Review By Darren McIntyre Images By Scott Anderson
There are gigs that you simply enjoy, and then there are gigs that leave an imprint on your soul—the ones that are raw, emotional, and unapologetically real. That’s exactly what happened when Millie Manders and The Shutup stormed into Glasgow Audio on March 28th as part of their Choose The Bear Tour. It was a night that not only showcased their phenomenal musical talent but also highlighted their powerful social message, making it an unforgettable evening.
A Venue That Amplifies the Experience
Glasgow Audio proved to be the perfect setting for a gig like this. Tucked away in the city centre, this intimate venue has a no-frills, gritty charm that puts you right in the heart of the music. The low ceiling, dark walls, and powerful sound system made it feel as though the band was playing right in your face—in the best possible way.
Despite its compact size, Audio punches well above its weight when it comes to atmosphere. The tight space amplified the energy, creating a sense of closeness and connection between the band and the crowd. Every bassline throbbed through the floor, every snare hit snapped in your chest, and Millie’s soaring vocals filled every corner of the room.
Millie Manders – A Force of Nature on Stage
From the moment Millie Manders took the stage, it was clear that this wasn’t going to be your average gig. Bursting with charisma and raw energy, she commanded the crowd with an intensity that was both infectious and empowering. Her voice—a unique blend of ferocity and vulnerability—hit with the force of a tidal wave.
Opening with a burst of energy, the band instantly had the crowd moving, shouting, and dancing. The setlist was a perfect mix of tracks from , “otga, shut you mouth to bitter,”to some fan-favourite anthems. The newly released “Me Too” was a clear highlight—raw, emotional, and brutally honest—it tackled the deeply personal subject of sexual abuse with a blend of vulnerability and defiance that left the room spellbound.
Manders’ stage presence was nothing short of magnetic. She seamlessly moved from roaring punk anthems to moments of delicate vulnerability, holding the crowd in the palm of her hand. Her ability to channel both rage and tenderness into her performance was breathtaking—a testament to her authenticity as an artist.
The Band – Tight, Fiery, and Relentless
Backing Manders was a band that was tight, fearless, and utterly relentless. The musicianship on display was second to none—with blistering guitar riffs, thumping basslines, and pounding drums driving the set with raw, unyielding energy.
The band’s chemistry was palpable, and their joy in performing together was infectious. You could feel it in the locked-in grooves, the spontaneous smiles exchanged mid-song, and the way they fed off the crowd’s energy. The ska-punk influence added a playful yet defiant edge to their sound, creating an irresistible blend of punk aggression and infectious melody.
A Setlist That Hit Hard and Stayed With You
The set was a rollercoaster of emotion and energy. From the fist-pumping anthems to the more vulnerable, reflective moments, Millie Manders and The Shutup took the audience on a ride.
“Me Too” was a standout moment—raw, emotionally charged, and deeply impactful. The crowd stood in rapt silence, absorbing every lyric, before erupting into applause. It was one of those rare, powerful live music moments that felt almost sacred.
Tracks like “Bitter” and “windows” ignited the room with their fierce punk energy, while silant screams ” gave the crowd a chance to belt out every word in unison, turning the venue into a singalong sanctuary of defiance.
The show ended with a blistering finale, leaving the crowd sweaty, breathless, and craving more. You could see it on everyone’s faces—this was a gig that would linger long after the final note.
More Than Just a Gig – A Statement of Purpose
What makes Millie Manders and The Shutup so compelling isn’t just their incredible musicality—it’s their fearless commitment to using their platform for change. Their tour coincides with the release of the limited-edition Angry Ted Plushie, with proceeds going toward sexual and domestic abuse charities. It’s more than just a merch item—it’s a symbol of the band’s dedication to making a difference.
That sense of purpose infused the entire night, giving the performance an extra layer of emotional weight and authenticity. It wasn’t just about playing music—it was about raising voices, sparking conversations, and standing in solidarity with survivors.
Final Thoughts – A Gig That Stays With You
Millie Manders and The Shutup’s performance at Glasgow Audio was more than just a great gig—it was a statement. It was fierce, fiery, and unforgettable, with a perfect balance of punk attitude and emotional vulnerability.
For those who were there, it was an experience that left a mark. For those who missed it? Don’t make that mistake again. Millie Manders and The Shutup aren’t just a band to watch—they’re a band to believe in.
If you get the chance to see them live, grab it with both hands—you won’t be disappointed.
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