Primal Scream

Primal Scream Live at The Roundhouse, London

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable night as the legendary Primal Scream descend upon the iconic Roundhouse in London on Monday, 8 December 2025. This is more than just a concert; it’s a sonic pilgrimage to one of the most vital and enduring forces in modern music, set within the hallowed industrial grandeur of one of London’s most celebrated live music spaces. For decades, Primal Scream have consistently pushed boundaries, defying categorisation and delivering electrifying performances that resonate long after the final chord. Their return to the Roundhouse promises to be a testament to their unwavering energy and their unparalleled ability to craft a truly immersive and exhilarating live experience. Witness firsthand why this band continues to captivate audiences worldwide, proving that their primal scream is as potent and relevant as ever.

About Primal Scream

Emerging from Glasgow in the mid-1980s, Primal Scream, fronted by the inimitable Bobby Gillespie, quickly established themselves as pioneers of a sound that fused psychedelic rock, dance, and soul with a rebellious, punk-informed spirit. Their journey began with a more straightforward indie-rock output, but it was their 1991 masterpiece, Screamadelica, that truly catapulted them into the stratosphere. This seminal album, a groundbreaking blend of gospel, house music, and rock, redefined sonic possibilities and earned them widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, featuring timeless anthems like “Loaded,” “Movin’ On Up,” and “Come Together.”

Throughout their illustrious career, Primal Scream have navigated diverse musical landscapes, always with an unyielding commitment to their artistic vision. Albums such as Give Out But Don’t Give Up saw them embrace a more swaggering, Stones-esque rock ‘n’ roll sound, while XTRMNTR in 2000 delivered a raw, politically charged electronic assault. Later works like More Light and Chaosmosis showcased their continued evolution, incorporating a wider palette of electronic textures and sonic experimentation while retaining their signature edge. Their discography is a testament to their restless creativity, marked by a consistent ability to reinvent themselves without ever losing sight of their core identity. Hits like “Rocks,” “Accelerator,” “Swastika Eyes,” and “Country Girl” have become staples of festival stages and radio waves, each embodying the band’s unique blend of anthemic choruses, driving rhythms, and Gillespie’s distinctive, charismatic delivery. Primal Scream are not just a band; they are a cultural phenomenon, their music a potent soundtrack to rebellion, euphoria, and introspection.

Venue Information

The Roundhouse is a legendary Grade II listed former railway engine shed located in Camden Town, London. Since its transformation into a performance venue, it has hosted countless iconic musicians, becoming synonymous with groundbreaking music and unforgettable live experiences. Its unique, circular design and industrial heritage create an intimate yet expansive atmosphere, renowned for its superb acoustics and the electric energy that pulses through its walls during every show. The vibrant spirit of Camden flows through the venue, making it the perfect setting for a band as dynamic and historically significant as Primal Scream. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When Primal Scream take to the stage at The Roundhouse, expect nothing less than a full-throttle sonic immersion. Bobby Gillespie, a born frontman, commands the stage with an electrifying presence, exuding a raw charisma that has captivated audiences for generations. Supported by a tight, dynamic band, they are masters of crafting a live set that ebbs and flows, taking the audience on a journey through their extensive and varied back catalogue.

You can anticipate a setlist that masterfully weaves together the euphoric highs of their dance-infused anthems, such as the irresistible grooves of “Loaded” and the anthemic uplift of “Movin’ On Up,” with the raw, visceral power of their more rock-oriented tracks like “Rocks” and the ferocious intensity of “Accelerator.” Expect to be transported by the psychedelic washes of sound from Screamadelica, potentially delving into tracks that showcase the album’s enduring influence. Simultaneously, prepare for the relentless energy and socio-political commentary found in songs from albums like XTRMNTR, where the music hits with an undeniable force.

Primal Scream’s performance style is renowned for its unpretentious energy and collective fervour. They are not a band that relies on elaborate stage productions; their power lies in the sheer musicality and the palpable connection they forge with their audience. Gillespie’s distinctive vocal style, shifting from a cool, detached delivery to impassioned shouts, is always at the forefront, amplified by the band’s impeccable musicianship. The atmosphere within The Roundhouse is likely to be one of pure exhilaration, with the crowd a vital part of the experience, singing along to every word and moving as one to the infectious rhythms. While exact setlists are always a delightful surprise, a Primal Scream show is a guarantee of a high-energy, sonically rich, and emotionally resonant performance. The duration of the main set is typically around 90 minutes, often followed by an encore that leaves the audience buzzing.

FAQs

Q1: Will Primal Scream be playing material from Screamadelica? Absolutely. Screamadelica is a cornerstone of Primal Scream’s legacy, and it’s virtually guaranteed that beloved tracks from this iconic album will feature in their set. Expect to hear anthems like “Loaded” and “Movin’ On Up” brought to life with their signature live energy.

Q2: What is Bobby Gillespie’s stage presence like? Bobby Gillespie is a legendary frontman, celebrated for his captivating and charismatic stage presence. He possesses an effortless cool, a dancer’s grace, and a punk-rock swagger that commands attention. His delivery is consistently passionate and engaging, making him a magnetic focal point for the performance.

Q3: Can I expect Primal Scream to perform new material in addition to their hits? While Primal Scream are renowned for their incredible back catalogue, they are also a band that continues to evolve. It’s possible they may introduce some newer material into their setlist, showcasing their ongoing creative output and keeping their performances fresh and exciting.

Q4: Does Primal Scream have a specific musical style, or do they experiment? Primal Scream are celebrated for their ability to defy easy categorisation. While often associated with psychedelic rock and indie dance, their music has consistently incorporated elements of soul, funk, punk, and electronic music throughout their career. Their live shows reflect this diversity, offering a dynamic and varied sonic experience.

Q5: How long is a typical Primal Scream concert? A typical Primal Scream concert, including encores, usually runs for approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours. This allows them ample time to traverse their extensive discography, delivering a satisfying and energetic performance for their fans.

Q6: Are Primal Scream known for interacting with the audience during their shows? Bobby Gillespie is known for his connection with the crowd. While not one for extensive stage patter, his energy and the band’s collective performance create a powerful sense of shared experience. The audience’s enthusiastic participation is an integral part of a Primal Scream show, making it feel like a truly communal event.