HJEM Find Their Stride: A Breakthrough Night at Upstairs Inverness
The night opened with two superb acoustic sets that set the tone perfectly for what was to come. First up was Dylan James Tierney, delivering a beautifully raw and intimate performance that showcased his songwriting with clarity and heart. Following him, Iain McLaughlin took to the stage with a powerful acoustic set of Outsiders tracks, stripping the songs back to their emotional core while losing none of their intensity. Both artists brought a quiet command that drew the room in, creating an atmosphere of anticipation ahead of the main event.
Inverness-based four-piece HJEM delivered their finest performance to date at Upstairs Inverness on Friday night, solidifying their place as one of the Highlands’ most exciting emerging bands. Already known for their dynamic blend of rock, blues, and alternative with flashes of country and pop, the band unveiled a live sound that felt bigger, richer, and more atmospheric than ever before.
A major part of that evolution came from the addition of former Strives frontman Phillip Barton, whose textured guitar work added a new depth to the band’s sonic palette. His ambient layers and tasteful flourishes elevated HJEM’s already strong material, transforming their set into something genuinely epic.
Frontman Daniel Gunn, long a familiar name on the local music circuit from his solo work and his previous band Purple Divide (alongside drummer Connor), has channelled years of songwriting into HJEM’s catalogue. The result is a strikingly diverse setlist – songs that range from brooding and cinematic to punchy and energetic, all tied together by the chemistry of a band clearly hitting their stride.
The set drew from their debut EP, showcasing the band’s versatility and tight musicianship. Their cover of The Black Keys’ Lonely Boy was a great addition , carrying all the swagger of the original while injecting HJEM’s distinct edge.
As the night neared its end, “Gold Mine” stood out as the emotional peak – an expansive, cinematic track that felt every bit like a show closer. But HJEM weren’t done yet. They wrapped up with “Black Magic Woman,” a live favourite that sounded even more electrifying on the night: upbeat, bold, and leaving the crowd wanting more.
This performance marked a clear step forward for HJEM. With expanded soundscapes, confident songwriting, and a line-up firing on all cylinders, the band proved they’re not just growing – they’re arriving.
What made the evening even more special was its purpose: the entire event was held in support of the Liam Colgan Music Fund, a charity dedicated to helping emerging musicians develop their craft. It was a fitting cause for a night that showcased the strength and spirit of the local music community. Find out more here: https://www.liamcolganmusicfund.com
Words by jamiem_photos | All photos © Al Donnelly
