Gorillaz

Gorillaz Live at First Direct Arena, Leeds – Wednesday, 25 March 2026

About the Event

Prepare for a truly unforgettable sonic and visual spectacle as the animated pioneers, Gorillaz, descend upon Leeds, gracing the stage of the iconic First Direct Arena on Wednesday, 25 March 2026. This isn’t just another concert; it’s an invitation into the vibrant, ever-evolving universe of 2-D, Murdoc Niccals, Noodle, and Russel Hobbs, brought to life through a dazzling fusion of cutting-edge technology, infectious music, and a parade of surprise guest collaborators. Witness firsthand how this groundbreaking virtual band transcends the traditional concert experience, blurring the lines between animation, live performance, and artistic commentary, delivering a show that promises to be as thought-provoking as it is exhilarating. The Gorillaz live show is a phenomenon, a multi-sensory explosion that has captivated audiences worldwide, and their return to Leeds is set to be a landmark event in the city’s musical calendar.

About Gorillaz

Born from the creative minds of Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett in 1998, Gorillaz emerged as a revolutionary concept: a virtual band with a fictional backstory and a rotating cast of animated members. This unique premise allowed them unparalleled freedom to explore a vast spectrum of musical genres, from hip-hop and electronic to rock, pop, and dub. Their self-titled debut album in 2001 introduced the world to their distinctive sound and the charmingly chaotic personalities of 2-D, Murdoc, Noodle, and Russel. This was swiftly followed by the monumental success of their second album, Demon Days (2005), which spawned global hits like the anthemic “Feel Good Inc.” and the melancholic yet powerful “Dare.”

Over the subsequent decades, Gorillaz have consistently defied expectations. Their albums, including Plastic Beach (2010), The Fall (2011), Humanz (2017), The Now Now (2018), Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez (2020), and the critically acclaimed Cracker Island (2023), have each offered distinct sonic palettes and artistic narratives. Throughout their career, Gorillaz have become renowned for their extensive list of high-profile collaborators, seamlessly integrating artists from diverse musical backgrounds into their fluid soundscape. This willingness to experiment and collaborate has cemented their status as one of the most influential and enduring acts of the 21st century, constantly reinventing themselves while staying true to their core ethos of innovation and artistic expression. Notable hits that continue to resonate with fans include “Clint Eastwood,” “Dirty Harry,” “Stylo,” and the infectious groove of “On Melancholy Hill.”

Venue Information

The First Direct Arena in Leeds is a state-of-the-art entertainment venue, renowned for its distinctive fan-shaped design that provides outstanding sightlines and acoustics for every attendee. Its innovative structure ensures an intimate atmosphere, even with a capacity of over 13,000. Located conveniently within the city centre, it offers excellent accessibility via public transport and ample parking facilities nearby. The venue is equipped with modern amenities to enhance your concert experience. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

A Gorillaz live performance is not merely a concert; it is a carefully curated, multi-faceted experience designed to immerse the audience in their fantastical world. While setlists are subject to change, expect to be treated to a dynamic blend of their most beloved anthems alongside fresh material that showcases their continued artistic evolution. Tracks like “Feel Good Inc.,” with its instantly recognisable bassline and iconic rap verse, are guaranteed crowd-pleasers, as is the infectious energy of “Dare.” The poignant melodies of “On Melancholy Hill” often elicit a collective singalong, while the sheer power of “Clint Eastwood” remains a staple.

The performance style is a masterclass in visual and sonic innovation. The animated characters themselves are projected onto massive screens, interacting with the live band and guest performers in real-time. This seamless integration of animation and live action creates a truly unique spectacle, making it feel as though 2-D, Murdoc, Noodle, and Russel are truly on stage with you. The band’s live musicians are exceptionally talented, capable of flawlessly executing the genre-bending complexity of Gorillaz’s discography. Expect a vibrant and energetic stage presence, often featuring a diverse ensemble of musicians and vocalists who embody the spirit of collaboration that defines Gorillaz. The show’s duration typically spans approximately two to two-and-a-half hours, including a short interval, allowing ample time for them to delve deep into their extensive catalogue and deliver a performance that leaves you breathless. Prepare for surprises, artistic interludes, and a palpable sense of joyous chaos.

FAQs

Q1: Will the animated characters be performing live alongside the human band?

A: Absolutely! A core element of the Gorillaz live show is the projection of the animated band members – 2-D, Murdoc Niccals, Noodle, and Russel Hobbs – onto large screens. They interact with the live band and any guest collaborators in real-time, creating a truly unique and immersive visual experience. You’ll feel as though the virtual band is genuinely part of the performance.

Q2: Can I expect to hear classic Gorillaz hits like “Feel Good Inc.” and “Clint Eastwood”?

A: It’s virtually guaranteed! Gorillaz are known for playing their most iconic and fan-favourite tracks during their live shows. Hits like “Feel Good Inc.,” “Clint Eastwood,” “Dare,” and “On Melancholy Hill” are staples of their setlists and are always met with incredible enthusiasm from the audience. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to sing along to the songs that have defined their career.

Q3: Will there be guest performers at the Leeds show?

A: Gorillaz are famous for their extensive list of collaborators, and their live shows often feature surprise guest appearances from artists who have featured on their albums. While it’s impossible to predict specific guests for the 2026 Leeds date, you can certainly anticipate the possibility of seeing some talented musicians joining the band on stage to perform their featured tracks. This is always a highlight of a Gorillaz concert.

Q4: What is the typical duration of a Gorillaz concert?

A: A Gorillaz concert typically lasts for around two to two-and-a-half hours, including a short interval. This allows them ample time to showcase a broad range of their music, from their early groundbreaking hits to their more recent material, and to incorporate the various visual and performance elements that make their shows so special.

Q5: Are Gorillaz known for any particular stage production elements beyond the animation?

A: Yes, Gorillaz concerts are renowned for their visually striking stage production. Beyond the animated characters, expect a dynamic lighting design that complements the mood and energy of each song. The live band itself is often comprised of a diverse ensemble of musicians, adding to the rich sonic tapestry. They also incorporate interesting set design elements and, as mentioned, surprise guest appearances, all contributing to a highly theatrical and engaging performance.

Q6: How does Gorillaz manage to bring their diverse musical styles to a live setting?

A: Gorillaz achieve this through their exceptional live band, which comprises highly versatile musicians adept at navigating a wide array of genres, from hip-hop and electronic to rock and pop. Damon Albarn, the creative force behind Gorillaz, is also a masterful conductor of talent. He ensures that the core sound is maintained while allowing for the individual contributions of guest artists and the live musicians to shine through, creating a cohesive and electrifying live sound that honours their diverse studio recordings.