John Douglas – Weightlifting

Scottish singer-songwriter John Douglas performs a moving live version of “Weightlifting,” a music with great meaning as part of the Trashcan Sinatras’ journey, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the historic album of the same title. The song, based on Douglas’ views on the band’s travels, creates nostalgia and storytelling that is warm and ever-lasting. Douglas strips down “Weightlifting” for this live performance, providing a folk-influenced rendition with only an acoustic guitar and his raw, devoted vocals. The simplicity of the arrangement lets the words to take center stage, bringing listeners in to the song’s deeply personal and thoughtful themes. His voice, free of studio tricks, sounds genuine and dedicated, as if he’s telling stories from his life in real time, taking the listener back to the band’s tour of Kilmarnock, Japan, and the United States. Douglas’ vocal approach reminds one of a modern troubadour, full of nostalgic sadness that recalls the past while expressing optimism and regrowth. His voice is both warm and sophisticated, allowing the performance to connect on a deep emotional level. The honest and raw elements of his voice offer a dimension of vulnerability, allowing listeners to identify with the songs’ themes of reducing burdens and finding peace. The lyrics to “Weightlifting” are simple but deep, about reducing the emotional weight, leaving the darkness of isolation, and finding peace in letting go of life’s challenges. The lyric, “You will find a great weight lifting, easing your mind,” is an anthem of emotional release that fits nicely with Douglas’ sensitive performance. While the production is minimal (no electricity), it seems appropriate for such a personal performance. Douglas’ performance stands on its own without any decorations, highlighting his skill as a storyteller.

Photo Credit: photo by Stephanie Gibson

TOUR DATES
October 1 LOS ANGELES – Hotel Cafe *
(Special guest appearance by Trashcan Sinatras’ Frank Reader)
October 2 SAN FRANCISCO – The Lost Church *
October 4 PORTLAND – Mission Theater *
October 5 SEATTLE – Ballard Homestead, Fremont Abbey *
(Special guest appearance by Trashcan Sinatras’ Frank Reader & Paul Livingston)
October 7 SALT LAKE CITY – The Beehive *
October 8 DENVER – Mercury Cafe, Jungle Room *
October 10 KANSAS CITY – Knuckleheads *
October 11 MINNEAPOLIS – Icehouse MPLS *
October 12 CHICAGO – GMan Tavern **
October 15 TORONTO – The Monarch **
October 16 CLEVELAND – Beachland Tavern **
October 17 COLUMBUS – Natalie’s Grandview **
October 19 BOSTON – City Winery Boston **
October 20 NEW YORK – Cafe Wha? **
October 21 PHILADELPHIA – City Winery Loft **