with “Mountain Time” – a fan favourite that seems to evolve every time he plays it, and a magnificent way to end the night. The SEC Armadillo’s acoustics and intimate setting provided the perfect backdrop for Bonamassa’s soulful vocals and intricate guitar work. The audience’s energy was palpable, responding passionately to each and every moment.
With a guitar change for nearly every song, it’s hard to quantify just how good a guitarist Joe Bonamassa really is. His style generates plenty of debate, but one thing is certain – he puts on a top-quality show every time.
Final Thoughts
Bonamassa’s Glasgow concert was far more than just a performance – it was an unforgettable experience. For those who missed it, there are still chances to catch him as he continues his UK tour with upcoming dates in Cardiff, Liverpool, Nottingham, and Brighton, before heading to Cork, Ireland for his special Joe Bonamassa Plays Rory Gallagher shows from 1–3 July. Catch him where you can – he is truly one of the greatest blues guitarists around.
