Dry Cleaning

Dry Cleaning Live at SWG3, Glasgow – Friday, 24 April 2026

About the Event

Prepare for an electrifying evening as the critically acclaimed post-punk sensations, Dry Cleaning, descend upon Glasgow’s iconic SWG3 venue on Friday, 24 April 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an immersion into the band’s distinctive, spoken-word narrative delivered over a pulsating, angular sonic landscape. Known for their sharp wit, observational lyrics, and an unyielding live energy, Dry Cleaning promise a performance that is as intellectually stimulating as it is viscerally engaging. Their ascent in the music scene has been meteoric, marked by a unique artistic vision that has captivated audiences and critics alike. Witnessing Florence Shaw’s captivating spoken word, underpinned by the intricate guitar work of Tom Dowse, the driving basslines of Lewis Maynard, and the powerhouse drumming of Nick Burgoin, is an experience that lingers long after the final chord has faded. This is a chance to see one of the most compelling and original bands of their generation in the atmospheric heart of Glasgow’s industrial past.

About Dry Cleaning

Emerging from the vibrant South London music scene, Dry Cleaning have rapidly carved out a unique niche for themselves, becoming one of the most talked-about bands of the past decade. Their distinctive sound, built on a foundation of post-punk angularity, is defined by the captivating spoken-word delivery of vocalist Florence Shaw. Shaw’s lyrics, often derived from found text such as internet comments, instruction manuals, and supermarket signage, paint vivid, often darkly humorous, portraits of contemporary life. This spoken word element is masterfully interwoven with the razor-sharp guitar riffs of Tom Dowse, the propulsive basslines of Lewis Maynard, and the driving, precise drumming of Nick Burgoin.

Their debut album, New Long Leg, released in 2021, garnered widespread critical acclaim, earning them a Mercury Prize nomination and cementing their status as a major force in modern music. Hits like “Scratchcard Lanyard” and “Strong Feelings” showcased their ability to craft compelling narratives over infectious, hypnotic grooves. Their sophomore album, Stumpwork (2022), further explored their sonic palette, delving into themes of loss and remembrance with an even greater emotional depth, while retaining their signature observational edge on tracks such as “Don’t Press Me” and “Gary Ashby.”

Dry Cleaning’s live performances are legendary for their intensity and unwavering focus. Shaw commands the stage with a captivating, almost detached, presence, her words delivered with a compelling rhythm and cadence that draws the audience into her world. The band, meanwhile, provide a relentless sonic backdrop, their tight musicianship creating a powerful, immersive soundscape. They have cultivated a fiercely loyal following through relentless touring and a reputation for delivering consistently engaging and thought-provoking shows. Their ability to blend the mundane with the profound, the everyday with the existential, has resonated with a generation seeking authenticity and intelligent artistry.

Venue Information

SWG3 is a dynamic multi-arts venue situated in the heart of Glasgow’s West End, renowned for its industrial heritage and its commitment to showcasing diverse artistic talent. Housed within a former galvanising works, the space retains its raw, atmospheric charm, providing an intimate yet expansive setting for live music. With multiple distinct spaces, SWG3 is a versatile location that can accommodate a wide range of performances, from intimate club nights to larger-scale concerts. Its corrugated iron structures and exposed brickwork contribute to a unique urban aesthetic that perfectly complements the edgy, contemporary sounds often featured. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that is both hypnotic and invigorating. Dry Cleaning’s live sets are a masterclass in controlled intensity. Florence Shaw’s spoken-word delivery is the undeniable focal point, her voice weaving intricate tales and observations over the band’s relentless sonic architecture. Expect a journey through their acclaimed discography, with highlights likely to include fan favourites such as the instantly recognisable bassline of “Scratchcard Lanyard,” the biting social commentary of “Strong Feelings,” and the darkly amusing narrative of “Gary Ashby.” Tracks from their latest releases, including the compelling “Don’t Press Me,” are also sure to feature, showcasing their continued artistic evolution.

