Mac DeMarco

Mac DeMarco Live at The Prospect Building, Bristol

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the enigmatic and beloved slacker-rock king, Mac DeMarco, graces the historic stage of The Prospect Building in Bristol on Thursday, 13 November 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an immersion into the wonderfully idiosyncratic world of one of modern music’s most distinctive voices. Known for his effortlessly cool demeanour, disarmingly honest songwriting, and a live show that balances introspective melancholy with unbridled, often hilarious, on-stage banter, a Mac DeMarco concert is more than a performance – it’s an experience. Fans can anticipate a night filled with his signature laid-back grooves, introspective lyricism, and the warm, fuzzy feeling that only his unique brand of jangle-pop can provide. This is your chance to witness a true artist at the peak of his powers, sharing his sonic tapestry in the intimate and atmospheric setting of The Prospect Building.

About Mac DeMarco

Born in Duncan, British Columbia, and later finding his artistic home in Montreal and subsequently New York City, Mac DeMarco has carved a singular path through the contemporary music landscape. His career, which officially began to gain traction in the early 2010s, is characterised by a distinctive blend of lo-fi aesthetics, jangly guitar riffs, and a lyrical style that is both profoundly personal and universally relatable. DeMarco’s music often explores themes of love, alienation, everyday anxieties, and the absurdities of modern life, delivered with a delivery that is at once nonchalant and deeply heartfelt.

His early work, including the EPs Rock and Roll Night Club (2012) and the critically acclaimed album 2 (2012), quickly established his unique sonic identity. 2 is widely considered a breakthrough, featuring infectious tracks like “My Kind of Woman” and “Viceroy,” which showcased his knack for crafting catchy melodies with a melancholic undertone. This was followed by Salad Days (2014), an album that saw DeMarco delve deeper into his introspective side, producing fan favourites such as “Chamber of Reflection” and “Passing Out Pieces.”

The subsequent release of This Old Dog (2017) marked a subtle shift, incorporating more synthesiser textures and a slightly more polished production, while retaining his characteristic warmth. Hits from this era include the tender “My Old Man” and the contemplative “On the Level.” More recently, DeMarco has continued to evolve, with albums like Here Comes the Yawning (2019) and his latest offering, Five Easy Hot Dogs (2023), demonstrating his willingness to experiment and push his creative boundaries. Throughout his discography, Mac DeMarco has consistently delivered songs that resonate with a generation, becoming a touchstone for introspective yet ultimately uplifting indie rock. His live performances are renowned for their improvisational spirit, often featuring extended jams, unexpected covers, and plenty of his signature off-the-cuff humour.

Venue Information

The Prospect Building, a cornerstone of Bristol’s cultural landscape, offers a truly exceptional setting for live music. With its rich architectural heritage and thoughtfully curated acoustics, it provides an intimate yet grand atmosphere that perfectly complements the artistic calibre of the performers it hosts. The venue is designed to immerse audiences in the performance, ensuring that every note and every word is felt. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

A Mac DeMarco live performance is a journey through a sonic landscape that is as charmingly familiar as it is refreshingly unpredictable. Fans attending the Bristol show can anticipate a setlist that artfully navigates his extensive and beloved back catalogue. Expect to be serenaded by the hazy, romantic allure of “My Kind of Woman,” a track that has become synonymous with his early success and a staple of his live shows. The introspective beauty of “Chamber of Reflection,” with its hypnotic synth line and DeMarco’s signature detached yet poignant vocals, is almost certainly on the cards, promising a moment of collective sonic introspection.

From the more upbeat and instantly catchy “Ode to Viceroy,” a testament to his knack for crafting effortlessly cool anthems, to the deeply personal and touching “My Old Man,” the setlist will likely offer a well-rounded representation of his artistic evolution. Tracks from Salad Days are always a highlight, showcasing his mature songwriting and his ability to capture complex emotions with simple, elegant melodies. The set will undoubtedly also feature gems from his more recent work, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to musical exploration.

DeMarco’s performance style is famously laid-back, almost nonchalant, yet possesses an undeniable magnetic pull. He’s not one for elaborate stage theatrics; instead, his presence is defined by an authentic, unpretentious charm. Expect him to weave between instruments with practiced ease, often pausing to share anecdotes, engage in playful banter with the audience, or even indulge in a spontaneous, often hilarious, on-stage improvisation. This improvisational spirit is a hallmark of his live shows, meaning no two Mac DeMarco concerts are ever truly the same. The duration of the performance will typically span around 90 minutes to two hours, including any encores, offering ample time to soak in his unique brand of musical magic. Prepare for an evening that is both musically satisfying and brimming with character.

FAQs

Q1: Will Mac DeMarco be playing songs from his latest album, Five Easy Hot Dogs? A1: While Mac DeMarco is known for evolving his setlists, Five Easy Hot Dogs represents a more instrumental and ambient direction for him. It’s possible he might weave in excerpts or perform a few select tracks, but the core of his live shows typically leans towards his more vocal-driven and established hits. However, given his unpredictable nature, never say never!

Q2: Is it likely that Mac DeMarco will do an encore? A2: Absolutely. Mac DeMarco is a seasoned performer, and encores are a very common and expected part of his live sets. He often uses this opportunity to play fan favourites or even surprise the audience with something unexpected.

Q3: What is Mac DeMarco’s typical interaction with the audience like during a show? A3: Mac DeMarco is renowned for his engaging and often humorous interaction with the crowd. Expect plenty of casual banter, witty remarks, and a general sense of informality. He often breaks the fourth wall, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that makes the audience feel like they’re part of the performance, not just observers.

Q4: Are there any specific songs that are almost guaranteed to be played? A4: Certain tracks have become indelible parts of the Mac DeMarco live experience. You can almost certainly count on hearing enduring fan favourites like “My Kind of Woman,” “Chamber of Reflection,” and “Ode to Viceroy.” These songs are consistently met with enthusiastic reception and are central to his live persona.

Q5: Will there be any opening acts for Mac DeMarco? A5: Information regarding supporting acts is typically announced closer to the event date. Keep an eye on our official event page and social media channels for the latest updates on any opening performers.

Q6: How would you describe the typical atmosphere of a Mac DeMarco concert? A6: The atmosphere at a Mac DeMarco concert is a unique blend of laid-back coolness and genuine warmth. It’s relaxed yet energised, with a strong sense of community among fans. You’ll find yourself swaying to the music, laughing at his on-stage antics, and appreciating the deeply personal yet universally resonant lyrics. It’s an environment where you can truly be yourself and enjoy the music.