Words and Photos by: Lucy Heffer
Blue Nation delivered a superb showcase set at Gibson Garage to a star-studded audience that included music journalists, Marshall Records’ Steve Tannett, Trevor Gibson from Circle (Recording) Studios, Tom from Lightning Threads, loyal Blue Nation fans, and, fresh from her 10am–1pm show on Absolute Radio, Leona Graham. But the real stars of the afternoon were the three Brummie lads themselves. Although only Neil Murdoch (vocals/guitar) and Luke Weston (bass/backing vocals) performed the acoustic set, drummer Nick Sharman was back where he belongs for the post-performance Q&A.
The captivated audience warmly embraced the band’s forthcoming EP, Wisdom For Pennies, which will be released this Friday (24th July 2026). The set opened with the title track before moving through Tired Of Waiting, Watch Me Fly and Comfort. Anyone who has seen Blue Nation live will know that the music is only part of the show; and there was plenty of trademark banter throughout. This time, Neil and Luke jokingly kept the security guard on his toes, repeatedly eyeing up the Gibson football shirts—and, naturally, the guitars!
After encouraging the handful of audience members who hadn’t already done so to pre-order the EP, Luke introduced the hugely important Echoes. He revealed that Ian’s Chain had told him six people had recently reached out to the charity for support after hearing the song performed live—a powerful reminder of the impact this song has. The all-too-brief set concluded with the singalong favourite Down By The River, before Neil, Luke and Nick sat down for a chat with Leona Graham.
The band were clearly in awe of having performed at such an iconic venue. Luke admitted, “Teenage Luke is very proud of grown-up Luke right now!” while Nick explained that after spending 15 years working as a chef – with Leona’s radio show providing the soundtrack to his days – sharing a stage with her felt surreal.
Asked what they would take home from Gibson Garage if they could choose anything, the answers came quickly. Neil picked the John Lennon J-45 acoustic, Luke opted for another Lennon signature model, while Nick simply replied, “Anything Mesa.”
To finish, the trio were each asked to sum up a Blue Nation live show in a single word. Their collective answer? Fun. Eccentric. Chaotic.
If that sounds like your kind of night, make sure you catch Blue Nation at Steelhouse Festival at the end of July or grab tickets for their September tour.
Before then, don’t forget to order your copy of Wisdom For Pennies.
