PET NEEDS

PET NEEDS Live at Manchester The Deaf Institute - Friday, 28 November 2025

Get ready for a night of electrifying energy and raw, unadulterated rock and roll as PET NEEDS descend upon Manchester’s iconic The Deaf Institute on Friday, 28 November 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a chance to witness one of the most vital and exciting bands currently tearing up the UK music scene in an intimate and legendary setting. PET NEEDS are renowned for their blistering live performances, a cathartic explosion of sound and emotion that leaves audiences breathless and wanting more. Their return to Manchester promises to be a highlight of the musical calendar, a testament to their burgeoning reputation and the unwavering passion they bring to every stage. Prepare to be swept away by their infectious anthems and the sheer unbridled joy of live music.

About PET NEEDS

Hailing from Colchester, PET NEEDS have rapidly carved out a significant niche for themselves in the UK’s vibrant indie-rock landscape. Formed with a shared love for energetic, no-nonsense songwriting and a healthy dose of self-deprecating humour, the quartet – comprised of Johnny (vocals/guitar), George (guitar), Jack (bass), and Leo (drums) – have quickly become a band synonymous with exhilarating live shows and a relatable, often poignant lyrical narrative. Their journey began with a series of independently released singles and EPs that garnered significant buzz within the DIY scene, showcasing a knack for crafting catchy, guitar-driven anthems that resonate with themes of everyday struggles, anxieties, and the search for connection.

Their debut album, “Primetime Entertainment,” released in 2022, was a watershed moment. It perfectly captured their signature sound: a potent blend of infectious melodies, driving rhythms, and Johnny’s distinctive vocal delivery, which swings effortlessly between impassioned shouts and moments of heartfelt vulnerability. The album spawned fan favourites like the anthemic “We Are All Doomed”, a defiant shout-along track that perfectly encapsulates their darkly optimistic outlook, and “F.O.D.” (F*ck Off, Dad), a blistering track that showcases their punk-infused energy and sharp lyrical wit. These tracks, along with others like “Knights of the Soggy Biscuit” and “The Weekend,” have become staples of their live set, cementing their status as a band capable of delivering both stadium-ready choruses and intimate, raw emotion. Their live performances are where PET NEEDS truly shine, transforming any venue into a pulsating hub of collective energy. They’ve honed their craft through relentless touring, sharing stages with established acts and captivating audiences at festivals, building a dedicated following one unforgettable show at a time. PET NEEDS are more than just a band; they are a phenomenon, a much-needed injection of authentic, exhilarating rock and roll for a generation.

Venue Information

The Deaf Institute is a beloved Manchester institution, known for its intimate atmosphere and rich musical heritage. Housed within a stunning Victorian building, its distinctive tiered layout offers excellent sightlines from almost every angle, ensuring a truly immersive experience. The venue has played host to countless legendary performances, from emerging artists to established icons, and its acoustics are renowned for their clarity and power. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a PET NEEDS performance that is nothing short of a full-throttle assault on the senses, delivered with an infectious and authentic energy that is rare in today’s music scene. Their live shows are less about polished perfection and more about raw, unadulterated passion. Expect a setlist that seamlessly blends fan favourites with tracks that showcase their continued evolution as songwriters and musicians. You’ll be singing along to the anthemic choruses of “We Are All Doomed” and “The Weekend” with every fibre of your being, feeling the collective catharsis of the crowd. Get ready for the high-octane energy of “F.O.D.” and the infectious bounce of “Knights of the Soggy Biscuit,” songs that are designed to make you move and lose yourself in the moment.

Beyond the singalongs, PET NEEDS are masters of dynamic performance. They can shift from thunderous, guitar-driven bangers to more introspective, emotionally charged moments with remarkable fluidity. Johnny’s stage presence is captivating; he commands attention with his raw honesty and a genuine connection with the audience, often sharing anecdotes and witty observations between songs. The band’s chemistry is palpable, a tight unit that feeds off each other’s energy, creating a powerful sonic tapestry that is both intricate and explosive. The guitars wail, the bass rumbles, and Leo’s drumming is a relentless force, driving each track forward with unyielding power. A PET NEEDS show is an experience of shared euphoria. It’s a space where you can feel the weight of the world lift with every powerful chord and every shouted lyric. The typical set duration for a PET NEEDS headline show is usually around the 75-90 minute mark, a solid hour and a half of non-stop musical brilliance. They are known for giving their all, leaving nothing on the stage, and ensuring that every single person in the room feels like they’ve witnessed something truly special.

FAQs

Q: Will PET NEEDS be playing songs from their latest album, “Primetime Entertainment,” alongside older material? A: Absolutely. PET NEEDS are known for crafting dynamic setlists that celebrate their entire discography. You can expect to hear anthems from “Primetime Entertainment” such as “We Are All Doomed” and “F.O.D.,” woven seamlessly with beloved tracks from their earlier EPs and singles that have garnered them their dedicated following. They aim to provide a comprehensive journey through their musical output.

Q: What is PET NEEDS’ typical performance style like? Is it high-energy and interactive? A: PET NEEDS are renowned for their exceptionally high-energy and interactive live performances. They are not a band to stand still; expect a dynamic and engaging show where the band members pour their hearts and souls into every note. Lead singer Johnny is particularly adept at connecting with the audience, fostering a sense of community and shared experience through his charismatic stage presence and often humorous banter between songs. Prepare for plenty of crowd participation and a genuinely electric atmosphere.

Q: Are there any particular songs that are always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at a PET NEEDS gig? A: Without a doubt! Songs like the anthemic “We Are All Doomed” are always a massive highlight, with the entire crowd joining in for a cathartic singalong. “F.O.D.” (F*ck Off, Dad) is another guaranteed explosion of energy, showcasing their punkier side. Tracks like “The Weekend” and “Knights of the Soggy Biscuit” are also firm fan favourites, guaranteed to get the room bouncing and singing along. Their ability to craft such universally relatable and catchy choruses means that most of their setlist becomes a crowd-pleaser.

Q: How long does a typical PET NEEDS headline set usually last? A: You’re in for a substantial musical treat! A typical headline set from PET NEEDS usually runs for approximately 75 to 90 minutes. They pack a lot of punch into that time, delivering a relentless barrage of their signature energetic rock and roll, ensuring that the duration feels both satisfying and leaves you wanting more.

Q: Is PET NEEDS known for any specific pre-show rituals or audience interactions before their sets? A: While PET NEEDS are known for their genuine and down-to-earth nature, they don’t typically engage in highly elaborate or secret pre-show rituals that are widely publicized. Their primary focus is on connecting with the audience during the show. However, you might find them milling around near the merch stand or engaging with fans before the gig if schedules permit, reflecting their accessible and appreciative attitude towards their supporters. The real ritual is the electrifying performance they deliver once the lights go down.

Q: For fans travelling from out of town, are PET NEEDS generally amenable to meeting fans for autographs or photos after the show? A: PET NEEDS have a reputation for being a very approachable and appreciative band. While it’s never guaranteed due to time constraints, security, and travel arrangements, they are generally known to be amenable to meeting fans for autographs or quick photos after their shows, especially if they are not rushing off to their next destination. Checking with venue staff or looking out for them near the stage or merch area after the performance is your best bet. They understand and value the support they receive.