English Teacher

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English Teacher Live at The Roundhouse, London

Get ready for an unforgettable night as the critically acclaimed English Teacher descends upon the iconic Roundhouse in London on Tuesday, 25 November 2025. This is more than just a gig; it’s an opportunity to witness one of the most exciting emerging bands in the UK deliver their electrifying blend of art-rock, indie-pop, and sharp lyrical observations in a venue steeped in musical history. Prepare for a performance that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally exhilarating, a testament to the band’s burgeoning reputation for captivating live shows. The Roundhouse, with its distinctive industrial charm and unparalleled acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for English Teacher’s sonic explorations and their magnetic stage presence. This promises to be a standout event in the London live music calendar, a chance to experience a band at the cusp of something truly special.

About English Teacher

Emerging from the vibrant Leeds music scene, English Teacher have rapidly carved out a distinctive niche for themselves, captivating audiences with their intelligent songwriting, intricate musical arrangements, and undeniably charismatic performance style. Since their formation, the quartet – comprising Lily Fontaine (vocals, guitar), Lewis Thomas (drums), Nicholas Reinelt (guitar), and Freddie Stewart (bass) – has been lauded for their ability to weave together a tapestry of sounds that is both accessible and refreshingly experimental. Their music dances on the edge of post-punk energy, art-pop sensibility, and a penchant for the playfully profound, often delving into themes of modern alienation, societal quirks, and the absurdities of everyday life with a wit that is as sharp as their guitar riffs.

Their early EPs, such as “Jerk” and “Semiotics,” immediately showcased their precocious talent for crafting compelling narratives set against a backdrop of dynamic instrumentation. The release of their debut album, This is not a test, in 2023 solidified their status as a band with serious artistic ambition. This critically acclaimed record garnered widespread praise, with singles like the infectious and introspective “A Weekend Alien” and the anthemic, thought-provoking “The World’s Biggest Paving Slab” becoming fan favourites and critical darlings. The latter, in particular, encapsulates their ability to take an ordinary observation and imbue it with a potent blend of humour, pathos, and a driving musical urgency. Their live shows have become renowned for their raw energy and Lily Fontaine’s captivating stage persona, where her lyrical delivery and the band’s tight musicianship create an atmosphere that is both intensely personal and communally electrifying. English Teacher are not just a band to listen to; they are a band to experience, to engage with, and to be moved by.

Venue Information

The Roundhouse is a legendary London venue, a former railway engine shed that has been transformed into a world-class performance space. Renowned for its iconic circular architecture and its rich history of hosting groundbreaking artists, it offers an intimate yet grand atmosphere that amplifies the live music experience. Its unique design ensures excellent sightlines from almost every vantage point and delivers superb acoustics, making it an ideal setting for a band like English Teacher.

For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that is as intellectually stimulating as it is sonically adventurous. English Teacher are known for delivering sets that are not only a faithful representation of their acclaimed recordings but are infused with an extra layer of live energy and spontaneity. Audiences can anticipate a journey through their growing catalogue, with highlights from their debut album, This is not a test, forming the backbone of the performance. Expect to hear the urgent, relatable narratives of “A Weekend Alien”, the socially observant observations of “The World’s Biggest Paving Slab”, and the melodic complexities of tracks like “Great Artesian Basin”.

Their setlist will undoubtedly weave in fan-favourite earlier material, showcasing the evolution of their sound and lyrical prowess. The performance style of English Teacher is a captivating fusion of raw, indie-rock dynamism and sophisticated art-pop sensibilities. Lily Fontaine is a magnetic frontwoman, her delivery evolving from whispered confidences to full-throated declarations, drawing the audience into the heart of each song. The band operates as a cohesive unit, their intricate guitar work, driving basslines, and precise drumming creating a rich and textured soundscape that is both intricate and immensely powerful. Expect moments of surprising sonic shifts, where delicate melodies can erupt into full-blown anthemic choruses. The show is likely to last approximately 90 minutes, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience of the band’s artistry. Be prepared for an evening that encourages both thoughtful reflection and uninhibited movement, a testament to English Teacher’s mastery of their craft.

FAQs

Q1: What is English Teacher’s typical setlist like? English Teacher’s setlists generally feature a strong representation of their debut album, This is not a test, including fan favourites and critical highlights. They also incorporate beloved tracks from their earlier EPs, showcasing the evolution of their sound. You can expect a balanced blend of their more energetic, anthemic songs and their introspective, narrative-driven pieces, creating a dynamic and engaging musical journey.

Q2: Is English Teacher a high-energy live band? Absolutely. English Teacher are renowned for their electrifying live performances. While their studio recordings showcase intricate arrangements, their live shows are characterised by a palpable energy and raw musicianship. Lily Fontaine is a captivating performer, and the band’s tight musicianship ensures a powerful and engaging experience for the audience. Expect moments of intense sonic exploration and crowd-pleasing anthems.

Q3: How would you describe English Teacher’s musical style? English Teacher’s musical style is best described as an intelligent blend of indie-rock, art-pop, and post-punk influences. They are known for their sharp, observational lyrics often delivered with a dry wit, set against intricate and dynamic musical arrangements. Their sound can shift from melodic and catchy to more angular and experimental within a single track, making them a unique and compelling listen.

Q4: Are there opportunities for audience interaction during English Teacher’s set? While English Teacher are primarily focused on delivering their meticulously crafted songs, Lily Fontaine’s stage presence naturally fosters a connection with the audience. Her expressive delivery and the band’s ability to build a powerful atmosphere mean that the audience often feels deeply engaged with the performance, responding to the emotional ebb and flow of the music.

Q5: Can I expect any new material from English Teacher at this gig? While the setlist will primarily focus on their released material to date, it’s not uncommon for bands to test out new material in live settings, especially when touring extensively. Keep an ear out, as there’s always a possibility of hearing something fresh from English Teacher as they continue to evolve their sound.

Q6: What kind of lyrical themes does English Teacher explore? English Teacher’s lyrical themes are a significant part of their appeal. They often delve into the nuances of modern life, exploring topics such as alienation, societal observations, the absurdities of everyday existence, and personal introspection. Their lyrics are frequently laced with wit, intelligence, and a keen eye for detail, prompting reflection and often a wry smile from the listener.