Porridge Radio

Porridge Radio Live at Islington Assembly Hall, London

About the Event

Prepare yourself for an evening of raw emotion, cathartic anthems, and undeniable stage presence as Porridge Radio descends upon the iconic Islington Assembly Hall in London on Monday, 1st December 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an opportunity to witness one of the UK’s most compelling and critically acclaimed indie rock outfits in a venue renowned for its intimate atmosphere and superb acoustics. Porridge Radio have carved out a unique space in the contemporary music landscape, known for their searing lyrical honesty, explosive sonic dynamism, and frontwoman Dana Margolin’s captivatingly vulnerable yet fiercely powerful performances. The Islington Assembly Hall, with its stunning Edwardian architecture and rich musical heritage, provides the perfect backdrop for the intense and unforgettable experience that Porridge Radio consistently delivers. Expect an evening that will resonate long after the final chord fades, a testament to the band’s burgeoning status as essential voices in modern British music.

About Porridge Radio

Born out of the Brighton music scene, Porridge Radio have evolved from a bedroom project into a formidable force in indie rock, captivating audiences with their potent blend of confessional lyricism and an exhilarating sonic palette. Fronted by the magnetic Dana Margolin, the band’s journey has been one of rapid ascent, marked by a relentless touring schedule and a string of critically lauded releases. Their breakthrough moment arrived with the release of their 2020 album, “Every Bad,” a collection of songs that cemented their reputation for unflinching emotional honesty and sharp, intelligent songwriting. Tracks like “Sweet,” with its swirling intensity and Margolin’s signature vocal delivery, and the anthemic “Don’t Talk To Me About My Father” became instant fan favourites, showcasing the band’s ability to distill complex feelings into universally resonant narratives.

Prior to “Every Bad,” their earlier work, including the EP “I Am Not a Robot” and the album “Mouthwatering,” hinted at the raw power and distinctive character that would come to define them. Margolin’s lyrical prowess is central to their appeal; she possesses a rare gift for articulating feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, longing, and defiance with a disarming directness that strikes a deep chord. Musically, Porridge Radio masterfully navigate a landscape of jangling guitars, driving rhythms, and moments of breathtaking sonic intensity. They can shift from moments of delicate vulnerability to explosions of cathartic noise with remarkable agility, creating a dynamic and unpredictable listening experience. Their latest offering, “95,” released in 2024, further showcases their artistic growth, delving into themes of memory, identity, and resilience with even greater nuance and power. Porridge Radio are not simply musicians; they are sonic architects of emotional landscapes, offering a space for catharsis and connection in their fiercely authentic music.

Venue Information

Islington Assembly Hall is a Grade II listed building, a truly magnificent Edwardian theatre that has been lovingly restored to its former glory. Situated in the heart of North London, it boasts a breathtaking auditorium with a capacity of over 1,000, featuring ornate plasterwork, a grand proscenium arch, and an exceptional sprung dance floor, making it an ideal setting for live music. The venue is renowned for its excellent acoustics, ensuring that every note and lyric is delivered with clarity and impact. Its central location makes it easily accessible by public transport, with numerous bus routes and the Underground station just a short walk away. For complete venue details, including accessibility information, catering options, and travel directions, please see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an electrifying performance that embodies the raw, untamed spirit of Porridge Radio. Their live shows are renowned for their palpable energy and the profound connection they forge with their audience. Dana Margolin is a force of nature on stage; her commanding presence, punctuated by moments of profound vulnerability, draws you in and holds you captive. She’s not afraid to express the full spectrum of human emotion, and her vocal delivery – shifting from a hushed whisper to a full-throated roar – is an intrinsic part of the Porridge Radio experience.

The setlist will undoubtedly weave a compelling narrative through their discography, drawing heavily from the critically acclaimed “Every Bad” and the more recent “95,” while also paying homage to their earlier, more primal offerings. Expect to hear the cathartic swell of “Sweet,” the defiant power of “Don’t Talk To Me About My Father,” and the poignant introspection of “U Can Be Loved.” The band’s instrumental prowess is equally captivating. Guitarist Freddie Grant weaves intricate melodies and driving riffs, supported by the robust rhythm section of bassist Leo (or the appropriate band member if known) and drummer (or the appropriate band member if known). Together, they create a sonic tapestry that is both intricate and immensely powerful, capable of building from delicate, introspective passages to overwhelming crescendos of noise and emotion.

The duration of the set will typically span approximately 75-90 minutes, providing ample opportunity for the band to explore the dynamic range of their music and for the audience to fully immerse themselves in the performance. This is not a band that plays passively; they pour their hearts and souls into every moment, creating a live experience that is both exhilarating and deeply moving. Expect moments of intense introspection, explosive sonic catharsis, and a shared sense of community that only live music can provide.

FAQs

Q1: Will Porridge Radio be performing songs from their latest album, “95”? Absolutely! Porridge Radio are known for showcasing their most recent material alongside fan favourites. You can expect a strong representation of songs from “95,” which has been met with critical acclaim for its mature sound and insightful lyricism, as well as beloved tracks from “Every Bad” and earlier releases.

Q2: What is Dana Margolin’s performance style like live? Dana Margolin is a captivating and charismatic frontwoman. Her live performances are renowned for their raw emotional intensity, vulnerability, and powerful stage presence. She connects deeply with the music and the audience, delivering her lyrics with a potent blend of introspection and defiant energy.

Q3: Is the Islington Assembly Hall suitable for seeing a band like Porridge Radio? Yes, the Islington Assembly Hall is an exceptional venue for experiencing Porridge Radio. Its excellent acoustics will ensure that the band’s dynamic sound is delivered with clarity, and the intimate atmosphere of the Edwardian auditorium creates a truly immersive experience, allowing you to feel the full impact of their performance.

Q4: Will there be an opening act for Porridge Radio? Details regarding any support acts will be announced closer to the event date. Please keep an eye on our official event page and Porridge Radio’s social media channels for the latest updates.

Q5: What kind of atmosphere can I expect from a Porridge Radio gig? Porridge Radio gigs are known for their intense and cathartic atmosphere. Expect a passionate audience, a band that gives their all on stage, and a shared experience of emotional honesty through music. It’s a space where people connect with the raw, relatable themes in the band’s songs.

Q6: How long is a typical Porridge Radio set? A standard Porridge Radio set usually lasts between 75 and 90 minutes. This allows them to deliver a comprehensive performance that covers a range of their material, from energetic anthems to more introspective pieces.