Sleaford Mods

Sleaford Mods Live at Great Hall, Cardiff University Student Union

Get ready for a no-holds-barred audio assault as Sleaford Mods, the undisputed kings of British punk-rap, descend upon Cardiff. On Saturday, 14 February 2026, the iconic duo will unleash their signature blend of biting social commentary, minimalist beats, and raw, unfiltered vocal delivery upon the hallowed Great Hall at Cardiff University Student Union. This isn’t just a gig; it’s an event. It’s a chance to witness a band at the absolute peak of their powers, delivering a performance that is as vital and necessary as ever. Prepare for an evening that will leave you buzzing, provoked, and utterly exhilarated.

About Sleaford Mods

Born from the bleak industrial landscapes of Nottingham, Jason Williamson and Andrew Fearn have carved a unique and formidable path through the UK’s musical underground and beyond. Since their inception, Sleaford Mods have consistently defied easy categorisation, forging a sound that is undeniably their own. Their music is a potent cocktail of spoken-word poetry, minimalist electronic beats, and furious punk energy, all delivered with an unflinching gaze at the absurdities and injustices of modern British life.

Jason Williamson, the volatile frontman, is a master of observational satire. His lyrics are a torrent of spleen, wit, and righteous anger, painting vivid portraits of working-class struggles, consumerist alienation, and the often-ridiculous pronouncements of politicians and celebrities. He spits, he sneers, he rants, he cajoles, all with an authenticity that is both shocking and compelling. Behind the sonic onslaught stands Andrew Fearn, the unassuming architect of their sonic world. Armed with a laptop and a beer, Fearn conjures up deceptively simple yet incredibly effective basslines and beats that provide the perfect, often sparse, foundation for Williamson’s lyrical onslaught. This stripped-back approach is a deliberate choice, allowing the raw power of Williamson’s voice and words to take centre stage.

Over a career spanning over a decade and a string of critically acclaimed albums, Sleaford Mods have built a fervent cult following and garnered mainstream recognition for their uncompromising artistry. From their early independent releases like Austerity Dogs and Divide and Exit to more recent triumphs such as Key Markets, English Tapas, Eton Alive, and the critically lauded Spare Ribs and UK GRIM, their output has been consistently remarkable. Their live shows are legendary, a testament to their raw energy and the unwavering connection they forge with their audience. Expect a no-frills, no-nonsense affair that prioritises sonic impact and lyrical substance above all else. Their notable hits, though perhaps not in the conventional pop sense, are anthems for the disaffected and the observant alike. Tracks like “Jobseeker,” “Tied Up in Nottz,” “B.O.C. (Beef or Chicken),” “K.I.N.E. (Keep It Nice and Easy),” “Spondon,” and “Punching in a Dream” have become touchstones for their dedicated fanbase, resonating with their unflinching honesty and biting social commentary. Sleaford Mods are more than just a band; they are a vital cultural force, a necessary voice in the contemporary landscape.

Venue Information

The Great Hall at Cardiff University Student Union is a renowned venue for live music, boasting a rich history of hosting some of the biggest names in the industry. Its spacious layout and excellent acoustics make it an ideal setting for a high-energy performance like that of Sleaford Mods. With a capacity designed to foster an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere, the Great Hall promises a memorable night for all attendees. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an unadulterated Sleaford Mods experience. The duo are renowned for their intensely energetic and no-nonsense live performances. Jason Williamson will be on maximum attack, pacing the stage like a caged animal, his every word a weapon. His delivery is a visceral, almost spoken-word onslaught, punctuated by shouts, screams, and an undeniable stage presence. Andrew Fearn, the stoic maestro, will be diligently controlling the beats from his customary spot with his laptop and a beer, his minimalist loops providing the perfect, relentless backdrop to Williamson’s lyrical tirades.

Expect a setlist that cherry-picks the very best from their extensive and critically acclaimed back catalogue. They are likely to delve into fan favourites from albums like Divide and Exit, Key Markets, and English Tapas, alongside potent tracks from their more recent, powerful offerings such as Spare Ribs and UK GRIM. Songs that have become anthems for the disaffected and the observant, such as “Jobseeker,” “Tied Up in Nottz,” “B.O.C.,” and “Spondon,” are practically guaranteed to feature. Each track is a masterclass in concise, impactful songwriting, delivering potent social commentary with a raw, punk-rock urgency.

The duration of a Sleaford Mods set is typically around 75-90 minutes, a concentrated burst of sonic intensity. There are no unnecessary interludes, no lengthy guitar solos, just a relentless, focused barrage of words and beats. This is a performance designed to grab you by the lapels and shake you awake. It’s confrontational, it’s hilarious, it’s deeply insightful, and it’s utterly captivating. You’ll witness a band operating at the zenith of their powers, delivering a show that is as politically charged as it is artistically brilliant. Prepare to be fully immersed in their unique world.

FAQs

Q1: What is Sleaford Mods’ general musical style? Sleaford Mods are best described as a post-punk electronic duo. Their sound is characterised by minimalist, often sparse, electronic beats and basslines created by Andrew Fearn, over which frontman Jason Williamson delivers his distinctive, ranting spoken-word vocals. Their lyrics are typically observational, satirical, and critical of modern British society, politics, and culture.

Q2: Are Sleaford Mods’ live shows aggressive? While their music often tackles aggressive themes and Jason Williamson’s vocal delivery can be described as intense and passionate, their live shows are more accurately characterised by raw energy and confrontational honesty rather than overt aggression. Williamson’s performance is a dynamic and captivating display of his lyrical prowess and stage presence.

Q3: What kind of crowd can I expect at a Sleaford Mods gig? Sleaford Mods attract a diverse and dedicated fanbase, often comprised of people who appreciate their authentic voice and sharp social commentary. Expect a crowd that is engaged, passionate, and receptive to their unique brand of performance.

Q4: Will Sleaford Mods play their older material or focus on new songs? Sleaford Mods are known for playing a well-rounded setlist that draws from their extensive discography. While they will undoubtedly feature tracks from their latest albums, they also consistently include popular and enduring songs from their earlier releases that their fans hold dear.

Q5: Is there an age restriction for Sleaford Mods shows? Typically, Sleaford Mods concerts at venues like the Great Hall are for individuals aged 14 or 16 and over, depending on the specific venue’s policy and licensing. It is advisable to check the ticketing page or the venue’s website for the definitive age restriction for this event.

Q6: How long is a typical Sleaford Mods set? A Sleaford Mods performance usually lasts between 75 to 90 minutes. They deliver a concentrated and powerful set, focusing on delivering their material with maximum impact without extensive downtime.