Live Gallery + Review | Wallows @ O2 Academy, Edinburgh

Wallows

O2 Academy, Edinburgh

15th October 2024

Photography by Uchechi Adeboye (@byuchechi)

Uchechi Adeboye

My name is Uchechi, and I am a 21 year old law student from the north of Scotland. Outside of my studies, I am a avid concert goer and music enthusiast. Photography has also been my passion for as long as I can remember, so getting to combine my two passions through concert photography has been great. When I’m not with my camera or typing with my keyboard, I am enjoying nature with my friends.

After almost two years away, Wallows made the long-awaited return to Scotland in Edinburgh’s O2 Academy

The O2 Academy in Edinburgh was packed to the brim, buzzing with excitement for Wallows‘ long-awaited return to Scotland. You could tell how much their fans missed them—with many fans wearing merch from previous tours and coming to both nights of the Edinburgh shows.

From the moment they took the stage, the lighting set the tone. It wasn’t just for effect; each cue was intentional, perfectly timed to the beat of their songs, pulling the audience in and getting them clapping along. Lighting is not something I usually focus on but it was used in a way that uniquely enhanced the show.

The band’s multi-talented nature was on full display as between songs they would all switch instruments and places. No one felt like the “lead”—it was balanced, with each member getting their moment in the spotlight, and each with a standout solo throughout the set.

Their performance of the new release, ‘Bad Dream‘, was a definite crowd-pleaser, but it was ‘Canada‘ that really stood out, the entire venue sounding like a choir as the audience joined in for the backing vocals. Wallows’ connection with their fans was undeniable, especially when Dylan left the stage and came into the crowd to perform. The screams were deafening—the energy was electric.

I loved the bands playful interactions between songs and and how they embraced local culture by having a Greggs sausage roll earlier that day (Dylan approved!), pleasing the crowd.

The night was filled with highlights. Braeden’s guitar shredding was insane, especially on ‘Uncomfortable,’ where his vocals took center stage. The whole bands growth as vocalists over these recent years is so clear to see.

One of the more intimate moments came when Wallows invited us into their “bedroom,” sitting together with their instruments and playing ‘1980s Horror Film.’ It felt like we were part of something special, a close-knit experience with the band and the crowd sharing a unique connection.

Even with the sweltering heat in the venue, the atmosphere was strong all night long. Despite the fact that Hollywood may be calling Wallows’ name, it’s clear their heart is right here, connected with their Scottish fans.