On a cold November night, with the aftermath of the American election hanging in the air, there’s nothing more welcome than an evening of angry yet relaxing punk music in a warm and cosy venue. Lucky then that Softcult is on hand, ready to utilise the discomfort in the air and bring some much-needed rebellion.

The night opens on a sweet note thanks to the melodies of stylish indie band Beach Lab, whose dream pop would have me lost in a happy trance if not for the fact that guitarist Louis Takooree looks exactly like my secondary school Modern Studies teacher (I’m pretty sure he’s not). For those in the crowd not sharing my confusion though, the trance is fully active and only broken by Softcult’s dramatic arrival.

A soulful band with elements of grunge, shoegaze, and limitless frustration, Softcult knows exactly how to work their crowd. Comprised of twin siblings Phoenix and Mercedes Arn-Horn, the band emphasise a message of loud music and even louder politics. At first glance, you would be forgiven for missing Phoenix, who sits at the back of the stage almost blending into the darkness. However, when the music starts and the loud, passionate drumming takes over, you can’t miss them. Mercedes meanwhile takes centre stage, effortlessly commanding the room with her captivating eyeliner and even more captivating presence.

Touring their most recent album Heaven, the band showcase their characteristic anger as they work through a roster of powerful songs with important themes relating to issues such as abuse, misogyny, and equal rights. Between songs, Mercedes takes every opportunity to passionately express the band’s rage, something the Glasgow crowd has no problem relating to. Among the general anger, particular themes emerge with highlights including chants of “eat the rich” and a general disregard for a certain political party. Sure, there are moments where the discourse feels more akin to a drunken post-night out rambling than an important message, but this in fact proves even more relatable.

As the night goes on the band takes the crowd through a range of songs and emotions with soft, swaying tunes like ‘Drain’ and ‘House of Mirrors’ interspersed alongside angrier fan favourites like ‘BWBB’ and ‘Gaslight’. It all culminates in a perfect finale, when the band let it be known there will not be an encore, so everyone better let all their energy out for the last song. A moment of refreshing honesty that results in untapped enthusiasm and the chance to get home early. For that alone, they’ve earned a good review.

With this tour, Softcult continue to prove themselves a memorable and impactful experience deserving of their name. With the world as it currently is, bands like this with pretty artwork and not-so-pretty lyrics continue to be needed. We can only hope Softcult intends to tour for at least the next four years.