Swim School

Swim School Live at The Adrian Flux Waterfront, Norwich

Sunday, 16 November 2025

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as Swim School, the captivating Scottish indie-pop outfit, descend upon Norwich for a highly anticipated performance at the iconic Adrian Flux Waterfront. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an opportunity to experience a band at the zenith of their creative powers, delivering a set brimming with soaring melodies, introspective lyrics, and an electrifying stage presence that has quickly cemented their reputation as one of the UK’s most compelling live acts. Set against the vibrant backdrop of The Waterfront, a venue synonymous with launching burgeoning talent, this promises to be a night that resonates with fans old and new, a testament to Swim School’s growing influence and the undeniable magic of live music.

About Swim School

Hailing from the vibrant musical landscape of Edinburgh, Swim School has rapidly emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the UK’s indie-pop scene. Formed by the dynamic duo of Alice Johnson (vocals, guitar) and Liam MacLeod (bass, synths), later joined by drummer Noah Campbell, the band burst onto the scene with a sound that is both immediately accessible and refreshingly original. Their music is characterized by a masterful blend of shimmering guitar riffs, infectious synth hooks, and Johnson’s evocative vocals, which possess a captivating ability to convey raw emotion and poignant storytelling.

Their debut single, “Down the Line,” released in 2020, was an immediate statement of intent, showcasing their knack for crafting expansive, anthemic tracks that stir the soul. This was swiftly followed by a string of critically acclaimed EPs, including “Swimsational” and “External Conditions,” which further honed their distinctive sonic identity. Tracks like the wistful yet driving “They Swim” and the introspective ballad “Let You Out” quickly garnered significant airplay on BBC Radio 1 and support from influential music publications.

Swim School’s songwriting often delves into themes of vulnerability, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships, delivered with an honesty that strikes a chord with a broad audience. Their live performances have become legendary for their potent energy and the palpable connection they forge with their listeners. Having honed their craft through relentless touring across the UK and Europe, supporting established acts and headlining their own sold-out shows, Swim School are now poised to take their music to even greater heights. Their debut album, anticipated in the near future, is set to solidify their position as purveyors of intelligent, emotionally resonant indie-pop.

Venue Information

The Adrian Flux Waterfront, nestled in the heart of Norwich, is a celebrated music venue with a rich history of hosting an eclectic array of established and emerging artists. Renowned for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, it provides the perfect setting for an immersive live music experience. The venue boasts a versatile space that caters to a diverse range of performances, ensuring every show feels special and engaging. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an electrifying set that showcases the full spectrum of Swim School’s musical prowess. The band is renowned for their dynamic and captivating live performances, weaving together their most beloved hits with exciting new material. Expect to be swept away by the anthemic energy of tracks like “Down the Line” and “They Swim,” where soaring guitars and infectious synth melodies create an exhilarating sonic landscape. You’ll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the more introspective moments of their discography, with heartfelt renditions of songs such as “Let You Out” that highlight Alice Johnson’s poignant lyrical depth and captivating vocal delivery.

Swim School’s performance style is a masterclass in controlled intensity. They move seamlessly between moments of delicate vulnerability and explosive, crowd-pleasing crescendos. The interplay between Johnson’s expressive vocals and the intricate instrumentation provided by MacLeod and Campbell creates a rich and textured sound that is both powerful and nuanced. Audience participation is almost guaranteed, as the band has a remarkable ability to energize a room and foster a collective sense of joy and connection. Their sets are typically around 75-90 minutes in length, offering a substantial and deeply satisfying musical journey. Be ready for a show that is not only sonically impressive but also emotionally resonant, leaving you with a lasting impression and a desire for more.

FAQs

Q1: Will Swim School be playing new material at the Norwich show? A: While Swim School are known for delivering all their fan favourites, it is highly likely that they will be showcasing new songs as they continue to develop their sound and prepare for future releases. Their live shows are often the first place audiences get a taste of what’s to come.

Q2: How would you describe Swim School’s typical stage presence? A: Swim School are known for a stage presence that is both energetic and emotionally engaging. Alice Johnson commands the stage with her dynamic vocal performance and captivating stage presence, while the band as a whole creates a palpable sense of connection with the audience through their tight musicianship and shared passion for their music.

Q3: What kind of atmosphere can I expect at a Swim School gig? A: You can expect a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. Swim School’s music appeals to a wide range of music lovers, and their live shows tend to foster a sense of community and shared enjoyment. It’s a place where you can sing along, dance, and get lost in the music.

Q4: Are there any specific songs that are always a highlight of their live sets? A: Tracks like “Down the Line” and “They Swim” are consistently a highlight due to their anthemic nature and singalong choruses. However, their more introspective pieces, such as “Let You Out,” often create powerful, unifying moments with the audience. It’s always a joy to hear how they reinterpret these fan favourites live.

Q5: Is it likely that Swim School will have merchandise available for purchase at the venue? A: Yes, it is standard practice for bands like Swim School to have a range of merchandise available at their live shows. This typically includes t-shirts, vinyl records, CDs, and other unique items that allow fans to take a piece of the band home with them.

Q6: How long is a typical Swim School set? A: A typical Swim School set lasts approximately 75 to 90 minutes. This provides ample time for them to perform a well-rounded selection of their discography, including popular singles, fan-favourite album tracks, and potentially some new material.