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Why I Love Glasgow's music scene: James 'Harri' Harrigan

A man in a flat cap and striped shirt, wearing large glasses, sits at a bar with his hand on his chin.
Written by James Harrigan, one half of Subculture’s resident DJ duo, Harri and Domenic. Found at the Sub Club most Saturday nights.
A club's changeable sign with white lettering reading "SUB CLUB EST. 1987" in three rows is mounted on a rough brick and concrete wall.
Sub Club, credit: Brian Sweeney
James ‘Harri’ Harrigan answers our questions on why Glasgow is a top city for music lovers.

1. What makes going to a gig in Glasgow so special?

Glasgow crowds are great, they're knowledgeable and passionate about music. Lots of bands recorded their live albums in Glasgow. Status Quo, The Kinks, The Jesus and Mary Chain and several more. Clubs here also have that great vibe, even on quiet nights. There must be something in the water!

A man in a flat cap and striped shirt, wearing large glasses, sits at a bar with his hand on his chin.
James Harrigan, credit: @glesgaonfilm aka Selina Paton

2. Tell us about a music moment that sums up your experience of the city?

I'm lucky to DJ with Domenic at Sub Club almost every Saturday night, and it never fails to amaze me how up for it Glasgow crowds are. It would be hard to single out one particular night as they are always excellent. Most of what we play on any given Saturday is completely new to the crowd too.

A low-light photo shows a crowd's silhouetted hands raised toward the ceiling under red and green ambient lights in a dark club.
Sub Club

3. Why do so many talented musicians come out of Glasgow?

Glasgow has always punched well above its weight musically. Glaswegians love to entertain and be entertained, perhaps it's an escape from the weather and being economically challenged.

4. What's your favourite Glasgow venue?

My favourite Glasgow venue would have to be the Sub Club, so many memorable nights for so many years. For live music I would probably say the Barrowland Ballroom for the same reason.

The vibrant, multi-colored neon sign of the Barrowland Ballroom, adorned with stars, illuminates a city street at dusk as people gather outside.
Barrowland Ballroom

5. When travelling the world, how do you describe Glasgow and the city's music scene?

To anybody that has never been to Glasgow, I would describe our music scene as super friendly, clued up, and heartfelt. Unlike a lot of cities you don't need a fortune to go out and have a great night in Glasgow.

6. What would you recommend to first-time visitors to the city?

I would encourage first time visitors to Glasgow to check out Mother India, The Barras, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the west end, Botanic Gardens, Riverside Museum, The Burrell Collection, Kelvingrove Park, Queens Park, and several bars and restaurants in Finnieston.

A sunny, green view frames a red archway sign reading "THE BARRAS" in the distance, with a Victorian brick building on the right.
The Barras Market

Subculture is the world's longest-running underground house night and takes place at Sub Club on Saturday nights. Visit subclub.co.uk for full listings.

Article last updated: October 2025

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