Pillow Queens @ Glad Cafe, Glasgow, 15 Apr

Having been on tour for six days (a fact quickly established by the band on stage), Dublin-based four-piece Pillow Queens are match fit and clearly delighted to be playing their first Scottish date tonight. Their set, although short, is full of the kind of punk energy reminiscent of the riot grrrl scene of the 90s, and their self-deprecating wit has the Glad Cafe crowd chuckling between songs as the band debate how well each songs is played. There’s a gloriously DIY, slightly ramshackle atmosphere about the gig and the band themselves, and there’s a feeling of fun coming from both the band and the audience.

Amidst driving drums and guitar swapping it's revealed to be guitarist Cathy McGuinness’ first time ever in Scotland and when quizzed on this by her bandmates she reveals the place has quickly made an impression. The intensity of the band transfers to a crowd that swells to fill the small venue. Songs are mostly taken from their new State of the State EP and Puppets is as much a highlight live as on record. Rats, from their previous Calm Girls EP closes the show leading to a bit of an audience singalong.

Pillow Queens are gaining a strong following across the Irish Sea, and after delivering a solid first gig on Scottish soil they'll no doubt be receiving the same accolades here soon enough.