The Kooks

The Kooks Live at Zenith, München

Get ready for an unforgettable night of infectious indie-rock as The Kooks descend upon München’s iconic Zenith - die Kulturhalle on Thursday, 19 February 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a chance to experience one of Britain’s most beloved indie bands in their element, delivering a powerhouse performance that is sure to ignite the senses. Known for their electrifying stage presence and a back catalogue brimming with singalong anthems, The Kooks promise an evening of pure musical exhilaration. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to their world, prepare for a concert that celebrates the enduring spirit of British indie music.

About The Kooks

Hailing from Brighton, The Kooks burst onto the music scene in the mid-2000s, quickly establishing themselves as frontrunners of the indie revival with their distinctive blend of catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and effortlessly cool swagger. Formed in 2002, the band comprises Luke Pritchard (vocals, guitar), Hugh Harris (lead guitar), and Alexis Nuñez (drums), with their current live setup often augmented by additional musicians. Their debut album, Inside In/Inside Out (2006), was an immediate critical and commercial success, propelled by chart-topping singles like “Naive,” “She Moves in Her Own Way,” and “Sofa Song.” This early success cemented their reputation for crafting infectious, guitar-driven tracks that resonated with a global audience.

The Kooks’ musical evolution has seen them experiment with different sounds while always retaining their core identity. Their sophomore effort, Konk (2008), continued their chart dominance and featured fan favourites such as “Always Where I Need to Be” and “Shine On.” Over the years, they have consistently delivered captivating albums, including Junk of the Heart (2011), Listen (2014), and Let’s Go Sunshine (2018), each showcasing their knack for songwriting and their ability to adapt their sound without losing their distinctive Kooks flavour. Their live performances are renowned for their energy and the palpable connection they forge with their audience, turning every venue into a vibrant celebration of their extensive and beloved discography. With a career spanning over two decades, The Kooks remain a vital force in contemporary music, their anthems continuing to soundtrack the lives of fans old and new.

Venue Information

The Zenith - die Kulturhalle in München is a renowned multipurpose venue with a rich history of hosting major international artists and cultural events. Originally an aircraft hangar, its industrial architecture has been beautifully preserved, offering a unique and atmospheric setting for live music. The spacious main hall can accommodate large crowds, providing an intimate yet grand experience for concert-goers. Its excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems ensure that every performance is delivered with the highest quality. The venue is easily accessible by public transport, making it a convenient destination for music lovers across the city and beyond. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a high-octane performance from The Kooks that promises to be a journey through their most cherished hits and captivating newer material. The band’s live shows are legendary for their unbridled energy and Luke Pritchard’s magnetic stage presence. Expect a setlist that seamlessly weaves together the indie-pop gems that propelled them to stardom with the more mature and nuanced tracks from their recent albums. You can be sure to hear crowd-pleasing anthems like “Naive,” “She Moves in Her Own Way,” and “Bad Habits” – songs that have become synonymous with singalongs and ecstatic energy.

Beyond the hits, The Kooks are known for their ability to inject new life into their beloved tracks, often extending instrumental sections for improvisation and delivering passionate vocal performances that capture the raw emotion of their songwriting. Their setlists are carefully curated to build momentum, starting with a bang and culminating in a series of unforgettable encores. The Kooks’ performance style is characterised by its infectious enthusiasm, tight musicianship, and a genuine sense of joy that is palpable from the stage. They are not a band that simply goes through the motions; they immerse themselves in the music and connect with every person in the audience.

The Kooks’ live sets typically span approximately 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring a comprehensive and satisfying musical experience. The evening will undoubtedly be filled with moments of collective euphoria, from the soaring choruses that demand to be shouted back at the stage to the more introspective moments that showcase their lyrical depth. Prepare for a visual spectacle as well, with dynamic lighting designs that complement the mood and energy of each song. This is more than just a concert; it’s an affirmation of the power of live music and the enduring appeal of a band that continues to deliver exceptional performances year after year.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Kooks be playing songs from their debut album, Inside In/Inside Out? Absolutely! The Kooks consistently treat their fans to a generous selection of tracks from their seminal debut album, Inside In/Inside Out. You can definitely expect to hear beloved anthems like “Naive” and “She Moves in Her Own Way” which are staples of their live set and always met with an incredible crowd reaction. They understand the significance of this album to their fans and are renowned for performing these songs with the same passion and energy as they did when they were first released.

Q2: What is The Kooks’ typical stage presence like? The Kooks are celebrated for their incredibly dynamic and engaging stage presence. Frontman Luke Pritchard is a charismatic performer, known for his energetic movements, passionate vocals, and his ability to connect with the audience on a deeply personal level. The band as a whole exudes a cool, effortless swagger, backed by tight musicianship and a genuine love for what they do. Their performances are often described as electrifying, filled with an infectious enthusiasm that quickly spreads throughout the crowd, creating a truly communal atmosphere.

Q3: Will The Kooks be performing any of their newer material at the Zenith? Yes, The Kooks are a band that continues to evolve and create new music. While they always honour their extensive back catalogue, their live sets typically incorporate a selection of songs from their more recent albums. This allows fans to experience the band’s current musical direction and appreciate their songwriting growth. Expect a balanced setlist that showcases their enduring hits alongside compelling tracks from their latest releases, offering a comprehensive Kooks experience.

Q4: How long is a typical Kooks concert? A typical Kooks concert usually lasts between 90 minutes and two hours. This duration allows them to showcase a substantial portion of their impressive discography, delivering a full and satisfying live music experience for their fans. They are known for packing their sets with hits and fan favourites, ensuring a memorable evening from start to finish.

Q5: Are there any specific songs that are guaranteed to be in the setlist? While setlists can vary slightly from night to night, there are certain Kooks anthems that are almost always guaranteed to feature in their shows. These include perennial crowd-pleasers like “Naive,” “She Moves in Her Own Way,” “Sofa Song,” “Always Where I Need to Be,” and “Ocean.” These songs have become synonymous with The Kooks’ live performances and are essential for any fan looking to sing along to their most iconic tracks.

Q6: Is The Kooks’ live show suitable for long-time fans and newcomers alike? Absolutely! The Kooks’ live shows are incredibly well-balanced and cater to both long-time devotees and those discovering their music for the first time. Their performance of classic hits ensures that lifelong fans will be treated to the songs they love, while the band’s inherent energy, charisma, and the universal appeal of their indie-rock sound make for an instantly enjoyable experience for newcomers. They have a knack for creating an atmosphere that is inclusive and exciting for everyone in attendance, making it a perfect introduction to their captivating world.