Swim School

Swim School Live at The Garage, London

Get ready for an unforgettable night of soaring indie-pop as Swim School descends upon The Garage in London this Thursday, 20th November 2025. This is more than just a gig; it’s an immersion into the vibrant, emotionally resonant soundscapes that have captivated audiences worldwide. Following a period of intense creative output and growing acclaim, Swim School are poised to deliver a performance that is both intimate and electrifying, a testament to their evolution as a band and their undeniable connection with their fans. Prepare to be swept away by their signature blend of ethereal vocals, driving guitar riffs, and poignant lyricism, all within the hallowed walls of one of London’s most cherished live music venues.

About Swim School

Emerging from the fertile music scene of Edinburgh, Swim School have rapidly carved out a distinctive niche for themselves within the UK’s indie landscape. Comprised of lead vocalist and guitarist Alice Johnson, bassist Finn Campbell, and drummer Liam Doherty, the trio’s sonic identity is built on a foundation of shimmering guitar melodies, a propulsive rhythm section, and Johnson’s achingly beautiful, often introspective vocals. Their music possesses an innate ability to oscillate between melancholic introspection and euphoric catharsis, creating a deeply engaging and relatable listening experience.

Their early singles, such as the atmospheric and haunting “Fly Easy” and the more upbeat, anthemic “Maybe Now,” quickly garnered attention, showcasing their knack for crafting emotionally resonant tunes that stick with you long after the final chord fades. These early releases hinted at a band unafraid to explore the complexities of human emotion, drawing comparisons to contemporaries like The 1975 and Wolf Alice, yet always retaining their unique sonic signature.

The release of their debut EP, “Outside,” cemented their reputation, featuring tracks that further explored themes of love, loss, and self-discovery with a raw honesty that resonated with a growing fanbase. Tracks like “Hear Me” and “Let You Go” became indie radio staples, their infectious hooks and powerful choruses proving a formidable combination. Their live performances quickly became known for their energy and the palpable connection they forge with their audience, transforming intimate venues into spaces of shared emotional release. Swim School’s journey is one of meticulous sonic development and a steadfast commitment to authentic storytelling, making their upcoming performance at The Garage a highly anticipated event for any discerning music lover.

Venue Information

The Garage, nestled in the heart of Islington, is a legendary London venue with a rich history of hosting some of the most exciting emerging and established artists in music. Known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, The Garage provides the perfect setting for Swim School’s captivating live show. With its standing-room-only main room and a smaller, more intimate upstairs bar, the venue offers a fantastic experience for music enthusiasts looking to get up close and personal with their favourite acts. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that is both emotionally charged and exhilarating. Swim School are renowned for their dynamic live shows, where Alice Johnson’s captivating vocal delivery takes centre stage, her voice soaring over intricate guitar lines and a driving rhythm section. You can expect a setlist that expertly blends fan favourites from their EPs and singles with potential new material, offering a comprehensive showcase of their artistic journey.

Expect to hear the anthemic singalongs that have become synonymous with their name. Tracks like “Hear Me,” with its building intensity and cathartic release, are sure to ignite the crowd, encouraging everyone to join in. The raw vulnerability of songs like “Let You Go” will undoubtedly create moments of quiet contemplation, allowing the intimacy of The Garage to truly shine. The band’s performance style is characterised by an infectious energy and a genuine connection with their audience. They are not a band that simply plays their songs; they inhabit them, pouring every ounce of emotion into each note. Liam Doherty’s drumming is precise and powerful, providing the solid backbone for Finn Campbell’s intricate basslines, which weave seamlessly with Johnson’s mesmerising guitar work. The interplay between the three musicians is a joy to witness, a testament to their years of collaboration and shared musical vision.

The set is expected to last approximately 75-90 minutes, including a possible encore, giving you ample time to be fully immersed in Swim School’s world. The lighting design will likely complement the mood of each song, shifting from soft, atmospheric hues during more introspective moments to vibrant, energetic washes during their more anthemic tracks. This attention to detail ensures that the visual aspect of the performance is as compelling as the sonic one. Get ready for a night where the music takes centre stage, and the collective energy of the band and the audience creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

FAQs

Q1: Will Swim School be playing songs from their upcoming album? While we can’t confirm the exact setlist, it’s highly probable that Swim School will be previewing some new material from their anticipated upcoming album during their London show. Bands often use these performances as a testing ground for new songs, so you might be among the first to hear their latest creations.

Q2: What is Swim School’s typical performance style like? Swim School are known for their energetic and emotionally engaging live performances. Expect a dynamic set driven by Alice Johnson’s powerful vocals and intricate guitar work, supported by a tight and driving rhythm section. They create a captivating atmosphere that encourages both collective euphoria and intimate moments of reflection.

Q3: How long does a typical Swim School set last? A standard Swim School set typically runs for around 75 to 90 minutes. This duration allows them to showcase a good range of their discography, from their earlier EPs to their more recent work, without rushing the experience.

Q4: Are Swim School known for any particular hit songs that are guaranteed to be played? Absolutely. Their most popular tracks, such as “Hear Me” and “Let You Go,” are almost always featured in their live sets due to their widespread appeal and ability to get the crowd involved. It’s highly likely these fan-favourites will be on the setlist for their London performance.

Q5: Is there any interaction between the band and the audience during their sets? Yes, Swim School are known for fostering a connection with their audience. Alice Johnson often engages with the crowd between songs, sharing anecdotes or simply expressing her gratitude for their support. This interaction adds to the intimate and personal feel of their shows.

Q6: Will there be merchandise available at the venue? It is highly likely that Swim School will have official merchandise available for purchase at The Garage. This typically includes items like T-shirts, posters, and potentially physical copies of their music. It’s always a good idea to bring some extra cash or check if the venue accepts card payments for merchandise.