Mogwai

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Mogwai Live at the Great Hall, Exeter

About the Event

Prepare for an immersive and sonically expansive evening as pioneering Scottish post-rock titans, Mogwai, descend upon the historic Great Hall in Exeter on Thursday, 19 February 2026. This is more than just a concert; it’s an opportunity to experience a band at the zenith of their powers, renowned for their masterful command of atmosphere, dynamics, and raw emotional power. Mogwai have carved a unique path through the musical landscape, consistently pushing boundaries and captivating audiences with their instrumental prowess and visceral live performances. Their return to Exeter promises an unforgettable journey through their celebrated discography, a testament to their enduring appeal and ability to conjure profound sonic landscapes that resonate long after the final note fades.

About Mogwai

Formed in Glasgow in 1995, Mogwai quickly emerged as a leading force in the burgeoning post-rock scene, earning critical acclaim for their potent blend of ambient textures, heavy guitar riffs, and an almost cinematic sense of narrative woven through their instrumental compositions. Comprising Stuart Braithwaite (vocals, guitar), Barry Burns (guitar, keyboards, vocals), Dominic Aitchison (bass), and Martin Bulloch (drums), the band’s early work, such as their debut album Young Team (1997), showcased a raw, unpolished intensity that captivated listeners. Over their illustrious career, Mogwai have released ten studio albums, each demonstrating their evolution while retaining the core elements that define their sound.

Albums like Happy Songs for Happy People (2003) saw them experiment with more melodic and accessible structures, while Mr Beast (2006) leaned into a heavier, more direct approach. Their 2014 album, Rave Tapes, further solidified their experimental spirit, and As the Love Continues (2021), their latest offering, garnered widespread critical praise and saw them embrace a slightly more vocal-driven sensibility at times, while still delivering the instrumental epics that are their hallmark. Throughout their journey, Mogwai have demonstrated an unparalleled ability to create music that is both intensely personal and universally resonant, often eschewing lyrics for extended instrumental passages that allow the listener to project their own emotions and interpretations onto the sonic tapestry. Notable tracks that have become live staples and fan favourites include the brooding intensity of “Mogwai Fear Satan,” the anthemic build-up of “Glasgow Mega-Snake,” the deceptively delicate yet powerful “Take Me Somewhere Nice,” and the exhilarating “Auto Rock.” Their music has also found acclaim in the world of film and television scoring, further showcasing their aptitude for crafting evocative soundscapes.

Venue Information

The Great Hall, located within the University of Exeter, is a renowned venue celebrated for its excellent acoustics and impressive architectural presence. With its grand proportions and historical significance, it provides an ideal setting for the expansive sonic capabilities of Mogwai. The hall has a long-standing tradition of hosting diverse and high-calibre musical performances, ensuring a rich and immersive listening experience for all attendees. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Mogwai’s live performances are legendary for their dynamic range and sheer visceral impact. Expect an evening that ebbs and flows, moving from moments of breathtaking, delicate quietude to thunderous crescendos that will shake you to your core. The band are masters of build and release, their sets meticulously crafted to take the audience on an emotional and sonic journey. Their performance style is famously understated and focused, allowing the music to speak for itself. There are no flashy pyrotechnics or over-the-top theatrics; instead, the power lies in the sheer sonic force and intricate interplay between the musicians.

The setlist for this show will undoubtedly draw from their extensive and critically acclaimed back catalogue. Fans can anticipate a blend of iconic anthems and deeper cuts, showcasing the breadth and evolution of their sound. Expect to hear the sweeping grandeur of tracks like “Helicon 1” and “Hunted by a Freak,” alongside the crushing weight of “Like Herod” and the more recent sonic explorations from their latest albums. While the exact setlist is always a closely guarded secret, the common thread will be their unparalleled ability to create atmosphere and tension. The use of lighting plays a crucial role in their live shows, often shifting from subtle hues to dramatic washes that perfectly complement the mood of each piece. The set duration is typically around 90 minutes to 2 hours, offering ample time to delve deep into the Mogwai universe. Prepare to be transported by layers of intricate guitar work, powerful drumming, and an immersive sound that fills the space.

FAQs

Q1: Will Mogwai play their older, heavier material or focus more on newer tracks? Mogwai are renowned for crafting setlists that honour their entire discography, seamlessly blending fan-favourite older tracks with material from their more recent albums. You can expect a journey through their career, showcasing both the raw power of their early work and the refined artistry of their later releases.

Q2: Does Mogwai typically perform with a setlist or are their shows more improvisational? While Mogwai are incredibly adept at creating powerful live music, their sets are generally carefully curated and rehearsed to ensure the maximum impact and flow of the performance. While there might be slight variations each night, the core structure of the setlist is meticulously planned.

Q3: Are there many vocals in a typical Mogwai live set? Mogwai are primarily an instrumental band, though Stuart Braithwaite does provide vocals on a number of tracks. The emphasis in their live shows is on the sonic landscape and instrumental prowess, with vocals often serving as another textural element rather than the sole focus.

Q4: What is the typical crowd atmosphere like at a Mogwai gig? Mogwai audiences are generally highly engaged and respectful, appreciating the immersive nature of the performance. Expect a crowd that is there to soak in the music, whether it’s head-nodding to the heavy riffs or standing captivated during the quieter passages. It’s an atmosphere of shared appreciation for sonic artistry.

Q5: Can I expect any surprise guest appearances from other artists during the show? Mogwai typically tour as their core four-piece unit. While collaborations are not unheard of in their broader career, surprise guest appearances at their standard live shows are rare. The focus is squarely on the immense talent and chemistry of the band themselves.

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