Portugal The Man

Portugal. The Man Live at New Century Hall, Manchester

Get ready, Manchester! The enigmatic and genre-bending force that is Portugal. The Man is set to descend upon the iconic New Century Hall for a truly unforgettable evening on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an immersion into a world of sonic exploration, infectious grooves, and electrifying stage presence. Portugal. The Man have cultivated a reputation for delivering electrifying live shows that transcend mere musical performance, transforming each concert into a vibrant, communal experience that leaves audiences buzzing long after the final note fades. Prepare to be captivated by their unique blend of psychedelic rock, pop sensibilities, and a dash of otherworldly charm, all within the historic and intimate setting of New Century Hall.

About Portugal. The Man

Born from the ashes of the Alaskan rock scene, Portugal. The Man, led by the charismatic John Gourley, has evolved from a fiercely independent psychedelic rock outfit into a globally recognised phenomenon. Since their formation in 2004, the band has consistently defied expectations, carving out a distinctive sonic landscape that is both experimental and remarkably accessible. Their journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of artistic evolution, each album a testament to their willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories.

Initially, Portugal. The Man garnered a devoted following within the indie rock circuit for their raw, analogue-driven sound, reminiscent of classic psychedelic pioneers. Early releases like “Church Mouth” and “Censored, Colors” showcased their experimental spirit and Gourley’s distinctive vocal delivery. However, it was their transition to a more polished, pop-infused sound, without sacrificing their artistic integrity, that propelled them into the mainstream consciousness.

Their breakout hit, “Feel It Still,” from the critically acclaimed 2017 album “Woodstock,” became a global sensation, topping charts worldwide and cementing their status as formidable songwriters. This track, with its infectious falsetto hook and instantly recognisable bassline, perfectly encapsulated their ability to craft undeniably catchy tunes that still retained a layer of sophisticated artistry. But Portugal. The Man are far more than just “Feel It Still.” Their discography boasts a rich tapestry of tracks that showcase their versatility. Anthemic singalongs like “Modern Jesus” explore philosophical themes with a driving, rock-infused energy, while the introspective beauty of “Atomic Man” delves into personal reflection. Tracks like “Purple Yellow Red and Blue” showcase their knack for vibrant, psychedelic pop, and “Sleep Forever” offers a more expansive, atmospheric journey. Throughout their career, they have consistently released music that is both thought-provoking and incredibly enjoyable, demonstrating a rare talent for engaging a broad audience without compromising their artistic vision. Their live performances are a direct extension of this ethos, a vibrant celebration of their diverse catalogue and their enduring commitment to musical exploration.

Venue Information

New Century Hall stands as a testament to Manchester’s rich industrial heritage, beautifully reimagined as a premier live music and events venue. Located in the heart of the city, this historic building offers a unique and atmospheric setting for concerts, boasting stunning architectural features that create an intimate yet grand experience for attendees. With its impressive acoustics and a capacity that fosters a strong connection between artist and audience, New Century Hall provides the perfect canvas for Portugal. The Man’s vibrant performance. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a Portugal. The Man show that is nothing short of a psychedelic spectacle. Their live performances are renowned for their dynamic energy, captivating stagecraft, and an unwavering commitment to creating an immersive experience for their fans. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves together their extensive discography, seamlessly transitioning from the infectious, chart-topping anthems that brought them global fame to the deeper, more experimental cuts that have defined their artistic journey.

You’ll undoubtedly be treated to crowd-pleasing renditions of “Feel It Still,” where the entire venue will undoubtedly erupt in a unified chorus, and the driving force of “Modern Jesus” will have you raising your hands in unison. But this is Portugal. The Man, so prepare for more than just the hits. They have a remarkable ability to breathe new life into their beloved tracks, often reimagining them with extended jams, unexpected instrumental flourishes, and a palpable sense of improvisational freedom. You might find yourself lost in the hypnotic grooves of older material, or mesmerised by the psychedelic textures woven throughout their more recent work.

Their performance style is characterized by an infectious enthusiasm and a genuine connection with the audience. John Gourley is a captivating frontman, exuding a natural charisma and a playful demeanour that draws everyone in. The band members are a tight-knit unit, their musical synergy evident in every note. Expect vibrant lighting displays that complement the sonic landscape, often shifting and swirling to create a dreamlike atmosphere. They are known for their unpredictable and engaging stage banter, often sprinkled with a healthy dose of humour and philosophical musings. While the exact setlist remains a delightful mystery, you can anticipate a show that is both musically diverse and emotionally resonant. The duration of the performance will typically be around 90-120 minutes, allowing ample time for the band to explore their extensive catalogue and deliver a truly memorable set. This is not a show to be passively observed; it’s an event to be experienced, a communal celebration of music that will leave you feeling energised, inspired, and utterly transported.

FAQs

1. Will Portugal. The Man play “Feel It Still” during their set? Absolutely! “Feel It Still” is one of Portugal. The Man’s most iconic and beloved tracks, and it’s a staple of their live performances. You can expect the entire venue to be singing along to its unforgettable chorus.

2. Is Portugal. The Man known for their live improvisations? Yes, Portugal. The Man are known for their live performances often featuring extended instrumental sections and improvisational jams. They aren’t afraid to deviate from the studio versions of their songs, adding a unique and spontaneous element to each show.

3. Can I expect to hear songs from their earlier, more psychedelic albums? While their later work has brought them mainstream success, Portugal. The Man have a deep appreciation for their artistic roots. They frequently incorporate tracks from their earlier, more psychedelic albums into their setlists, offering a well-rounded journey through their musical evolution.

4. What is John Gourley’s stage presence like? John Gourley is a charismatic and engaging frontman. He has a natural stage presence, often interacting with the audience, sharing anecdotes, and exuding a genuine enthusiasm for performing that is infectious.

5. Is Portugal. The Man’s music generally upbeat and danceable, or more laid-back? Portugal. The Man’s music encompasses a wide spectrum. They have incredibly upbeat and danceable hits like “Feel It Still” and “Purple Yellow Red and Blue,” but also explore more introspective and atmospheric sounds on tracks like “Sleep Forever.” Their live shows expertly balance these different moods, offering something for everyone.

6. Will there be any support acts announced for Portugal. The Man at New Century Hall? Information regarding support acts is typically announced closer to the event date. We recommend keeping an eye on our official ticketing and venue channels for the latest updates.