The Hives

The Hives: Madrid Unleashed at Movistar Arena

Get ready, Madrid! The kings of raw, garage-rock energy are descending upon the Movistar Arena – Palacio de los Deportes for a night that promises to be nothing short of explosive. On Sunday, 2 November 2025, Sweden’s finest, The Hives, will unleash their signature blend of frenetic riffs, swaggering showmanship, and undeniable charisma onto the Spanish capital. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an electrifying immersion into a world where rock ‘n’ roll reigns supreme, delivered by a band who have perfected the art of the live spectacle over decades of relentless touring. Prepare for a sonic assault and a visual feast as Pelle Almqvist and his impeccably dressed bandmates transform the arena into their personal playground.

About The Hives

Born from the vibrant Swedish underground in the late 1990s, The Hives have carved a formidable niche in the global rock landscape. From their early days, characterised by a DIY ethos and a fierce dedication to garage rock revival, they quickly gained notoriety for their raw, unpolished sound and their distinctive aesthetic – think sharp suits, black ties, and an attitude that screams confidence. Their breakthrough came with the release of “Veni Vidi Vicious” in 2000, an album that showcased their ability to craft infectious, high-octane anthems. Hits like “Hate to Say I Told You So,” with its iconic guitar riff and Pelle’s defiant vocals, became instant rock staples, propelling them onto international stages.

Over the years, The Hives have consistently delivered a powerful sonic punch, refining their sound while never losing the primal energy that defines them. Albums such as “Tyrannosaurus Hives” (2004) and “The Black and White Album” (2007) further cemented their reputation, featuring tracks like “Walk Idiot Walk” and “Tick Tick Boom” that are designed to ignite a live crowd. Their music is a potent cocktail of 60s garage rock, punk attitude, and a healthy dose of unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll swagger. They are a band that understands the fundamental power of a great hook, a driving beat, and a frontman who knows how to command attention. Despite their longevity, The Hives show no signs of slowing down, their commitment to delivering exhilarating live performances remaining as strong as ever. They are a testament to the enduring appeal of pure, unadulterated rock music.

Venue Information

The Movistar Arena – Palacio de los Deportes is one of Madrid’s premier indoor arenas, renowned for hosting a diverse array of world-class sporting events and musical performances. Its state-of-the-art facilities and impressive capacity ensure an exceptional experience for both artists and attendees alike. Designed to accommodate large crowds, the venue boasts excellent acoustics and a strategic layout that provides optimal viewing angles from all sections. Whether you’re standing close to the action or seated further back, the atmosphere within the Movistar Arena is always electric. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a high-octane spectacle that is quintessential Hives. Their live shows are legendary for their unwavering intensity and Pelle Almqvist’s magnetic stage presence. He is a frontman in the truest sense of the word, a charismatic ringmaster who orchestrates the chaos with masterful control. Expect him to prowl the stage, engage directly with the audience, and deliver every lyric with a ferocious conviction. The band, a tight-knit unit of musical prowess, will be locked in, delivering blistering guitar solos, thunderous drumming, and a rhythm section that will make you want to move.

The setlist for a Hives gig is a carefully curated journey through their illustrious back catalogue, peppered with fan favourites and guaranteed bangers. You can confidently anticipate hearing anthems like “Hate to Say I Told You So,” its infectious riff likely to ignite a mass singalong. “Walk Idiot Walk” will undoubtedly have the arena pulsing, while the sheer explosive energy of “Tick Tick Boom” is a live show highlight. They have a knack for digging out deeper cuts that delight their devoted fanbase, but rest assured, the hits will be delivered with the full force you expect. The performance style is pure rock ‘n’ roll theatre – dynamic, visual, and utterly engaging. The Hives don’t just play music; they create an event. The show’s duration typically clocks in at around 90 minutes to 2 hours, a tightly packed set of pure adrenaline that leaves you breathless and wanting more.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Hives be playing all of their biggest hits? A1: Absolutely! The Hives are renowned for delivering a setlist packed with their most beloved anthems. You can expect to hear classics like “Hate to Say I Told You So,” “Walk Idiot Walk,” and “Tick Tick Boom,” alongside other fan favourites that have defined their illustrious career.

Q2: What is Pelle Almqvist’s typical stage presence like? A2: Pelle Almqvist is one of rock’s most captivating frontmen. He embodies pure rock ‘n’ roll charisma, known for his energetic stage presence, witty banter, and undeniable swagger. Expect him to be in constant motion, interacting with the crowd and commanding the stage with effortless authority.

Q3: Can I expect The Hives to play any new material? A3: While The Hives are masters of their established hits, they have been known to introduce new material into their live sets, especially when touring new albums. While we can’t guarantee specific new songs, their live shows are always a dynamic mix of the familiar and the potentially fresh.

Q4: Is it likely that The Hives will have any special guest appearances during their Madrid show? A4: While The Hives are a self-contained powerhouse, surprise guest appearances are rare but not entirely unheard of in the world of live music. However, the core focus of their performance will be the electrifying synergy of the band themselves.

Q5: What is the general vibe and atmosphere of a Hives concert? A5: The Hives deliver an atmosphere of pure, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll exhilaration. It’s loud, it’s energetic, and it’s incredibly fun. Expect a lively crowd, a no-holds-barred performance, and a sense of collective euphoria driven by their infectious music and Pelle’s magnetic persona.

Q6: How long does a typical Hives set usually last? A6: A Hives concert typically lasts between 90 minutes and two hours. They pack a lot of energy and music into their performances, ensuring a full and satisfying show for all attendees.