The Kooks

The Kooks Live at La Riviera, Madrid

Get ready for a dose of infectious indie-rock as The Kooks return to the Spanish capital! On Wednesday, 4th March 2026, the beloved British quartet will grace the legendary La Riviera stage in Madrid, promising an unforgettable night of anthemic singalongs and electrifying energy. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a chance to experience a band that has soundtracked a generation, delivering their timeless hits and new material to a passionate Madrid audience. Prepare to be swept away by the raw talent and undeniable charm that have defined The Kooks’ enduring appeal.

About The Kooks

Formed in Brighton in 2002, The Kooks rapidly emerged as one of the leading lights of the early 2000s indie-rock explosion. Their debut album, Inside In/Inside Out (2006), achieved multi-platinum status and propelled them into the mainstream with a string of instant classics. The album, a vibrant tapestry of catchy melodies and observational lyrics, captured the zeitgeist and cemented their reputation for crafting accessible yet authentic indie anthems. Tracks like “Naive,” with its instantly recognisable guitar riff and soaring chorus, and the more introspective “She Moves in Her Own Way” became fixtures on radio playlists and festival stages worldwide.

Following their monumental success, The Kooks continued to evolve their sound, exploring new sonic territories while retaining their core identity. Konk (2008) saw them experiment with more ambitious arrangements and a slightly edgier edge, producing fan favourites such as “Always Where I Need to Be” and the propulsive “Mr. Maker.” Subsequent releases like Junk of the Heart (2011) and Listen (2014) demonstrated their songwriting prowess and willingness to push creative boundaries. Listen, in particular, marked a significant shift, incorporating funk and soul influences and showcasing Luke Pritchard’s maturing vocal delivery. Throughout their career, The Kooks have maintained a reputation for exhilarating live performances, driven by the charismatic stage presence of frontman Luke Pritchard and the tight musicianship of the band. They have consistently toured the globe, building a dedicated fanbase through their energetic sets and unwavering commitment to their craft. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to blend introspective lyricism with universally relatable themes, all delivered with a youthful exuberance that continues to resonate.

Venue Information

La Riviera stands as one of Madrid’s most iconic and cherished live music venues. With its rich history and intimate atmosphere, it has played host to countless legendary artists, providing an unparalleled setting for unforgettable musical experiences. Its strategic location within the city makes it easily accessible, and its reputation for excellent sound quality ensures that every note resonates with clarity and power. Whether you’re a seasoned concert-goer or a first-time visitor, La Riviera promises a night of pure musical immersion. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a vibrant and energetic performance that showcases the very best of The Kooks’ extensive discography. You can expect a setlist that masterfully blends their beloved early hits with more recent material, creating a journey through their evolution as a band. Iconic anthems like “Naive,” “She Moves in Her Own Way,” and “Always Where I Need to Be” are guaranteed crowd-pleasers, igniting a collective singalong that will echo through La Riviera. Interspersed with these timeless tracks will be selections from their later albums, demonstrating their continued musical growth and songwriting maturity. Expect to hear tracks that explore a diverse range of sonic textures, from the infectious energy of “Around Town” to the more poignant reflections found in songs from Listen.

The Kooks are renowned for their electrifying stage presence, and this Madrid show will be no exception. Frontman Luke Pritchard is a captivating performer, exuding charisma and an undeniable connection with his audience. His energetic stage antics, coupled with the band’s tight musicianship – the infectious guitar riffs of Hugh Harris, the solid rhythm section, and the dynamic interplay between the musicians – create a truly immersive and exhilarating live experience. The atmosphere at a Kooks concert is always one of joyous camaraderie, with the band and the audience feeding off each other’s energy. Expect a performance that is both intimate and monumental, with the band pouring their hearts and souls into every note. While the exact duration of the set can vary, a typical Kooks headline show lasts approximately 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring a comprehensive and satisfying musical journey.

FAQs

Will The Kooks play songs from their debut album, Inside In/Inside Out? Absolutely! The Kooks consistently deliver a setlist that features a healthy dose of their most beloved early material. You can definitely expect to hear fan favourites from Inside In/Inside Out, which are always met with an incredible reaction from the crowd.

Has Luke Pritchard always been the frontman for The Kooks? Yes, Luke Pritchard has been the sole frontman and lead singer of The Kooks since the band’s formation in 2002. His distinctive vocals and charismatic stage presence are integral to the band’s identity.

What is The Kooks’ general approach to performing live? Is it more intimate or high-energy? The Kooks are known for a high-energy live performance that still manages to feel incredibly intimate. Frontman Luke Pritchard has a fantastic ability to connect with the audience, and the band’s infectious music naturally encourages a lively and engaging atmosphere. They strike a perfect balance between raw energy and genuine connection.

Will The Kooks be performing any new material at La Riviera? While it’s difficult to confirm specific setlists in advance, The Kooks typically incorporate a mix of their classic hits and newer songs into their live shows. If they have released new music prior to the Madrid concert, there is a strong possibility that some of it will be featured in their performance, showcasing their ongoing artistic development.

How long do The Kooks typically play for during their concerts? A typical Kooks headline concert usually lasts between 90 minutes and two hours. This allows them ample time to play a comprehensive selection of their hits and fan-favourite tracks from across their career.

Is The Kooks’ music suitable for all ages? The Kooks’ music is generally considered to be indie-rock and is suitable for most ages. However, live music venues may have their own age restrictions. It’s always advisable to check with La Riviera directly regarding any specific age policies for the event.