The Fratellis

The Fratellis Live at Great Hall, Cardiff University Student Union – Friday, 6 February 2026

Get ready, Cardiff! The electrifying energy and unmistakable swagger of Scottish rock titans, The Fratellis, are set to descend upon the hallowed halls of the Great Hall at Cardiff University Student Union on Friday, 6 February 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a chance to witness a band at the peak of their powers, delivering a blistering set that’s guaranteed to have you singing along to every anthemic chorus and bouncing to every infectious riff. Prepare for a night of pure, unadulterated rock and roll revelry as Jon Fratelli and his band of merrymakers bring their signature blend of high-octane anthems and raw, exhilarating performance to the Welsh capital.

About The Fratellis

Bursting onto the scene in the mid-2000s, The Fratellis carved out a unique space in the British music landscape with their infectious blend of indie rock, punk energy, and a healthy dose of glam rock attitude. Hailing from Glasgow, the band, fronted by the distinctive vocals and songwriting prowess of Jon Fratelli, quickly captured the attention of critics and fans alike with their debut album, Costello Music, released in 2006. This seminal record spawned a string of enduring hits that have become ingrained in the fabric of modern British indie music.

Their breakout single, “Chelsea Dagger,” became an instant classic, its catchy, chant-along chorus and relentless energy making it a staple at sporting events and indie disco playlists worldwide. Alongside this global phenomenon, the album also gifted us “Henrietta,” another fan favourite showcasing their knack for infectious melodies and driving rhythms, and the more introspective yet equally captivating “Whistle for the Choir.” The Fratellis proved they weren’t a one-album wonder with their follow-up, Here We Stand (2008), which continued their trajectory with tracks like “MistressMab” and “Smashed Up on the Road,” demonstrating a continued evolution in their sound while retaining their core identity.

Following a hiatus, the band made a triumphant return, proving their enduring appeal and commitment to delivering exceptional live performances. Albums like We Need Fratelli (2011) and Eyes (2014) saw them explore new sonic territories, from gritty, blues-infused rock to more expansive, atmospheric sounds, all while maintaining their signature Lyrical wit and musical urgency. Their most recent releases, including In Your Own Sweet Time (2021), have seen them embrace a mature yet still incredibly potent rock sound, further cementing their status as one of the UK’s most beloved and enduring rock acts. With a reputation for electrifying live shows and a back catalogue brimming with timeless anthems, The Fratellis continue to be a force to be reckoned with on the live music circuit.

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. Located centrally within the university campus, it provides an accessible and vibrant setting for concerts. Its capacity and well-equipped stage are perfectly suited to accommodate the energetic performances that The Fratellis are known for, promising an intimate yet exhilarating experience for all attendees. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When The Fratellis take to the stage at the Great Hall, you can brace yourself for an evening of pure, unadulterated rock and roll exhilaration. Their live performances are legendary, characterised by an irrepressible energy that fills the room and an infectious sense of joy that transcends the stage. Jon Fratelli remains a captivating frontman, commanding attention with his distinctive vocal delivery and effortless charisma. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves together their most beloved anthems with newer material, ensuring a journey through their impressive discography that appeals to long-time fans and newcomers alike.

The night will undoubtedly be punctuated by the roar of the crowd as they belt out classics like “Chelsea Dagger.” Prepare to be swept up in the collective euphoria as that iconic riff kicks in, followed by the irresistible urge to sing along to every single word. Other guaranteed crowd-pleasers will likely include the anthemic “Henrietta,” the rousing “Whistle for the Choir,” and the gritty intensity of “MistressMab.” The band has a knack for creating a communal atmosphere; the Great Hall will transform into a sea of bouncing heads and raised hands as they unleash tracks like “Creeping Up the Backstairs” and “Flathead.”

Beyond the established hits, The Fratellis are also adept at showcasing the strength of their more recent work. Tracks from their latest albums often receive a powerful live reworking, proving that their songwriting and performance capabilities remain as potent as ever. You can anticipate a dynamic set that moves with a relentless pace, driven by the tight musicianship of the band. Expect searing guitar solos, pounding drum beats, and a rhythm section that provides a rock-solid foundation for their energetic delivery. The performance style is raw, authentic, and infused with a genuine passion for music, delivered with a no-frills, no-nonsense approach that has become their hallmark. The show’s duration is typically around 90 minutes, giving ample time for a substantial set of hits and fan favourites, leaving you buzzing long after the final chord rings out.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Fratellis play “Chelsea Dagger” at the Cardiff show? A1: Absolutely! “Chelsea Dagger” is arguably their most famous song and a guaranteed highlight of any Fratellis live set. You can expect the entire venue to erupt when this classic anthem is unleashed.

Q2: What is the typical setlist like for a Fratellis concert in recent years? A2: The Fratellis are known for delivering a crowd-pleasing mix. Their setlists usually feature a strong selection of their biggest hits from albums like Costello Music and Here We Stand, such as “Chelsea Dagger,” “Henrietta,” and “Whistle for the Choir.” They also incorporate fan favourites from their later albums and often showcase some of their newer material, demonstrating the breadth of their musical evolution.

Q3: Is Jon Fratelli still the lead singer and main songwriter? A3: Yes, Jon Fratelli remains the charismatic frontman and primary songwriter for The Fratellis. His distinctive vocals and songwriting style are central to the band’s identity and continue to drive their sound.

Q4: Can I expect any surprise covers or collaborations from The Fratellis? A4: While The Fratellis are primarily known for their own material, they have occasionally surprised audiences with covers or special guest appearances in the past. However, the core of their shows is always dedicated to their impressive back catalogue, so while a surprise is always possible, it’s best to expect a set packed with their own signature anthems.

Q5: Are The Fratellis known for their energetic live performances? A5: Yes, incredibly so! The Fratellis have built a formidable reputation for their high-octane, energetic, and thoroughly entertaining live shows. They are a band that thrives on stage, delivering a performance that is both powerful and joyous, making them a must-see live act.

Q6: Will The Fratellis be touring to promote any new music around the February 2026 date? A6: While specific new music releases for early 2026 have not yet been announced, The Fratellis consistently tour and often use their live shows to debut new material or celebrate existing work. Fans can anticipate a set that reflects their current musical direction, whether that includes brand new songs or a re-energised take on their beloved classics.