The Shins @ Barrowlands

Despite their global fanbase and nigh on universal appeal, The Shins will always be a loveable indie band. Having seen them stranded on the unforgiving main stage at Leeds Festival this summer, and read the lukewarm report that emanated from these sheets following their Fringe date at the Brobdingnagian Corn Exchange, a switch to the more genial confines of the Barrowlands is a logical and overdue move, and ultimately one which helps them into 2008 with their live reputation still intact. Sporting his trademark porkpie headpiece, frontman James Mercer's mellifluous and unique delivery encircles the crowd, drawing them in bulbous formation to the front of the stage. A back catalogue of harmonies lined up one after the other makes for an impressive artillery: the 'doo-wahs' of Phantom Limb alongside the marvellous Kissing The Lipless. Kudos to The Shins for finally recognising that intimacy is their friend. Now then lads, how about a residency? [Finbarr Bermingham]