I last went to see Dylan John Thomas just over 2 years ago at a venue that was exactly half the capacity of NX, which is where he was performing this time around. This is a testament to the Glaswegian artist’s remarkable ability to attract a rapidly growing fanbase by writing songs that just seem to land with people in an exceptional way, and the atmosphere of being amongst such an enthusiastic crowd was electric.

Funnily enough, Murdo Mitchell was the support act for both of these shows. I remember being really impressed by the fresh, authentic talent that Mitchell brought last time; you could tell he hadn’t forgotten his roots as a busker on the streets of Glasgow, despite having grown so much as an artist since then. However, in the 2 years since that gig he has not just grown, but blossomed - he commanded the stage with a renewed confidence that meant he was performing his music rather than just playing it. It was also really exciting to hear some of the new music he’s been writing lately, which shone even more than his crowd-pleasing covers of ‘Sit Down’ and ‘She’s Electric’. Really hope a full-length album is on the cards for this guy soon.

As Dylan opened his set with the instantly recognisable vibraphone melody of his hit ‘Jenna’, the crowd erupted into a frenzy that didn’t cease for the entire gig - they bounced, moshed, chanted and knew all the lyrics, flying Scottish flags and donning big curly wigs (Dylan’s impressive hair has become an important part of his image). It is so heartwarming to see an audience so devoted to an artist who is still pretty up and coming.

Though Dylan is at his best when he’s performing his upbeat, indie anthems, his more stripped back and heartfelt songs are really something special too. Hearing “Wake Up Ma” live, a raw depiction of Dylan’s life in foster care, gave me chills; when singing this particular song, his vocals take on this transcendental power that transforms what in his other songs is a charismatic Glaswegian twang, into the voice of a young boy pleading for his mother.

Whether he had the crowd on their feet or in their feelings, Dylan John Thomas strummed and sang his way into their hearts. I have no doubts that he’ll be playing an even bigger venue whenever I next catch him.

Leanna Thomson