Idlewild

Idlewild Live at Barrowland, Glasgow

About the Event

Get ready for an unforgettable night of Scottish indie rock royalty as Idlewild takes to the legendary stage of the Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow on Sunday, 7 December 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a homecoming for one of Scotland’s most cherished bands, set to ignite the iconic Barrowland with their signature blend of anthemic choruses, raw energy, and poignant lyricism. For dedicated fans and newcomers alike, this promises to be a special evening, a chance to immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere that only Idlewild performing in their spiritual home can deliver. The Barrowland, with its distinctive sprung dancefloor and unparalleled acoustics, provides the perfect canvas for Idlewild’s dynamic sound, promising an intimate yet colossal experience that will resonate long after the final chord. Expect a night where history, passion, and pure musical brilliance collide, celebrating the enduring legacy and vital present of this beloved band.

About Idlewild

Emerging from the vibrant Scottish music scene in the mid-1990s, Idlewild have carved out a significant and enduring niche in the landscape of British alternative rock. Formed in Edinburgh but with deep roots and a profound connection to Glasgow, the band quickly distinguished themselves with their ferocious energy and Roddy Woomble’s distinctive, often introspective, lyrical prowess. Their early work, exemplified by albums like Hope Is Important (1998) and the critically acclaimed 100 Broken Windows (2000), showcased a punk-infused urgency married with melodic sensibility.

However, it was the release of The Remote Part in 2002 that truly propelled them into the mainstream consciousness. This seminal album, featuring anthems such as “You Held the World in Your Arms,” “When I Argue I See Shapes,” and the deeply affecting “Live in a Hiding Place,” cemented Idlewild’s reputation for crafting emotionally resonant and sonically powerful music. The album’s success led to widespread critical acclaim and international tours, solidifying their status as one of the UK’s most vital live acts.

Over their career, Idlewild has consistently evolved, exploring different sonic textures without ever straying from their core identity. Albums like Warnings/Promises (2005) and Act of Man (2009) demonstrated their continued artistic growth and willingness to experiment. More recently, their comeback album Everything Ever Written (2014) and Interview Music (2019) proved that their creative fire still burns brightly, delivering fresh material that resonated with both longtime fans and a new generation discovering their work. Known for their passionate live performances, Idlewild have built a reputation for delivering electrifying sets that capture the raw emotion and exhilarating sound that has defined their career. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to blend introspection with anthemic force, creating music that speaks to the heart and ignites the spirit.

Venue Information

The Barrowland Ballroom, affectionately known as “The Barras,” is an iconic Glasgow venue renowned for its distinctive neon sign, sprung dancefloor, and legendary status in the live music scene. This historic venue has hosted countless legendary artists across diverse genres, consistently delivering an electric atmosphere and an unparalleled live music experience. Its intimate yet grand setting makes it a cherished location for artists and audiences alike, offering superb acoustics that bring the music to life. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a masterclass in Scottish indie rock when Idlewild takes the stage at the Barrowland. Their setlist is always a carefully curated journey through their rich discography, promising a blend of the anthemic fan favourites that have defined their career and perhaps a few deeper cuts for the devoted. Expect to hear soaring choruses from The Remote Part, such as the enduring “You Held the World in Your Arms,” a track that has lost none of its power to unite a crowd. The raw, unadulterated energy of early hits like “Chandelier” will undoubtedly ignite the dancefloor, transporting audiences back to the visceral thrill of their formative years.

Woomble’s distinctive vocal delivery, shifting from heartfelt introspection to a powerful roar, is a cornerstone of their live performance. The interplay between the guitarists, often delivering intricate melodies alongside driving riffs, creates a sonic tapestry that is both complex and immensely satisfying. Expect the band to showcase their renowned performance style: a potent cocktail of unbridled passion, technical proficiency, and a genuine connection with their audience. They are known for their high-octane shows, where the music feels alive and the energy is palpable.

While specific setlists are always a delightful surprise, fans can anticipate a performance that ebbs and flows, moving from the more frenetic, punk-tinged tracks to the emotionally resonant ballads that showcase their lyrical depth. The energy is guaranteed to build throughout the night, culminating in a powerful encore that leaves the audience breathless and exhilarated. The duration of the performance will be a generous showcase of their talent, typically running for around 90-120 minutes, allowing ample time for them to delve into their extensive catalogue and deliver a truly memorable experience. This is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of one of Scotland’s most important rock bands in one of their most beloved settings.

FAQs

Q1: Will Idlewild be playing songs from their early albums like Captain or 100 Broken Windows? A1: Idlewild are known for their comprehensive setlists that span their entire career. While it’s always subject to the night’s energy and band’s discretion, it’s highly likely that fan favourites from their earlier works, including tracks from Captain and 100 Broken Windows, will feature prominently in their performance. Their shows often offer a nostalgic journey alongside their newer material.

Q2: How long is Idlewild’s typical set time? A2: Idlewild’s live sets are usually substantial, offering a full evening’s entertainment. You can generally expect them to play for approximately 90 to 120 minutes, sometimes even longer if the crowd’s energy is particularly high. This allows them ample opportunity to showcase their diverse catalogue and deliver an impactful performance.

Q3: Is Roddy Woomble still the lead singer for Idlewild? A3: Yes, Roddy Woomble remains the dynamic and charismatic lead singer of Idlewild. His distinctive vocals and stage presence are an integral part of the band’s identity and have been since their inception. He continues to be the voice and frontman for the band’s current activities and live performances.

Q4: What is Idlewild’s usual performance style like? A4: Idlewild are renowned for their energetic and passionate live performances. They are a band that truly thrives on stage, delivering a powerful and engaging show. Expect a mix of raw intensity, anthemic singalongs, intricate guitar work, and Roddy Woomble’s compelling vocal delivery. They connect deeply with their audience, creating a vibrant and memorable concert experience.

Q5: Will there be an opportunity to purchase Idlewild merchandise at the venue? A5: Yes, typically bands like Idlewild have merchandise stands at their concerts, offering a range of items such as t-shirts, vinyl records, posters, and other band-related memorabilia. It’s always a great way to support the artist and take home a memento of the evening.

Q6: Is this concert suitable for younger fans who may be new to Idlewild? A6: Absolutely. While Idlewild have a rich history and a dedicated fanbase, their music is accessible and exciting for all ages. Their anthemic choruses and powerful live sound make for an engaging experience, regardless of how long you’ve been a fan. The Barrowland’s atmosphere is electric and inclusive, making it a great place for both long-time devotees and newcomers to discover or rediscover the magic of Idlewild.