The Slow Readers Club - 10 Years of Cavalcade Album - Concert Review & Ticket Information
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Get ready, Sheffield! On Wednesday, 10th December 2025, the Steel City is set to host one of the UK’s most electrifying live acts, The Slow Readers Club, as they descend upon the iconic Foundry venue. Hailing from Manchester, this indie-rock powerhouse has built a formidable reputation for their dark, atmospheric soundscapes and intensely captivating performances, making this gig a truly unmissable date on the live music calendar. Foundry, nestled within the heart of Sheffield Students’ Union, provides the perfect intimate yet energetic backdrop for their brand of anthemic rock and synth-tinged pop. Mark your calendars and prepare for a night where searing guitar riffs, pulsating rhythms, and Aaron Starkie’s distinctive vocals will converge to create an unforgettable experience that will resonate long after the final chord fades.
About The Slow Readers Club
The Slow Readers Club, a quartet hailing from Manchester, have steadily carved out a unique and revered space in the British music scene since their formation. Comprising brothers Aaron Starkie (vocals) and Kurtis Starkie (guitar), alongside James Ryan (bass) and David Whitworth (drums), their journey has been one of relentless touring, critical acclaim, and an unwavering connection with their dedicated fanbase. Their sound is a masterful blend of rock and sophisticated pop sensibilities, characterised by Aaron Starkie’s emotionally charged baritone, driving post-punk basslines, intricate guitar work, and a rich tapestry of synths that add depth and atmosphere.
Their discography boasts a series of critically lauded albums, including “Cavalcade,” “Build a Tower,” and “The Joy of the Return,” each showcasing their evolution and refusal to be pigeonholed. Tracks like “Cavalcade,” “On the TV,” and “Block Out The Sun” have become fan favourites, embodying their signature blend of melancholic introspection and exhilarating energy. Known for their meticulous songwriting and powerful lyrical themes, The Slow Readers Club consistently deliver music that is both thought-provoking and incredibly catchy. Their live reputation precedes them; they are a band that truly comes alive on stage, transforming their studio recordings into an even more potent and immersive experience. Their ability to fuse the raw power of rock with the melodic hooks of pop ensures a performance that is both visceral and deeply engaging, making them a must-see act for any music enthusiast.
Foundry, Sheffield: The Perfect Setting
Nestled within the vibrant heart of the Sheffield Students’ Union building, Foundry stands as a cornerstone of the city’s live music landscape. With its postcode S102TG, it’s conveniently located for students and visitors alike, offering easy access from various parts of Sheffield. Foundry isn’t just another venue; it’s steeped in history, having hosted countless legendary bands and emerging artists over the decades, solidifying its reputation as a vital cultural hub. Its capacity, typically around 1,000 to 1,500 people depending on the configuration, strikes a perfect balance, feeling intimate enough to foster a genuine connection between artist and audience, yet large enough to generate an electrifying atmosphere.
The venue boasts excellent acoustics and a robust sound system, ensuring that every guitar riff, drum beat, and vocal nuance from The Slow Readers Club will be heard with crystal clarity. The multi-level layout often provides great sightlines from various vantage points, enhancing the overall gig experience. Beyond the main stage, Foundry benefits from being part of the wider Students’ Union complex, offering a lively pre-gig and post-gig environment with bars and communal spaces. In terms of accessibility, as a modern and well-maintained venue within a public building, Foundry typically offers facilities such as ramps, accessible toilets, and dedicated viewing areas for those with mobility requirements, ensuring a welcoming experience for all attendees. Its central location and established history make it an ideal setting for a band known for their powerful and immersive live performances.
What to Expect at the Show
Prepare for an evening of intense musical immersion when The Slow Readers Club take to the Foundry stage. Fans can anticipate a meticulously crafted setlist that expertly balances their beloved anthems with newer material, showcasing their artistic evolution. Expect to hear fan favourites from across their discography, such as the driving “Cavalcade,” the atmospheric “On the TV,” and the soaring “Block Out The Sun,” alongside tracks from their latest releases, demonstrating their continued creativity and power. The band is known for their tight, energetic delivery, and their performance will undoubtedly be a masterclass in dynamic indie-rock.
Beyond the music, The Slow Readers Club are masters of atmosphere. Their stage production, while often minimalist, uses lighting and visuals to enhance the mood, creating an immersive experience that perfectly complements their dark, cinematic sound. Aaron Starkie’s captivating stage presence and powerful vocals will be at the forefront, guiding the audience through a journey of emotional highs and lows. The Foundry’s excellent acoustics will ensure every intricate layer of their rock and pop-infused sound resonates with clarity. Expect a passionate crowd, fervent singalongs, and an undeniable sense of shared energy that will make this a truly memorable night.
Getting to Foundry, Sheffield
Foundry, located within the Sheffield Students’ Union at S102TG, is remarkably accessible, whether you’re a local or travelling from further afield. For those using public transport, Sheffield boasts an excellent network of buses and trams. Numerous bus routes stop directly outside or within a short walk of the Students’ Union on Western Bank, connecting it to the city centre, train station, and various neighbourhoods. The Sheffield Supertram also has stops relatively close by, particularly the University stop on the blue and yellow routes, making it a convenient option.
If you’re driving, be aware that parking directly at the venue is limited and often reserved for staff or Blue Badge holders. However, there are several public car parks within a reasonable walking distance in the city centre, though these can fill up quickly on event nights. Consider using apps like Parkopedia to find the nearest available spaces. Street parking in the immediate vicinity is often restricted, so planning ahead is highly recommended. Sheffield’s hilly terrain means a short walk can sometimes feel more strenuous, but the excellent public transport links generally make getting to Foundry a straightforward process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the event start?
Doors for The Slow Readers Club at Foundry are typically expected to open around 7:00 PM. Support acts usually begin shortly after, with the main act taking the stage between 8:45 PM and 9:15 PM. However, these times are subject to change, so please always check your ticket or the venue’s official social media channels closer to the date for the most accurate schedule.
Is there an age restriction?
Foundry generally operates a 14+ age restriction for most of its live music events. Attendees under the age of 16 usually need to be accompanied by an adult over 18. Please be aware that valid photographic ID may be required for entry and to purchase alcoholic beverages at the bar. It’s always best to confirm the specific age policy on your ticket or with the venue directly before attending.
What’s the refund policy?
Tickets for The Slow Readers Club at Foundry are generally non-refundable unless the event is cancelled or significantly rescheduled. In such instances, you would typically be offered a refund or the option to transfer your ticket to a new date. For all other circumstances, such as personal inability to attend, refunds are usually not issued. Please refer to the terms and conditions of your ticket vendor for their specific refund policy.
Are there food and drink options?
Yes, Foundry, being part of the Sheffield Students’ Union, has multiple bars within the venue complex serving a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. While the primary focus is on drinks, there are often food options available within the wider Students’ Union building or nearby eateries on Western Bank, perfect for a pre-gig bite. Please note that outside food and drink are generally not permitted inside the venue.
Where to Stay in Sheffield
For those travelling to Sheffield to experience The Slow Readers Club, the city offers a wide array of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From boutique hotels in the city centre to comfortable guesthouses, you’ll find plenty of choices within easy reach of Foundry and Sheffield’s vibrant cultural attractions.
Find hotels near Foundry, Sheffield on NeedAHotel.net
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