Good Neighbours

Good Neighbours Live at New Century Hall, Manchester

About the Event

Prepare yourselves, Manchester! On Friday, 13th February 2026, a seismic shift in the indie-rock landscape is set to rumble through the heart of the city. New Century Hall, a venue steeped in history and renowned for its incredible acoustics, will play host to the electrifying live performance of Good Neighbours. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an invitation to witness a band at the peak of their powers, delivering a show that promises to be a cathartic and exhilarating experience. Known for their raw energy, infectious melodies, and a lyrical prowess that speaks directly to the anxieties and joys of a generation, Good Neighbours are rapidly cementing their reputation as one of the most vital new voices in British music. This Manchester date marks a significant milestone for the band, and you can be sure they’ll be bringing their A-game to deliver a night that will live long in the memory.

About Good Neighbours

Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Brighton, Good Neighbours have emerged as a significant force in the UK’s indie-rock revival. Since their formation, the quartet – comprising brothers Ben (vocals, guitar) and Tom (drums) Ashton, alongside Liam (guitar) and Lewis (bass) Yates – have cultivated a distinctive sound that blends anthemic choruses with introspective lyricism. Their early releases, like the self-produced singles “Boxer” and “Gravel Stone,” quickly garnered attention for their unpolished authenticity and relatable narratives, painting vivid pictures of suburban life, youthful disillusionment, and the search for meaning.

Their debut album, “The Day We Were Born,” released in 2023, was met with widespread critical acclaim, solidifying their status as a band to watch. The record showcased a remarkable evolution in their songwriting, featuring a more polished yet still fiercely independent sound. Tracks such as the surging lead single “Now It’s Dark,” with its soaring guitar riffs and Ben Ashton’s impassioned vocals, became instant fan favourites, capturing the zeitgeist with its themes of societal pressure and personal resilience. Another standout, “Catch Me,” demonstrated their ability to craft intricate, melodic indie-pop gems that burrow their way into your subconscious. Good Neighbours possess a rare knack for writing songs that feel both deeply personal and universally resonant, tapping into shared experiences and emotions. Their live performances are legendary for their unbridled energy and the palpable connection they forge with their audience, transforming every venue into a communal outpouring of shared euphoria.

Venue Information

New Century Hall stands as a testament to Manchester’s rich cultural heritage, a beautifully restored Grade II listed building that offers a unique and atmospheric setting for live music. Originally built in 1929 as the headquarters for the Co-operative Wholesale Society, its art deco grandeur has been meticulously preserved, providing a stunning backdrop for modern events. The main hall boasts a capacity of over 1,200, featuring a sprung dance floor and excellent sightlines from all areas, ensuring an intimate yet energetic experience. The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, making it an ideal space for bands like Good Neighbours to showcase their sonic prowess. Its central location within the city makes it easily accessible for all concert-goers. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Get ready for a blistering, no-holds-barred performance from Good Neighbours that will leave you breathless. Their live shows are a whirlwind of unadulterated energy, a testament to their passion and dedication to their craft. You can expect a setlist that masterfully blends fan-favourite anthems with newer material, showcasing the breadth of their evolving sound. Tracks like the universally acclaimed “Now It’s Dark” are guaranteed to ignite the room, with Ben Ashton’s distinctive vocals soaring over a driving rhythm section and intricately layered guitars. Anticipate the singalong intensity of “Catch Me,” a track that perfectly encapsulates their ability to craft infectious indie-pop hooks that stick with you long after the final chord.

The band’s performance style is raw, authentic, and utterly captivating. They possess a magnetic stage presence that draws you in from the first note. Expect tight musicianship, with Tom Ashton’s dynamic drumming providing the thunderous backbone, complemented by Lewis Yates’s pulsating basslines and Liam Yates’s razor-sharp guitar work. Ben Ashton commands the stage with a captivating blend of vulnerability and fierce determination, his lyrics delivered with a conviction that resonates deeply with the audience. Their set is not just about playing songs; it’s about creating an experience. Expect moments of pure sonic euphoria, punctuated by intimate, emotionally charged passages. The gig is anticipated to run for approximately 90 minutes, including any encore, giving you ample time to immerse yourself in the Good Neighbours sound. Be prepared for a night of sweat, singalongs, and an unforgettable display of one of the UK’s most exciting emerging bands.

FAQs

Q1: Will Good Neighbours play their hit songs like “Now It’s Dark” and “Catch Me” at the Manchester show?

Absolutely! Good Neighbours are renowned for delivering electrifying performances of their most popular tracks. You can expect “Now It’s Dark,” “Catch Me,” and other fan favourites to be integral parts of their setlist, guaranteeing a night of singalong anthems and high-energy moments that have defined their rise.

Q2: What is Good Neighbours’ general musical style?

Good Neighbours are primarily known for their indie-rock sound, often infused with elements of post-punk and alternative rock. Their music is characterised by catchy, anthemic choruses, intricate guitar melodies, driving rhythms, and relatable, often introspective, lyrical themes that resonate with a contemporary audience.

Q3: How would you describe Good Neighbours’ live performance energy?

Their live performances are legendary for their raw, unbridled energy. They are known for their passionate stage presence, tight musicianship, and a palpable connection with their audience. Expect a dynamic and exhilarating show that often features cathartic singalongs and an immersive, high-octane atmosphere.

Q4: Has Good Neighbours released any albums, and which ones should I check out before the show?

Yes, Good Neighbours released their critically acclaimed debut album, “The Day We Born,” in 2023. It’s highly recommended to give this album a listen before the Manchester gig to familiarise yourself with their extensive catalogue and the evolution of their sound. Many of its tracks are staples of their live set.

Q5: Are there any specific themes often explored in Good Neighbours’ lyrics?

Good Neighbours’ lyrics often delve into themes surrounding youth culture, everyday life, societal pressures, anxieties, and the search for identity and meaning. They have a knack for capturing relatable experiences and emotions with an honest and often poignant lyrical approach, making their songs resonate with a broad spectrum of listeners.