Florence Welch unleashed an unforgettable night at Glasgow’s Hydro on 9 February 2026, marking the opening of her highly anticipated tour for the new album *Everybody Scream*. This performance transcended the boundaries of a typical concert, transforming into a cathartic communal experience that resonated deeply with the audience, primarily composed of young women.
A Journey Through Heartache and Healing
Since bursting onto the scene with her debut album *Lungs* in 2009, Welch has carved a unique niche in the music world, deftly merging pop and alt-rock while confronting life’s most profound challenges. Her lyrics delve into themes of obsessive love, mortality, and the mystical forces of nature. With *Everybody Scream*, she channels her personal journey through grief and resilience, stemming from her harrowing experience of a miscarriage and near-death encounter in 2023.
The stage, adorned with thick orange-draped curtains and imagery of healing herbs, set a mystical tone for the evening. As the audience engaged in a guessing game, identifying plants like raspberry and shepherd’s purse, anticipation filled the air. When Welch and her “Witch Choir” graced the stage, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. The opening track, “Everybody Scream,” erupted with thunderous percussion and haunting harmonies, capturing the raw intensity of her emotional landscape.
A Performance Rich in Visuals and Emotion
Choreographed by Ryan Heffington, the Witch Choir added a theatrical dimension to the show, moving in a way that evoked scenes from the cult classic *Suspiria*. Welch, clad in a flowing gothic gown, commanded the stage, her powerful voice resonating with both vulnerability and strength.
As the night unfolded, the setlist artfully intertwined new material with beloved classics. Each song felt like a conversation, particularly during the emotive rendition of “Shake It Out,” which enveloped the sold-out venue of 14,300 fans in warmth and connection. The ethereal sounds of “Cosmic Love” and the jubilant “Dog Days Are Over” served as guiding lights, bolstered by robust drumming and cascading harp melodies beneath Welch’s captivating vocals.
Addressing Gender Dynamics in the Music Industry
In a poignant moment during the encore, the song “One of the Greats” highlighted the ongoing struggles women face within the music industry. Welch engaged with lead guitarist Robert Ackroyd in a playful exchange, addressing the disparity in creative freedom between genders. “It must be nice to be a man and make boring music just because you can,” she quipped, sparking laughter while underscoring a serious message about equality in the arts.
What transpired throughout the evening was more than just a performance; it was a shared ritual of healing and empowerment. Welch and the audience formed a powerful bond, united in a collective act of catharsis that reverberated long after the final notes faded.
Why it Matters
Florence Welch’s tour opening in Glasgow exemplifies the power of music as a vehicle for emotional expression and social commentary. In a world fraught with challenges, her ability to transform personal pain into a communal celebration of resilience speaks volumes about the healing potential of the arts. As she continues to confront her own struggles through her music, she also inspires countless others to embrace their narratives, fostering a sense of solidarity and hope in an increasingly fragmented society.
