The Horrors

The Horrors Live at New Century Hall, Manchester

Prepare for an electrifying night as the iconic The Horrors descend upon the historic New Century Hall in Manchester on Friday, 28 November 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an invitation to witness a band at the zenith of their artistic evolution, a sonic alchemist outfit that consistently pushes boundaries and captivates with their genre-defying soundscapes. Returning to the North West after a highly anticipated hiatus, this performance promises an immersive journey through their acclaimed discography, a testament to their enduring influence and electrifying live prowess. New Century Hall, with its rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere, provides the perfect crucible for The Horrors to unleash their signature blend of atmospheric intensity and raw energy, creating a truly unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

About The Horrors

Emerging from the UK underground in the mid-2000s, The Horrors quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, initially drawing attention for their striking visual aesthetic and a raw, garage-rock sound. Their debut album, “Strange House” (2007), was a visceral explosion of punk-infused energy and gothic melodrama, featuring singles like the propulsive “Sheena Is a Parasite” and the snarling “Death at the Chapel.” However, true to their name and artistic spirit, the band refused to be pigeonholed. Subsequent releases saw a remarkable and courageous evolution. “Primary Colours” (2009), produced by Geoff Barrow of Portishead, marked a significant departure, embracing Krautrock rhythms, synthesiser textures, and a more expansive, psychedelic palette. This album was a critical turning point, lauded for its maturity and sonic ambition, and cemented their reputation as innovators rather than mere trend-followers.

Their journey continued with “Skying” (2011), a shimmering masterpiece of dream-pop and shoegaze, featuring the anthemic “Still Life” and the ethereal “I Can See Through You.” This was followed by the darker, more introspective “Luminous” (2014), which delved into electronic textures and hypnotic grooves, showcasing singles like the driving “Chasing Shadows” and the expansive “Sea Within.” Most recently, “V” (2017) saw them further refine their sound, blending their electronic leanings with potent songwriting and powerful vocal performances, yielding tracks like the infectious “Machine” and the soaring “Something to Remember.” Throughout their career, The Horrors have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to artistic growth, consistently challenging themselves and their audience, delivering live performances that are as visually arresting as they are sonically immersive. Their live shows are not simply recitations of studio recordings but dynamic, evolving entities, filled with an undeniable power that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Venue Information

New Century Hall stands as a vibrant cultural hub within Manchester, a venue steeped in history yet buzzing with contemporary energy. Originally opened in 1973 as a community arts centre and performance space, its stunning mid-century modern architecture and spacious main hall provide an unparalleled setting for live music. Known for its excellent acoustics and intimate yet grand atmosphere, it’s a place where legendary artists have graced the stage and where new musical movements are born. The venue offers a unique backdrop that perfectly complements the artistic intensity of a band like The Horrors, ensuring an immersive and memorable concert experience for every attendee. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a night where the sonic landscape shifts and evolves, a testament to The Horrors’ unparalleled ability to craft deeply immersive live experiences. Their setlists are known to be thoughtfully curated journeys, weaving seamlessly through their diverse discography. Expect to be transported by the shimmering, expansive soundscapes of “Skying” and “Luminous,” with fan favourites like the hypnotic “Still Life” and the driving “Chasing Shadows” likely to ignite the crowd. The pulsating rhythms and psychedelic explorations of “Primary Colours” will undoubtedly echo through New Century Hall, bringing tracks like the monumental “Scarlet Fields” to life with a visceral force.

From the early, raw energy of “Strange House” to the sophisticated electronic textures of “V,” The Horrors have a knack for reinventing their classics for the live arena, breathing new life into beloved anthems. You might hear the electrifying drive of “Sheena Is a Parasite” reimagined with a modern edge, or the anthemic swell of “Machine” delivered with even greater impact. Beyond the specific songs, The Horrors’ performance style is a captivating spectacle. Their stage presence is commanding yet artful, with the band members exuding a focused intensity. Lead singer Faris Badwan’s distinctive vocals soar and caress, drawing you into the lyrical narratives and atmospheric depths. The interplay between the musicians is palpable, creating a rich tapestry of sound that envelops the audience. Expect a performance that is not just heard but felt – a dynamic ebb and flow of energy, from moments of delicate introspection to explosive crescendos that will leave you breathless. While the exact duration can vary, a typical headline set from The Horrors is a substantial and rewarding affair, usually spanning around 90 minutes to 2 hours, allowing ample time for them to explore the breadth and depth of their remarkable catalogue and leave an indelible mark on the Manchester music scene.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Horrors play songs from all of their albums? A1: The Horrors are renowned for their evolving sound and typically craft their setlists to represent their artistic journey. While they often feature highlights from their more recent, critically acclaimed albums like “Skying,” “Luminous,” and “V,” they are also known to revisit beloved tracks from their earlier work, ensuring a comprehensive and exciting representation of their discography. Fans can anticipate a thoughtful selection that showcases their diverse musical evolution.

Q2: Can I expect a visually engaging performance from The Horrors? A2: Absolutely. The Horrors have always placed significant importance on their visual presentation, complementing their sonic explorations with a distinctive aesthetic. Their live shows are known to be visually striking, often incorporating atmospheric lighting and a carefully curated stage design that enhances the overall immersive experience. Prepare for a performance that engages all the senses.

Q3: What is the typical atmosphere of a live The Horrors show? A3: The atmosphere at a The Horrors concert is typically one of intense engagement and shared sonic exploration. Their music has a powerful ability to captivate an audience, ranging from moments of introspective hypnosis to explosive bursts of energy. Expect a crowd that is deeply invested in the music, responding to the band’s dynamic shifts and celebrating their unique artistry.

Q4: How long is a typical The Horrors set? A4: While set lengths can vary, a headline performance by The Horrors usually spans approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours. This allows them sufficient time to delve into their extensive catalogue, weaving together a compelling narrative through their song selection and delivering a full, satisfying experience for their fans.

Q5: Has The Horrors performed in Manchester before? A5: Yes, The Horrors have a history of performing in Manchester, a city that has always shown strong support for their innovative sound. Their return to New Century Hall is a highly anticipated event for fans in the North West, building on previous memorable performances within the city.

Q6: What is the best way to get tickets for The Horrors at New Century Hall? A6: Tickets for this highly anticipated event are expected to be in high demand. It is recommended to regularly check the official ticketing partners and the New Century Hall website for the most up-to-date information on when tickets will go on sale and where to purchase them securely. Signing up for mailing lists from your preferred ticket vendors or the venue itself can also provide early alerts.