Sudan Archives

Sudan Archives Live at Manchester Academy 2

About the Event

Prepare for an electrifying night as the singular talent of Sudan Archives descends upon Manchester Academy 2 on Thursday, 4 December 2025. This is more than just a gig; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a truly unique sonic universe. Sudan Archives, a moniker for the brilliant Brittney Denise Parks, is renowned for her genre-bending artistry, weaving together elements of R&B, hip-hop, electronic, and traditional African music into a tapestry that is both viscerally exciting and deeply introspective. Her live performances are legendary for their raw energy, captivating stage presence, and her uncanny ability to command an audience with just her voice and her violin. This promises to be an unforgettable evening, a chance to witness a contemporary musical innovator at the height of her powers in the intimate and iconic setting of Manchester Academy 2. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of Sudan Archives live.

About Sudan Archives

Sudan Archives is the artistic vessel for Brittney Denise Parks, an American musician, singer, songwriter, and producer who has rapidly carved out a distinct and influential niche in the contemporary music landscape. Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, Parks began her musical journey at a young age, self-taught on the violin, an instrument that would become a signature element of her sound. Her early explorations were deeply influenced by a fascination with traditional African music, a passion that continues to permeate her work.

Adopting the name Sudan Archives, Parks began to release music that defied easy categorization. Her breakthrough came with the release of her debut EP, Sudan Archives, in 2017. This collection showcased her distinctive vocal stylings – ethereal, soulful, and often experimental – layered over intricate electronic beats and punctuated by her signature violin melodies. The EP garnered critical acclaim, with tracks like “Fruits” and “Home Maker” hinting at the expansive sonic palette she would go on to explore.

Her debut album, Athena, released in 2019, further solidified her artistic vision. The album delved deeper into themes of identity, spirituality, and resilience, set against a backdrop of global rhythms and futuristic R&B. Notable hits from this period include the infectious “Confessions”, with its driving beat and soaring chorus, and the more introspective “Black Vivaldi”, which masterfully blends classical violin arrangements with hip-hop sensibilities.

In 2022, Sudan Archives released her sophomore album, Natural Brown Prom Queen, a critically lauded project that explored themes of Black womanhood, self-love, and the complexities of navigating personal and societal expectations. The album was praised for its adventurous production, lyrical depth, and Parks’ continued evolution as an artist. Tracks such as “Self Love Blue” and “Ciara” demonstrate her growing confidence and her ability to craft both anthemic singles and deeply personal narratives. Her unique blend of the organic and the electronic, the ancient and the futuristic, has earned her comparisons to artists as diverse as FKA twigs, Björk, and Erykah Badu, yet Sudan Archives remains resolutely herself, a singular force in modern music.

Venue Information

Manchester Academy 2 is a renowned live music venue situated within the heart of Manchester, known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, making it a favourite for artists and fans alike. It provides a fantastic setting to experience the dynamic performances of artists like Sudan Archives. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

A live performance by Sudan Archives is a sensory experience unlike any other. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves through her critically acclaimed discography, undoubtedly featuring fan favourites and compelling new material. Audiences can anticipate being captivated by the infectious rhythms and soaring melodies of tracks such as “Confessions”, the raw emotional power of “Self Love Blue”, and the intricate violin work that underpins her unique sound. Prepare for the dynamic interplay between her soulful, often multi-layered vocals and the sophisticated, beat-driven production that defines her music.

Sudan Archives’ performance style is characterized by an exhilarating blend of vulnerability and fierce energy. She is a captivating frontwoman, commanding the stage with an undeniable charisma that draws the audience into her world. Her use of the violin is not merely decorative; it’s an integral part of her musical narrative, often employed with virtuosic flair to add texture, emotion, and a distinct flavour to her tracks. Expect moments of intense introspection, punctuated by bursts of vibrant, danceable energy. The visual presentation of her shows is often as engaging as the music itself, with lighting and staging designed to complement the otherworldly and multifaceted nature of her artistry.

While the precise duration can vary, a typical Sudan Archives headline set is substantial, offering ample opportunity to fully immerse yourself in her sonic universe. You can generally expect a performance lasting between 75 and 90 minutes, allowing for a well-rounded journey through her diverse catalogue, often including a dynamic encore. The atmosphere within Manchester Academy 2 will undoubtedly amplify the communal experience, fostering a shared connection between the artist and the audience as they are swept away by the unique and potent magic of Sudan Archives live.

FAQs

Q1: Will Sudan Archives be performing songs from her latest album, Natural Brown Prom Queen? Yes, absolutely. Sudan Archives consistently incorporates material from her most recent work into her live sets. You can expect to hear highlights from Natural Brown Prom Queen, such as “Self Love Blue,” “Ciara,” and “Home Maker,” which are fan favourites and showcase the evolution of her sound.

Q2: Is it possible to hear Sudan Archives play her violin live? Indeed. The violin is a cornerstone of Sudan Archives’ musical identity. She is a proficient violinist and frequently features her instrument prominently in her live performances, often weaving intricate melodies and solos that are central to her captivating stage presence.

Q3: What is Sudan Archives’ typical performance style like? Sudan Archives is known for her dynamic and energetic live performances. She possesses a captivating stage presence, blending soulful vocal delivery with moments of raw power. Her shows are often described as a unique fusion of dance, vocal improvisation, and virtuosic instrumental skill, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience for the audience.

Q4: Can I expect any audience interaction during the show? Sudan Archives has a remarkable ability to connect with her audience. While the focus is on her musical performance, she often engages with the crowd through her expressive presence and sometimes through direct vocal ad-libs or acknowledgements, fostering a sense of shared experience and intimacy.

Q5: Will there be a support act for Sudan Archives? Details regarding support acts are typically announced closer to the event date. Please check the official ticketing pages or Manchester Academy 2’s website for the most up-to-date information on any opening performers.

Q6: How long is a typical Sudan Archives set? A typical headline set for Sudan Archives usually lasts between 75 and 90 minutes. This duration allows her to showcase a comprehensive range of her music, from her earlier EPs and debut album to her latest critically acclaimed releases, often concluding with an energetic encore.