GoGo Penguin

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GoGo Penguin Live at Albert Hall Manchester

Prepare for an evening of electrifying, genre-bending performance as the acclaimed electronic-jazz trio, GoGo Penguin, descend upon the magnificent Albert Hall in Manchester on Tuesday, 2 December 2025. This is not just another concert; it’s an immersion into a sonic landscape where raw energy meets intricate musicianship, promising an unforgettable experience for all who attend. GoGo Penguin have cultivated a reputation for their exhilarating live shows, transforming their studio creations into dynamic, often improvisational, performances that leave audiences captivated. Witnessing them in the grand, Gothic surroundings of the Albert Hall will undoubtedly elevate their already powerful sound, creating a truly resonant and immersive atmosphere.

About GoGo Penguin

Hailing from Leeds, GoGo Penguin have carved a unique and influential niche in the contemporary music scene, effortlessly blending the improvisational spirit of jazz with the pulsing rhythms and textures of electronic music. Comprising Chris Illingworth on piano, Nick Black on bass, and Rob Turnock on drums, the trio have consistently pushed boundaries since their formation. Their music is often described as “acoustic electronica” or “jazztronica,” a testament to their ability to fuse organic instrumentation with synthesized elements and electronic beats.

Their breakthrough came with their 2014 album, v2.0, which garnered widespread critical acclaim and saw them signed to the renowned Blue Note Records. This album, and subsequent releases like Man Made Object (2016) and A Humdrum Star (2019), solidified their distinctive sound: intricate piano melodies weave through propulsive basslines and sharp, precise drumming, all imbued with an underlying electronic sensibility. Tracks like “Hopopono,” “All Res,” and “Raven” have become fan favourites, showcasing their knack for creating both intensely energetic pieces and more reflective, atmospheric journeys. Their latest album, Everything Is Going to Be OK, released in 2022, continued their sonic evolution, incorporating even more diverse influences and a heightened emotional depth.

GoGo Penguin’s live performances are renowned for their intensity and captivating energy. They are not a band to simply replicate their studio albums; rather, they use them as a springboard for exploration and improvisation. The dynamic interplay between the three musicians is palpable, creating a sense of spontaneity and urgency that draws the audience into their intricate sonic tapestry. Their commitment to delivering a visceral and engaging live experience has earned them a devoted global following and a reputation as one of the most exciting live acts performing today.

Venue Information

The Albert Hall in Manchester is a truly iconic venue, a former Methodist chapel with a breathtaking Gothic Revival interior. Its soaring ceilings, stained-glass windows, and ornate architecture provide a unique and awe-inspiring backdrop for live music. The sheer scale and grandeur of the space contribute significantly to the atmosphere of any event held within its walls, creating an intimate yet epic feel. The acoustics, combined with the visual splendour, promise to make this GoGo Penguin performance an unforgettable sensory experience. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a performance that transcends typical concert boundaries. GoGo Penguin’s setlists are a carefully curated journey through their extensive and critically acclaimed discography. Expect to hear a thrilling selection of their most popular tracks, including the pulsating energy of “Hopopono,” the hypnotic rhythms of “All Res,” and the driving intensity of “Raven.” You’ll likely also be treated to newer material from Everything Is Going to Be OK, showcasing their continued artistic growth and willingness to explore new sonic territories.

The hallmark of a GoGo Penguin live show is their electrifying performance style. They possess an almost telepathic connection, weaving intricate musical passages with a raw, unbridled energy. The interplay between Chris Illingworth’s virtuosic piano melodies, Nick Black’s powerful and melodic basslines, and Rob Turnock’s precise and dynamic drumming creates a sound that is both complex and incredibly accessible. They often build sonic landscapes that can shift from delicate, almost ambient textures to explosive, high-octane crescendos within a single piece. Their music is inherently visual, with the musicians’ intense focus and engagement drawing you deeper into the performance. It’s a dynamic display of skill, passion, and collaborative artistry that consistently leaves audiences mesmerised.

The duration of the performance will typically be around 90 minutes to two hours, including a short interval. This allows ample time for GoGo Penguin to showcase the breadth and depth of their musical talent, taking the audience on a compelling sonic adventure.

FAQs

Q: Will GoGo Penguin perform material from their latest album, Everything Is Going to Be OK?

A: Absolutely. GoGo Penguin are known for incorporating their latest material into their live sets, and Everything Is Going to Be OK has been a significant release. You can expect to hear tracks from this album, which represents a mature and emotionally resonant chapter in their career.

Q: Is GoGo Penguin’s live show heavily reliant on electronics, or is it more acoustic?

A: GoGo Penguin masterfully blend acoustic and electronic elements. While their core instrumentation is piano, bass, and drums, they cleverly integrate electronic beats, samples, and synthesized sounds into their compositions. Their live shows capture this fusion, offering a rich and layered sonic experience that feels both organic and modern.

Q: Can I expect improvisation during the performance?

A: Yes, improvisation is a key element of GoGo Penguin’s live shows. While they have structured compositions, they often use their performances as an opportunity for spontaneous musical exploration. The interplay between the musicians allows for moments of inspired improvisation, making each performance unique.

Q: What is the typical setlist like for a GoGo Penguin concert?

A: A typical GoGo Penguin setlist will draw from their most popular and critically acclaimed albums, including v2.0, Man Made Object, A Humdrum Star, and Everything Is Going to Be OK. You can anticipate a dynamic mix of their energetic anthems and more introspective pieces.

Q: Is GoGo Penguin’s music suitable for all ages?

A: GoGo Penguin’s music is instrumental and generally considered accessible to a wide range of listeners. However, due to the intensity and complex nature of their music, it might be more appreciated by those with an interest in jazz, electronic music, or experimental sounds. Parental guidance is always recommended for younger attendees.