Sonic PR
Review By Darren McIntyre
Images by Scott Anderson
When you talk about homegrown talent making serious waves, Dea Matrona are right at the top of that list. Hailing from Belfast and proudly flying the flag for modern blues-infused rock, Mollie and Orlaith have come a long way from busking on the streets of their hometown to commanding one of Scotland’s most iconic venues. With millions of YouTube views, a fiercely loyal online following, and support slots alongside the likes of Eagles Of Death Metal, Chris Shiflett and Kris Barras Band under their belts, tonight at the legendary Barrowlands feels like another major step forward.
And what a reception they get.
The Barras is rammed to the gunnels, the famous sprung floor already bouncing before a note is played. As the band wander onstage, there are no grand theatrics — just confidence, instruments in hand, and a hunger to deliver.
Red Button kicks things off with a slick, clean guitar riff before a punchy bass groove bursts through the speakers. The twin vocals instantly lock in, rich and melodic, gliding over a rhythm section that wastes no time setting the tone. It’s tight, funky, and brimming with swagger — the perfect opener to get Glasgow moving.
Without missing a beat, Stuck On You ripples out across the venue. Orlaith’s bass work is thick and delicious, driving that sultry groove straight into the heart of the crowd. The chemistry between Mollie and Orlaith is effortless — they bounce off each other vocally and musically, wandering the stage with growing confidence as Ross keeps everything glued together behind the kit. The Barras is warming up nicely now.
Hate That I Care brings a slightly darker hue. A crisp guitar lick cuts through before the pounding rhythm section takes charge. The emotion in the vocals is palpable — layered, soulful, and delivered with conviction. The crowd responds in kind, hollering back every word as that brooding bassline wraps around the track like velvet thunder. It’s here you truly see the band’s versatility — groove merchants one minute, emotionally charged storytellers the next.
The latest single, Magic Spell, oozes atmosphere from the outset. A brooding intro gives way to a deep, stomping rhythm that allows the vocals to soar. The arrangement breathes beautifully, each element — from the mellow guitar licks to the funky bassline — sitting perfectly in the mix. It’s infectious, gritty, and undeniably cool. You can feel new fans being won over in real time.
By the time So Damn Dangerous lands, the temperature in the Barras has risen a few degrees. The snare cracks sharply as the bass kicks thump through the floorboards. It’s a crowd favourite for good reason — punchy, melodic, and dripping with attitude. The girls look completely at home now, grinning from ear to ear as they let the groove do the talking.
A change of pace arrives with Glory, Glory, I’m Free (Acoustic). Stripped back and heartfelt, it showcases the softer side of Dea Matrona. The harmonies are sublime, delicate yet powerful, filling every corner of the venue. It’s a moment of genuine connection — the crowd hushed, hanging on every note.
They close with My Own Party, a toe-tapping, funk-laced gem that blends mellow grooves with punchy basslines and shimmering cymbal snaps. The bongo rhythm adds a playful edge as the band stretch out musically, locking into a groove that feels both effortless and celebratory. It’s the perfect send-off — upbeat, confident, and brimming with personality.
From busking beginnings to owning the Barrowlands stage, Dea Matrona prove tonight that they are very much the real deal. Tight musicianship, killer harmonies, and an infectious love for what they do — this is a band on the rise, and Glasgow knows it.
Dea Matrona
- Mollie – Vocals / Guitar / Bass
- Orlaith – Vocals / Guitar / Bass
- Declan – Guitar / Acoustic Guitar / Bongos
- Ross – Drums
Setlist
Red Button
Stuck On You
Hate That I Care
Magic Spell
So Damn Dangerous
Glory, Glory I’m Free
My Own Party
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