Few bands embody the raw energy and emotional depth of Scottish alternative rock quite like Twin Atlantic. Hailing from Glasgow, this four-piece outfit has spent nearly two decades carving out a distinct sound that blends soaring melodies, anthemic choruses, and a signature Glaswegian vocal delivery. Currently on their headline UK tour, fans can expect electrifying performances at 2000 Trees in Cheltenham and a triumphant homecoming show at TRNSMT in Glasgow. Tonight was their chance to wow the crowd that had congregated at Exeter Phoenix on June 5th to see them in action, read on to see how they got on….

Before we dive into the Exeter show, here’s a bit of background for anyone who may not be aware. The band formed in 2007, and quickly gained traction with their debut EP, A Guidance from Colour, followed by their mini-album Vivarium (2009). Their breakthrough came with 2011’s Free, an album that solidified their reputation for crafting emotionally charged rock anthems. Over the years, they’ve released seven studio albums, including Great Divide, GLA, Power, Transparency, and their latest, Meltdown.

Kodi, the opening act of the night, proved to be a refreshing complement to Twin Atlantic's high-octane performance. Their set was a bold statement of intent, showcasing both their latest single and the infectious energy of their debut track, "Figure it Out," which had recently begun to make waves.

As Twin Atlantic took to the stage, armed with a setlist that danced between nostalgia and reinvention. The energy was electrifying from the very first song, as the band opened with the rousing anthem "Salvation." The track set the tone for the night, capturing everyone’s attention—a promise of the unforgettable journey that was about to unfold.

No sooner had the opening chords settled than the band launched into their hit single "No Sleep," igniting an instant sing-along fever. The crowd, familiar with the anthemic chorus, belted out every word in unison. The joy and collective energy in the room was clear as Twin Atlantic’s tore through their back catalogue, reaffirming that some songs really do stand the test of time.

As the set progressed, "Hold On" followed—a tender yet electrifying ballad that found its space within the roaring intensity of the night. The lyrics hit home as the band intertwined raw emotion with technical precision, reminding the audience of the band’s knack for balancing passion with grit. It was during this track that the enigmatic stage presence of their original drummer, Craig Kneale, shone brightly; this being his fifth gig back behind the drums, his performance was a celebration of reunion.

Soon after, the band leapt into "Valhalla," a track notorious for its epic instrumentation and mythic flair. The atmosphere grew almost cinematic as Twin Atlantic’s guitars—proudly displayed on meticulously arranged racks beside the stage—ripped through the night air, crafting soundscapes that were both a nod to their past and a declaration of their present. The music was as much a visual spectacle as it was an aural triumph, celebrating the band’s evident love for their craft and their instruments.

Maintaining the momentum and showing their flair for theatrical storytelling, the night wound its way to the introspective yet defiant "Get Famous." The lyrics, steeped in both irony and sincerity, invited the room into a candid conversation about success and failure—a conversation punctuated by humorous asides from the frontman. He even recounted the fabled Exeter escapade of their early days at The Cavern, where a van breakdown and a near-empty crowd became the stuff of rock ‘n’ roll lore. Amid the reminiscences, he humorously addressed a long-standing myth about that debut gig, asking if THAT guy was here tonight, silence, clearly not, he then quipped, “so we must have been really shit,” which drew laughter and applause from an already warm crowd.

The evening wasn’t without its quirky, live-music authenticity. In a moment that perfectly encapsulated the night, a persistent heckler’s call of "get naked" was met with a cheeky "you first," sending the room into peals of laughter.

Later, a fan’s casual inquiry about the new Rangers manager sparked an impromptu football conversation—revealing behind-the-scenes alliances and rivalries, with half the band ardent Rangers fans and the other two loyal to Celtic. It was these candid, unscripted moments that gave the show its magic, making it clear that Twin Atlantic isn’t just about music; they’re about creating a shared experience—a communal memory that will linger long after the show ends.

Their performance at Exeter Phoenix wove together the threads of their greatest hits, personal anecdotes, and the undeniable chemistry of a band that has grown and evolved over time. Their deliberate choice of set captured both the volatile energy and introspective soul of their musical journey. It was a fitting reminder that in the world of live music, even the most humbling beginnings can lead to moments of extraordinary, unforgettable brilliance.

Setlist

Salvation

No Sleep

Hold On

Valhalla

Make a Beast of Myself

Yes I Was Drunk

Free

World Class Entertainment

Get Famous

Meltdown

The Chaser