Scenius opened the night with a set that felt both retro and forward‑looking — the kind of electronic pop that nods to the darker corners of the ’80s while still sounding fresh. From the moment the first synth line pulsed through the room, they had the audience leaning in. Their sound is clean, atmospheric, and surprisingly emotional, built on warm analogue textures and a vocal delivery that’s understated but quietly gripping.

What stood out most was their control. Every beat, every pad, every melodic hook felt placed with intention. There’s no clutter in their music; they trust space, and it pays off. The singer’s voice — cool, steady, slightly melancholic — sat perfectly on top of the electronics, giving the songs a human centre that kept them from drifting into pure synth nostalgia.

The crowd, many of whom clearly came for Midge Ure, warmed to Scenius quickly. By the third track, you could feel the room settle into their groove. They’re not a band that shouts for attention; they earn it by building atmosphere and letting the songs breathe. A classy, confident support slot from a duo who know exactly what they’re doing.

Midge Ure walked onstage to the kind of welcome only a true British music icon gets — warm, loud, and full of affection. Backed by a tight, polished band, he delivered a set that blended nostalgia with real musical weight. This wasn’t a greatest‑hits-by-numbers show; it was a reminder of just how deep his catalogue runs and how strong his voice still is.

He moved effortlessly between eras: the shimmering synth‑drama of the Ultravox classics, the sharp songwriting of his solo work, and those big, emotional moments that have become part of the UK’s musical DNA. The band handled the dynamics beautifully — from the precision of the electronic‑leaning tracks to the more guitar‑driven anthems — giving each song the space to shine.

What really struck the room was Ure’s presence. He’s relaxed, funny, and completely at ease, chatting between songs with the warmth of someone who’s been doing this long enough to enjoy it rather than endure it. When the big numbers arrived, the audience didn’t just sing along — they rose to them. It felt communal, almost celebratory.

By the final encore, The Glasshouse was on its feet. Midge Ure didn’t just play a show; he delivered a masterclass in how to honour your legacy while still sounding vital. A superb night from an artist who remains as compelling as ever.

Setlist:

A Different View

Again We Love (Visage song)

Call of the Wild

Accent on Youth (Ultravox song)

The Ascent (Ultravox song)

Your Name (Has Slipped My Mind Again) (Ultravox song)

Astradyne (Ultravox song)

Monster

Man of Two Worlds (Ultravox song)

Lament (Ultravox song)

Wastelands

Vienna (Ultravox song)

Reap the Wild Wind (Ultravox song)

If I Was

The Voice (Ultravox song)

Fade to Grey (Visage song)

Dancing With Tears in My Eyes (Ultravox song)

Yellow Pearl (Phil Lynott cover)

Hymn

Images & words: Bernie Penman