Sweden’s chaotic post-punk heroes Viagra Boys brought their Infinite Anxiety tour to a sold-out Barrowland Ballroom, delivering a riotous, unforgettable night of noise and sweat.
On a sun-drenched Bank Holiday Monday, Glasgow’s iconic Barrowland Ballroom played host to the Swedish post-punk provocateurs, Viagra Boys, as they stormed through their ‘Infinite Anxiety’ tour, promoting their latest album, Viagr Aboys. The venue was at full capacity, with fans eager to witness the band’s signature blend of chaos and charisma.
Opening the evening was Stockholm’s own Boko Yout, the stage persona of Paul Adamah. Dressed in matching scout uniforms, Boko Yout and his band delivered a genre-defying set he describes as “Afro Grunge,” fusing punk energy with African rhythms. His dynamic performance, including a foray into the crowd, set an electrifying tone for the night.
As the lights dimmed, anticipation reached a fever pitch. Viagra Boys took the stage, launching into their latest single, “Man Made of Meat.” Frontman Sebastian Murphy, shirtless and tattooed, commanded attention with his blend of sardonic wit and raw energy. The band’s setlist spanned their discography, featuring tracks like “Slow Learner,” “Punk Rock Loser,” and “Ain’t No Thief,” each met with fervent enthusiasm.
The rhythm section, anchored by bassist Henrik Höckert and drummer Tor Sjödén, provided a thunderous backbone, while Oskar Carls on saxophone and Elias Jungqvist on keyboards added layers of texture. Guitarist Linus Hillborg, seemingly unfazed amidst the frenzy, anchored the band’s sound with precision.
Viagra Boys’ performance at the Barrowland Ballroom was a masterclass in controlled chaos, blending raw energy with musical prowess. Their ability to engage and energize the crowd underscores their status as a must-see live act. With the Infinite Anxiety tour in full swing, fans across Europe and North America are in for a treat.
Words and pictures: Kevin Rooney @knkography