GoGo Penguin

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GoGo Penguin at Barbican Centre, London

About the Event

Prepare to be captivated by the electrifying and innovative sound of GoGo Penguin as they grace the iconic stage of the Barbican Centre in London on Wednesday, 3 December 2025. This is not just another concert; it’s an immersive journey into a world where the boundaries between electronic music, jazz, and classical composition blur into a singular, breathtaking experience. GoGo Penguin are renowned for their unique ability to craft propulsive, danceable rhythms that evoke the energy of the finest electronic acts, whilst weaving in intricate melodies and sophisticated harmonic structures that resonate with the depth of classical and jazz traditions. Their live performances are a testament to their masterful musicianship, delivering a dynamic and visually engaging spectacle that has cemented their reputation as one of the most exciting and forward-thinking live acts on the planet. Witnessing them at the Barbican, a venue synonymous with artistic excellence and cutting-edge programming, promises to be an unforgettable evening of sonic exploration and pure musical exhilaration.

About GoGo Penguin

Emerging from the vibrant music scene of Manchester, GoGo Penguin have carved a distinctive niche in the contemporary music landscape, defying easy categorisation. Formed in 2015, the trio – consisting of Chris Illingworth on piano, Nick Black on double bass, and Rob Turney on drums – create music that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally compelling. Their sound is a potent cocktail, drawing inspiration from the intricate drum patterns of electronic music producers like Aphex Twin and Squarepusher, the expansive soundscapes of post-rock, and the improvisational spirit of jazz, all filtered through the lens of Illingworth’s classically trained pianistic sensibilities.

Their breakthrough came with their 2016 album, v2.0, which garnered critical acclaim and introduced audiences to their signature fusion of intricate rhythms, soaring melodies, and unexpected electronic textures. Tracks like “Hopop” and “Garden of Eden” showcased their ability to build complex sonic architecture from acoustic instruments, sounding as if they were being sculpted by a synthesiser. Their subsequent releases, including A Humdrum Star (2019) and their latest offering, Everything Is Going To Be OK (2024), have seen them refine their approach, pushing their sonic palette further and deepening their exploration of themes of hope, resilience, and the human condition.

GoGo Penguin’s music is not confined to any single genre. It’s a testament to the power of instrumental music to communicate profound emotion and create exhilarating momentum. They have been described as “the Penguin Cafe Orchestra of the electronic age” and “Aphex Twin meets Bill Evans,” accolades that hint at the unique synthesis they achieve. Their live shows are legendary for their intensity, precision, and the sheer joy they exude as they perform. Each member is a virtuoso in their own right, their interplay so tight and intuitive that it’s often mistaken for electronic programming. They have a remarkable ability to build crescendos that feel monumental and moments of delicate introspection that draw you in. Their notable hits, while difficult to pinpoint in a traditionally song-based sense, are often the fan favourites that ignite the crowd, such as the driving energy of “Raven,” the melancholic beauty of “Murmuring,” and the uplifting surge of “To The Nighthawk.” Their discography represents a continuous evolution, each album adding new layers to their already rich sonic tapestry, and their live performances are the ultimate expression of their innovative spirit.

Venue Information

The Barbican Centre is a world-renowned arts complex located in the heart of London. It is one of Europe’s largest and most diverse arts centres, presenting a rich and varied programme of music, theatre, dance, film, and visual arts. The Centre is celebrated for its brutalist architecture and its commitment to presenting bold, challenging, and inspiring artistic works from across the globe. Its concert halls are equipped with state-of-the-art acoustics, providing an exceptional environment for experiencing live music.

For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

A GoGo Penguin performance at the Barbican Centre promises an evening of unparalleled musical intensity and sonic innovation. The trio are renowned for their electrifying stage presence, transforming acoustic instruments into a powerful force capable of shaking the foundations of any venue. Expect a setlist that expertly weaves together fan favourites from their extensive discography alongside compelling new material, showcasing their ongoing evolution as artists.

