Wild Nothing @ Captain’s Rest 28/7/2010

It’s time again for the sound of 2010 to hit Glasgow. Tonight’s headliner, Wild Nothing, is the latest act to be labeled ‘dream pop’ that has set eyes a sparkling the world over, fans and critics alike.

The solo project of Virginia born Jack Tatum, tonight performing as a four-piece, visits Glasgow for the first time, promoting debut album Gemini.

Support tonight comes from Glasgow’s own Barn Owl, who treat us to calm wave of a set. The five-piece seem confident in their groove but outside of it the nerves look apparent. Despite this the twinkling of a xylophone and the occasion tune reminiscent of laid back Los Campesinos! the band form a delightful opener.

Tonight there is surprisingly room to move in Rest, which is odd considering the hype Wild Nothing has been receiving and the tiny venue. Still, the relatively few in attendance are treated a shy yet refined performance courtesy of this talented young man, who is continually gaining a deserved recognition.

The clattering of ‘Chinatown’ opens the set on an upbeat tone before Tatum drags us into a deep yet dreamy sulk, so brilliantly captured by this genres best, who Wild Nothing is among.

The beautiful album opener ‘Live in Dreams’ forms a stand out of the set as Tatum sings “that’s exactly why I’d rather live in dreams and I rather die” and the crowd grows ever closer to the glazed swagger evoked by he constant rhythm of Tatum’s backing.

Then the glaze is blasted open as the most danceable beat of the night hits the floor, as Tatum and co hit into arguably the albums most pop track ‘Bored Games’. Tatum keeps the high ground and ends the set on an optimistic point with current single and almost twee delight ‘Summer Holiday’.

The shy frontman leaves us on an apology, firstly for not being the most talkative onstage, this he is instantly forgiven, and once again as the crowd chants for more he shyly announces that they had this last night but they have no more songs.

Wild Nothing may not be dripping with the pop sensibilities that the more popular members of this scene embody, however, both live and record he has is a gem which will be cherished by many who have taken this scene to heart.