Destroyer

Experience Destroyer Live at Escenario Santander, Santander on Friday, 21 November 2025

Prepare for an unforgettable evening of sophisticated indie rock as the acclaimed Canadian artist Destroyer graces the stage at the renowned Escenario Santander in Santander on Friday, 21 November 2025. This is more than just a concert; it’s an immersion into the intricate, poetic, and intellectually stimulating world of Dan Bejar, the singular creative force behind Destroyer. For fans of astute songwriting, captivating live performances, and music that challenges and delights in equal measure, this is an event not to be missed. Escenario Santander, known for its excellent acoustics and vibrant atmosphere, provides the perfect setting for Destroyer’s nuanced and evocative soundscapes to truly shine.

About Destroyer

Destroyer, the ever-evolving musical project of Vancouver-based singer-songwriter and producer Dan Bejar, has carved out a unique and revered space in the indie music landscape. Since emerging in the late 1990s, Bejar has consistently defied easy categorisation, crafting a discography that traverses art-pop, synth-driven experimentation, and lyrical introspection. His work is characterised by a remarkable lyrical prowess, often weaving dense, enigmatic narratives filled with literary allusions, pop culture references, and a uniquely sardonic wit. This commitment to artistic growth means that each Destroyer album feels like a distinct chapter, yet all are bound by Bejar’s unmistakable voice and philosophical outlook.

Over the years, Destroyer has released a string of critically lauded albums, each building upon his distinctive artistic vision. From the early, lo-fi charm of albums like Streets of Incredible Things and Killer to the polished, synth-laden brilliance of Kaputt (often cited as a career highlight and a landmark of modern indie pop) and the sprawling, ambitious tapestry of Have We Met, Bejar’s creative output remains remarkably consistent in its quality and ever-surprising in its direction. Tracks like “Rubies” from Destroyer’s Rubies, the infectious groove of “Savage Night at the Circus” from Trouble in Dreams, and the shimmering melancholy of “Times Square” from Kaputt have become beloved anthems for a devoted following. More recent works, such as the critically acclaimed Have We Met and Labyrinthitis, have seen Bejar further explore electronic textures and expansive sonic palettes, demonstrating an artist still very much at the peak of his creative powers. Destroyer’s music is an invitation to listen deeply, to unpack the layers of meaning, and to be transported by its singular sonic and lyrical beauty.

Venue Information

Escenario Santander is a premier live music venue located in the heart of Santander, Spain. Renowned for its modern facilities and commitment to hosting a diverse range of musical talent, it offers an intimate yet energetic setting for performances. The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, ensuring an exceptional audio-visual experience for concert-goers. Its thoughtful design provides excellent sightlines from all seating and standing areas, allowing audiences to connect intimately with the artists on stage. Escenario Santander has a reputation for fostering a welcoming and engaging atmosphere, making it a beloved destination for live music enthusiasts in the region. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that is both captivating and subtly electrifying. Destroyer’s live shows are a testament to Dan Bejar’s singular artistic vision, translating his intricate studio creations into a dynamic and engaging concert experience. The setlist on this evening is anticipated to draw from across Destroyer’s extensive and celebrated discography, offering a rich journey through his evolution as an artist. Expect to hear beloved fan favourites that have cemented his reputation, likely including tracks that have resonated deeply with audiences for their lyrical depth and melodic inventiveness. Given his recent explorations, it’s also highly probable that newer material, showcasing his continued embrace of synthesizers and expansive sonic textures, will feature prominently, offering a glimpse into his ongoing artistic trajectory.

Bejar’s performance style is known for its understated charisma. He is not an artist who relies on grand gestures or crowd-pleasing antics; instead, his power lies in the sheer force of his songwriting and the unwavering conviction with which he delivers his lyrical narratives. Expect a band that is exceptionally tight, adept at navigating the complex arrangements and shifting moods of Destroyer’s music. The live interpretation of Destroyer’s songs often reveals new dimensions, with the interplay between Bejar’s distinctive vocals and the instrumental prowess of his band creating a compelling and immersive soundscape. The atmosphere is likely to be one of rapt attention, punctuated by enthusiastic applause as familiar melodies emerge or as particularly poignant lyrical passages land. The duration of the performance is typically around 90 minutes to 2 hours, providing ample time for the band to explore a wide range of their acclaimed material, leaving the audience both intellectually stimulated and musically satisfied.

FAQs

Q1: Will Dan Bejar perform songs from all eras of Destroyer’s career? Absolutely. Destroyer’s live sets are renowned for their comprehensive scope, typically encompassing a thoughtfully curated selection of tracks spanning his extensive and varied discography. This means you can anticipate hearing cherished songs from his earlier, more lo-fi works right alongside beloved anthems from his critically acclaimed mid-career albums, and of course, newer material that highlights his ongoing artistic evolution. It’s a true celebration of his entire musical journey.

Q2: Is the live band integral to the Destroyer experience? Indeed, the live band is a crucial component of the Destroyer experience. Dan Bejar performs with a dedicated and highly skilled ensemble of musicians who are adept at interpreting the complex arrangements and sonic textures found on his studio albums. Their synergy on stage is palpable, bringing a dynamic and often more expansive dimension to the beloved songs, revealing new nuances and invigorating the familiar melodies.

Q3: What is Destroyer’s usual performance style like? Destroyer’s performance style is characterised by its intellectual and artistic intensity rather than overt showmanship. Dan Bejar delivers his intricate lyrical narratives with a captivating sincerity, often with a quiet charisma. The focus is firmly on the music itself – the profound songwriting, the nuanced arrangements, and the sheer artistic integrity of the performance. Expect a performance that is both intimate and powerful, drawing the audience into the world of his songs.

Q4: Can I expect Dan Bejar to interact much with the audience? While Dan Bejar is not one for extensive on-stage banter, his interactions are usually subtle and sincere. He might offer a brief acknowledgement or a quiet word between songs, but the primary mode of communication is through the music itself. The connection with the audience is forged through the shared experience of listening to his compelling songs and the palpable atmosphere created by the performance.

Q5: Are there likely to be any unexpected cover songs in the setlist? While Destroyer’s primary focus is always on his own extensive and rich catalogue, Dan Bejar does occasionally surprise audiences with thoughtfully chosen cover songs that resonate with his own artistic sensibilities. However, these are typically rare occurrences, and the vast majority of the setlist will be dedicated to his own highly acclaimed material. It’s best to come prepared to fully immerse yourself in the singular world of Destroyer’s own remarkable output.

Q6: How long does a typical Destroyer concert last? A standard Destroyer concert typically runs for approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours. This generous timeframe allows the band to delve into a substantial portion of their extensive catalogue, providing a comprehensive and deeply satisfying musical experience for all attendees.