Their performance style is a masterclass in dynamic interplay. The hypnotic, driving rhythms laid down by Rob Turney on drums are the bedrock, often mirroring the intricate patterns of electronic dance music. Nick Black’s double bass provides a rich, resonant counterpoint, anchoring the sound with its deep, percussive textures and melodic flourishes. Above it all, Chris Illingworth’s piano work is a revelation. He moves seamlessly from intricate, arpeggiated figures that evoke synthesiser lines to sweeping, romantic melodies that hint at classical grandeur, all while maintaining a raw, improvisational energy. The result is a sound that is both highly structured and exhilaratingly free.

The music builds and evolves organically, often starting with a simple motif that gradually blossoms into a complex, multi-layered sonic landscape. Expect moments of soaring euphoria that will have you on the edge of your seat, interspersed with passages of delicate introspection that draw you deep into the emotional core of the music. Their sets are known for their relentless energy, with the trio working in perfect synchronicity, their communication on stage often a subtle nod or a shared glance. This isn’t just a band playing songs; it’s a collective exploration of sound, a meticulously crafted sonic journey. The duration of the performance, including an interval, is typically around two hours, allowing ample time for them to explore the full breadth of their remarkable sound. Prepare for a performance that is as intellectually stimulating as it is physically exhilarating – a true testament to the power of instrumental music in the 21st century.

FAQs

Q1: How does GoGo Penguin translate their electronic-sounding music into a live, acoustic setting?

A: GoGo Penguin’s magic lies precisely in their ability to create music that sounds electronically produced using only acoustic instruments. Chris Illingworth’s piano playing is central to this, as he often uses techniques and melodic ideas inspired by synthesiser lines and electronic sequencing. Rob Turney’s drumming is incredibly intricate and propulsive, mimicking the complex rhythms found in electronic music, while Nick Black’s double bass often provides a percussive, driving element that adds to the electronic feel. The trio’s virtuosity and their deep understanding of rhythm and texture allow them to build layers of sound that are both complex and powerful, without any electronic manipulation.

Q2: Is GoGo Penguin a jazz band, an electronic act, or something else entirely?

A: GoGo Penguin defy easy categorisation, which is part of their appeal. While they are often associated with the contemporary jazz scene due to their instrumental prowess and improvisational elements, their sound is heavily influenced by electronic dance music, classical composition, and even elements of rock and hip-hop. They refer to their music as “acoustic electronica” or “future-jazz.” The best way to understand it is to experience it – it’s a unique synthesis that stands on its own.

Q3: What kind of energy can I expect from a GoGo Penguin live performance?

A: Expect an incredibly high-energy and engaging performance. GoGo Penguin are known for their intense and dynamic live shows. Their music builds and evolves, often leading to moments of powerful crescendos and exhilarating rhythmic drive. The musicians are deeply immersed in their performance, and their synergy is palpable. It’s a set that will likely have you moving and feeling the music on a visceral level, while also appreciating the intricate musicianship.

Q4: Will GoGo Penguin be playing material from their latest album, Everything Is Going To Be OK?

A: It is highly probable that GoGo Penguin will be featuring material from their most recent album, Everything Is Going To Be OK, in their live set. Artists typically tour to promote their new releases, and this album has been met with critical acclaim. However, their sets also famously draw from their extensive back catalogue, so you can expect a well-rounded performance showcasing their journey as a band, including beloved tracks from albums like v2.0 and A Humdrum Star.

Q5: Is there any audience interaction or spoken commentary from the band during the show?

A: GoGo Penguin are primarily an instrumental band. Their focus is on conveying emotion and narrative through their music alone. While they are known for their captivating stage presence, their performances are largely free of spoken commentary or extensive audience interaction. The connection with the audience is forged through the power and emotional resonance of their music. They let the music do the talking, and it speaks volumes.