gigs & glitter.

In its tenth year, and featuring performances from Franky’s Evil Party, One Nine and The Cosmic Dead, the 2019 Scottish Alternative Music Awards (SAMAs), was going to be a big one.

Saint Lukes is one of my favourite Glasgow music venues and is the perfect host to the SAMAs. Under the fairy lights and giant disco ball, hosts Jim Gellatly and Leyla Josephine kicked off proceedings by introducing Franky’s Evil Party to the stage.

It was then on to the awards – Best Hip Hop for Steg G, and Best Metal went to Inferem. The SAMAs is all about the live music, and treated as much like a gig as it is an awards ceremony; up next were electronic duo One Nine, who, admittedly, I hadn’t listened to before Friday. I highly recommend a wee listen if you’re in the same situation; I’m now a firm fan.

Back to handing out the awards, and Best Acoustic went to the fabulous Zoe Graham (I’m so excited about this!), Best Electronic went to Ok Button, and Best Rock/Alternative went to the Snuts (via someone’s mum and a video message – as they’re off on tour at the moment!)

Best Newcomer was scooped by the very deserving VanIves and the final award of the night, Best Live Act, was given to The Vegan Leather – on the release day of their (very good,) debut album! You can see for yourself how good their live set is when they play King Tuts on Saturday (2nd November) too.

Rounding off the night, the Cosmic Dead took to the stage and blew everyone away, in the best way.

The SAMAs have become such an important night in the Scottish Music calendar and one of my favourite events to attend. I also love that you can wander in knowing that you’ll not get much further than the front door without running into someone you know!