Alright troops — Gary here, Steven beside me, and we’re calling it how we see it. We run The Metro-Reloaded because we love the culture: sweat on the ceiling, bass in the bones, strangers hugging at 2:47am because a tune went off. But 2025? It’s a slog. Not a moan, just the truth.
First, credit where it’s due — Scotland’s music scene is throbbing. There are more gigs than ever, festivals growing, and venues of every size buzzing. That tracks with what we see on the ground: artists hungry, punters desperate for escape, and a calendar that refuses to stay tidy.
The Cost Pile-On
Let’s not dance round it: everything costs more. Power bills are eye-watering, and kit maintenance parts are priced like they’re made of platinum. We’re fully behind paying people properly, but wages, NI, and compliance stack up in a way small venues feel first and worst.
Footfall & Disposable Income
Demand for nights out is real, but the cost-of-living crunch means folk pick one big night a month instead of three. When travel feels sketchy or too expensive after midnight, plans evaporate. We’re working with promoters on smarter timing and pushing for later public transport that actually shows up.
Licensing & The Rules
We need the Agent of Change principle applied properly — if new flats pop up next to an existing club, developers should handle soundproofing so culture isn’t punished for existing. Let us do the job: safe, legal, and loud in the right places.
What Needs to Change
- Faster, clearer licensing: Consistent guidance across all councils.
- Protect existing culture: Venue protection from residential encroachment.
- Financial relief: Rates relief for grassroots venues and sensible VAT on tickets.
- Reliable transport: Safe, fairly priced options home after 1am.
Are We Optimistic?
Stubbornly, yes. The nights that click still give us goosebumps. Scotland doesn’t fall out of love with music; it just needs the basics to work so the love can show up. If you want to help, it’s simple: buy the ticket in advance, respect the staff, and treat the space like it’s yours — because it is.
See you under the strobes.
— Gary & Steven
