Live at Oran Mor, Glasgow
Review By Darren McIntyre
There are gigs that live off nostalgia, and then there are nights like this—where legacy, passion, and sheer performance collide to remind you exactly why an artist has stood the test of time. Tonight at Glasgow’s stunning Oran Mor, Carol Decker and T’Pau don’t just revisit the past—they breathe new life into it with a show that is as slick as it is heartfelt.
Formed in 1986 and inspired by a Vulcan elder from Star Trek, T’Pau have carved out a legacy that most bands would envy. With landmark albums like Bridge Of Spies and Rage, alongside a string of unforgettable singles, they’ve remained a constant presence through reinvention and resilience. Now, with the release of their sixth studio album Be Wonderful, this UK tour feels less like a comeback and more like a celebration—and Glasgow is more than ready.
The venue is absolutely packed, the anticipation palpable. As the lights drop and the house PA fades, Carol Decker strides onstage with that unmistakable presence, greeted by a roar that could lift the rafters. There’s an instant connection, and as she smiles out at the crowd, you can tell she’s just as excited to be here as we are.
Opening with “Read My Lips” from the new album, it’s clear from the off that Decker hasn’t lost a single ounce of her vocal power. In fact, she sounds phenomenal—strong, controlled, and brimming with character. It’s a bold move kicking off with new material, but any nerves she admits to feeling are quickly put to bed as the Glasgow crowd embraces it wholeheartedly.
We’re swiftly treated to “Island” from Rage, before diving into deep cuts like “Thank You For Goodbye” and “Valentine” from Bridge Of Spies. These are the moments die-hard fans live for, and the reception proves just how much these songs still resonate. “Secret Garden” follows, adding another layer of atmosphere as the band lock into a groove that feels effortless.
Decker takes a moment to address the crowd, candidly admitting her nerves about introducing new material. But honestly, there was never any need to worry. Tracks like “Casual Remark” and “Stupid Love Song” are met with dancing, cheers, and genuine enthusiasm—slotting seamlessly alongside the classics.
As the set flows on, we’re treated to “Say You Will” from Red and the welcome surprise of “Whenever You Need Me” from The Promise, keeping things fresh and unpredictable. The storytelling between songs adds a personal touch, particularly when Decker shares the tale behind “Echo”, originally written for a Channel 4 documentary that never saw the light of day—her tongue-in-cheek “thank you” to the network drawing huge laughs and cheers.
The band are on absolute fire. Ronnie Rogers’ rhythm work is tight and purposeful, James Ashby delivers soaring lead guitar lines, while Kez Gunes and Dave Hatee form a rock-solid rhythm section. Carsten Moss adds texture and depth with keys and saxophone, elevating the sound to another level.
The title track “Be Wonderful” lands perfectly, the crowd fully invested as the night reaches its peak. Then it’s a run of pure gold—“Sex Talk”, “Heart & Soul”, and “Bridge Of Spies”—each one met with massive singalongs and unrelenting energy.
In a brilliantly playful moment, Decker skips the traditional encore walk-off, joking about space constraints before turning her back to the crowd and spinning around again as we erupt on cue. It’s fun, it’s genuine, and it perfectly sums up the spirit of the night.
Closing with the iconic “China In Your Hand”, the entire venue sings as one, bringing the curtain down on a flawlessly executed show.
Carol Decker was nothing short of sensational—vocally outstanding, engaging, and clearly loving every second. This wasn’t just a gig; it was a masterclass in how to put on a show. Every detail, every transition, every moment felt considered and delivered with passion.
A truly wonderful night in every sense of the word.
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