On the strength of this stunning live performance from Swedish veterans Europe, you'd never believe that 2013 will usher in the thirtieth anniversary of the band's self titled debut release. So what is their longevity down to? Well continually releasing albums better than those that have come before them certainly helps, as does writing music that visibly excites them as they play it. However putting in performances that hit the ridiculously high standards of those witnessed at the ABC in Glasgow, just 39 days before that anniversary year begins, leaves no doubt as to why Europe still retain such appeal. Fiery, ferocious, tender yet tenacious, this is a band that lives every note and thrives on every beat.

Support act StoneRider may have been wowing audiences in The States through support slots with the likes of Uriah Heep and Robin Trower, but it would be fair to suggest that the Atlanta, Georgia three-piece are a new name for the meagre audience who'd braved the torrential rain to drip their early way into the ABC. Initially the trio looked a little put out that only a handful of paying punters were giving them much attention, but by the time they were blasting out their third track "Trigger Happy", attitudes along with attentions were beginning to turn towards the stage with increasing frequency. With half of their set used to make a solid introduction, the second part hammered home the advantage they'd won for themselves, with set closer "When The Sun Goes Down" garnering a heroes response from a venue that had steadily filled to near capacity. New friends made, solid first impressions given, it's job done for StoneRider.

Grown women scream, men of a certain age break out air guitars and headbang in a way they're neck is sure to regret in the morning, while Europe go into overdrive, knowing they genuinely have one of those rare things - a drop-dead show stopper - up their sleeve.