The band’s performance style is characterised by its precision and powerful synergy. Tom Dowse’s guitar work is a tapestry of angular riffs and atmospheric textures, while Lewis Maynard’s basslines are the pulsating heart of their sound, often serving as a melodic counterpoint to Shaw’s vocals. Nick Burgoin’s drumming is the driving force, providing a propulsive and dynamic rhythm section that underpins the entire performance. The visual aspect of their live shows is often understated but effective, allowing the music and lyrics to take centre stage.

The setlist is typically a carefully curated blend of their most potent tracks, designed to build momentum and create a truly immersive experience for the audience. While the exact setlist remains a mystery until the night itself, fans can anticipate a comprehensive exploration of their distinctive sound, leaving no doubt as to why they are considered one of the most exciting live acts in contemporary music. The duration of the performance is expected to be around 90 minutes to 2 hours, providing ample time to be fully captivated by their unique artistry.

FAQs

1. How did Dry Cleaning first start performing together? Dry Cleaning formed in 2018 when Florence Shaw, who had previously worked in graphic design, joined forces with musicians Tom Dowse, Lewis Maynard, and Nick Burgoin. They met through mutual friends and connections within the London music scene. Shaw had been writing lyrics and poems, and when presented with the opportunity to collaborate with instrumentalists, the distinctive Dry Cleaning sound began to take shape. Their initial rehearsals and early performances quickly gained attention for their unique vocal delivery and compelling musicality.

2. What is Florence Shaw’s approach to writing lyrics? Florence Shaw’s lyricism is famously derived from found text. She collects phrases and sentences from a variety of sources, including online comment sections, forgotten signage, discarded flyers, and snippets from instruction manuals. She then curates and edits these fragments, recontextualising them to create narratives that are often observational, darkly humorous, and surprisingly profound. This method allows her to capture the banality and absurdity of everyday life while also touching on deeper, more existential themes.

3. Are Dry Cleaning known for their improvisation during live shows? While Dry Cleaning’s musical framework is tightly composed, their live performances possess an inherent improvisational spirit within their sonic explorations. The band’s musicians are skilled at creating evolving soundscapes, and while Florence Shaw delivers her lyrics with a consistent rhythm and cadence, there can be subtle variations in vocal inflection and the musical accompaniment can subtly shift and expand in response to the live environment. The focus is on maintaining the energy and atmosphere, allowing for a dynamic and engaging live interpretation of their recorded material.

4. What can I expect in terms of stage presence from Dry Cleaning? Dry Cleaning’s stage presence is distinct and compelling. Florence Shaw typically commands the stage with a focused, almost stoic demeanour, her attention seemingly directed inward as she delivers her spoken-word narratives. She moves with a deliberate grace, often interacting with the microphone stand in a unique way that has become a signature element of her performance. The rest of the band, Tom Dowse, Lewis Maynard, and Nick Burgoin, are intensely focused on their instruments, creating a powerful and unified sonic force that complements Shaw’s vocal delivery without overpowering it. The overall impression is one of artistic concentration and a shared commitment to delivering a powerful and cohesive performance.

5. Are there any particular Dry Cleaning songs that are always crowd-pleasers at their gigs? Certain Dry Cleaning tracks have become anthems for their dedicated fanbase and consistently generate a strong reaction from the audience. “Scratchcard Lanyard” is almost always a highlight, its instantly recognisable bassline and sharp, observational lyrics making it a fan favourite. “Strong Feelings,” with its driving rhythm and evocative imagery, is another track that reliably gets the crowd engaged. “Good Habits” and “Magic of Meghan” also tend to be met with enthusiastic responses, showcasing the band’s ability to craft memorable hooks and narratives within their post-punk framework. It’s always a rewarding experience to see which of their potent tracks will ignite the SWG3 crowd.

6. Do Dry Cleaning typically play new material during their live sets? Yes, Dry Cleaning are known for integrating new material into their live sets. As artists who are constantly evolving and creating, they often use their live performances as a platform to road-test new songs and gauge audience reaction. This means that fans attending their Glasgow show on 24 April 2026 can anticipate not only hearing established favourites but also potentially experiencing some of their freshest musical output, offering a glimpse into their ongoing creative process and future sonic direction.