Sub Focus - The Warehouse Project

Sub Focus at The Warehouse Project: Mayfield Depot, Manchester - Friday, 5th December 2025

Get ready for an electrifying night as drum and bass titan Sub Focus descends upon the iconic Mayfield Depot for a headline set at The Warehouse Project. This isn’t just another club night; it’s a pilgrimage for lovers of bass music, a chance to witness a true master of the genre deliver his signature sound in one of Manchester’s most legendary industrial spaces. The sheer scale and raw energy of Mayfield Depot provide the perfect backdrop for Sub Focus’s immersive and high-octane performances, promising a night of unparalleled sonic intensity and unforgettable rave moments. Prepare for a journey through the spectrum of drum and bass, from euphoric anthems to bone-rattling drops, all expertly curated by one of the scene’s most respected and innovative artists.

About Sub Focus - The Warehouse Project

Nick Douwma, better known to the world as Sub Focus, has been a formidable force in electronic music for over two decades, consistently pushing the boundaries of drum and bass with his distinctive production flair and electrifying DJ sets. Emerging onto the scene in the early 2000s, he quickly garnered attention for his sophisticated sound design, intricate melodies, and powerful basslines. His early releases, such as “Soundwave” and “X-Ray,” showcased a talent for crafting tracks that were both commercially appealing and deeply rooted in the underground ethos of the genre.

Sub Focus’s debut album, Sub Focus, released in 2009, was a landmark moment, featuring a collection of critically acclaimed tracks that solidified his status as a leading figure. Hits like the anthemic “Rock It,” the darkly energetic “Breathe,” and the melodic masterpiece “Timewarp” became instant club classics and radio staples. His subsequent album, Torus (2013), continued this trajectory of success, featuring collaborations with acclaimed vocalists and producing further chart-topping singles such as the massive “Chasing Ghosts” and the infectious “Endorphins.”

Beyond his solo work, Sub Focus has been a prolific collaborator and remixer, lending his talents to artists across the electronic music spectrum. His ability to inject his signature sound into diverse musical palettes has earned him widespread respect. His live performances are renowned for their dynamic energy, intricate mixing, and the seamless integration of his own productions alongside carefully selected tracks from fellow artists. This meticulous approach to DJing, coupled with his visionary production capabilities, has ensured that Sub Focus remains at the forefront of drum and bass, captivating audiences worldwide with his enduring passion and innovative spirit.

Venue Information

The Mayfield Depot stands as a testament to Manchester’s industrial heritage, a vast and atmospheric former railway depot that has been transformed into one of the UK’s most exciting and imposing event spaces. With its cavernous halls, soaring ceilings, and raw, utilitarian aesthetic, the Depot offers an unparalleled environment for large-scale music events. Its industrial bones provide a unique sense of scale and intimacy simultaneously, creating a visceral experience for attendees. The sheer size of the main depot hall can house thousands, yet the architectural features often create pockets of intensity that draw you into the heart of the action. The raw concrete, exposed brickwork, and intricate network of beams contribute to a truly immersive atmosphere, making it a dream canvas for the sensory onslaught that is a Sub Focus set. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an unforgettable sonic journey as Sub Focus takes centre stage at Mayfield Depot. His sets are renowned for their relentless energy, expert curation, and the seamless blend of his own iconic productions with the cutting edge of drum and bass. Audiences can anticipate a setlist brimming with crowd-pleasing anthems that have defined the genre for years. Expect to be transported by the sheer euphoria of tracks like “Rock It,” the gritty intensity of “X-Ray,” and the melodic brilliance of “Timewarp.” These timeless classics are guaranteed to ignite the dancefloor, prompting singalongs and mass declarations of love for the music.

Beyond his signature hits, Sub Focus is known for his ability to showcase brand-new material and unreleased gems, keeping his sets fresh and exciting. He masterfully weaves in tracks from his critically acclaimed albums, Sub Focus and Torus, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of his impressive discography. His performance style is characterized by an impeccable technical skill behind the decks. He is a true craftsman of the DJ art, renowned for his precise beat matching, seamless transitions, and the judicious use of effects that enhance the emotional impact of each track. His sets are not just a collection of songs; they are meticulously crafted narratives that build, ebb, and flow, taking the audience on an exhilarating ride.

The duration of a Sub Focus set at The Warehouse Project is typically generous, offering ample time for him to fully immerse himself and the crowd in the world of drum and bass. Expect a performance that will last well over an hour, often extending to two hours or more, allowing for an in-depth exploration of his sonic universe. During this time, Sub Focus will undoubtedly demonstrate his signature flair for building tension and releasing it in explosive drops that are both technically impressive and physically exhilarating. The synergy between Sub Focus’s masterful DJing and the raw, industrial power of Mayfield Depot is set to create an atmosphere that is nothing short of explosive. This is more than just a DJ set; it’s a communal experience of pure, unadulterated bass music.

FAQs

Q1: Will Sub Focus be playing his classic hits? Absolutely. Sub Focus is celebrated for his extensive back catalogue of drum and bass anthems, and his sets at The Warehouse Project will undoubtedly feature beloved tracks like “Rock It,” “X-Ray,” “Breathe,” and “Timewarp.” He is known for honouring his iconic productions while keeping his sets fresh with new material.

Q2: Can I expect to hear any new music from Sub Focus? Yes, it’s highly probable. Sub Focus is an active producer and often road-tests new material and unreleased tracks during his live sets. This commitment to innovation is part of what keeps him at the forefront of the genre.

Q3: What is Sub Focus’s typical performance style like? Sub Focus is renowned for his high-energy, technically proficient DJ sets. He is a master of seamless transitions, dynamic mixing, and the precise use of effects to enhance the impact of his tracks. His sets are a journey, building momentum and delivering exhilarating drops.

Q4: How long is a typical Sub Focus set at The Warehouse Project? Warehouse Project sets are often substantial. You can expect Sub Focus to play for at least 90 minutes to two hours, giving him ample time to showcase his extensive repertoire and create a truly immersive experience.

Q5: Can I request songs during Sub Focus’s set? While the energy of a Sub Focus set is electrifying, direct song requests are generally not feasible during his performance. His sets are carefully curated to create a specific flow and experience, and the sheer scale of the event makes individual requests impractical. However, rest assured, he has an incredible catalogue of fan favourites that are sure to be included.

Q6: What kind of sound system can I expect at Mayfield Depot for Sub Focus? Mayfield Depot is equipped with world-class sound systems designed to deliver powerful and crystal-clear audio. For a bass-heavy artist like Sub Focus, the sound system will be calibrated to deliver the full impact of his productions, ensuring a visceral and immersive sonic experience.