The Psychedelic Furs

The Psychedelic Furs Live in Madrid: A Night of Post-Punk Brilliance at Sala Rossa

Get ready to immerse yourself in a sonic tapestry of iconic post-punk anthems as The Psychedelic Furs, one of the UK’s most enduring and influential bands, descend upon Madrid for a truly unforgettable evening. On Friday, 21st November 2025, Sala Rossa will play host to this legendary quartet, promising a performance that transcends mere nostalgia. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an invitation to relive the raw energy, poetic lyricism, and distinctive sound that has captivated audiences for decades. Prepare for an electrifying night where timeless hits meet the fervent passion of a band at the very height of their powers, delivering a show that resonates with both long-time devotees and a new generation of music lovers.

About The Psychedelic Furs

Emerging from the vibrant London post-punk scene of the late 1970s, The Psychedelic Furs quickly distinguished themselves with their unique blend of jagged guitar riffs, atmospheric synthesizers, and the unmistakable, soulful vocal stylings of Richard Butler. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1980, introduced the world to their brooding, yet melodic, sound, setting the stage for a career that would see them release a string of critically acclaimed albums and gain a devoted global following. Over the years, the band has navigated evolving musical landscapes, yet their core identity has remained steadfast: a commitment to intelligent, evocative songwriting delivered with an undeniable intensity.

The Psychedelic Furs’ discography is rich with gems that have become touchstones of the post-punk era and beyond. Their breakthrough hit, “Love My Way,” from their 1982 album Forever Now, showcased a more polished, yet still emotionally charged, sound that broadened their appeal. However, it was the anthemic “The Ghost in You” from 1984’s Mirror Moves that truly cemented their status, a soaring ballad that has become a staple on radio waves and at live performances alike. Further cementing their legacy, “Pretty in Pink,” the title track from the iconic John Hughes film, became a global phenomenon, its infectious energy and catchy chorus resonating with millions. Other notable hits include the driving “Heaven” and the introspective “Midnight.” Throughout their career, The Psychedelic Furs have consistently delivered music that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally engaging, proving their enduring relevance and their mastery of crafting songs that speak to the complexities of the human condition.

Venue Information

Sala Rossa is renowned as one of Madrid’s premier live music venues, celebrated for its intimate atmosphere and exceptional acoustics. This esteemed space provides the perfect setting for an artist of The Psychedelic Furs’ calibre, ensuring that every note, every lyric, and every moment of sonic exploration can be experienced with pristine clarity. Its commitment to fostering a vibrant live music culture makes it a natural home for an artist whose performances are as dynamic as their recorded output. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that is both a journey through their illustrious back catalogue and a vibrant testament to their continued artistic vitality. The Psychedelic Furs are renowned for their electrifying live shows, and this Madrid date at Sala Rossa promises to be no exception. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves together their most beloved and enduring hits, from the introspective depths of “The Ghost in You” to the pulsating urgency of “Heaven” and the undeniable singalong power of “Pretty in Pink.” Interspersed with these anthemic crowd-pleasers will be selections from their more recent, critically lauded work, demonstrating the band’s ongoing creative evolution and their ability to craft compelling new material that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with their classics.

The performance style of The Psychedelic Furs is characterized by an unwavering intensity. Richard Butler remains a captivating frontman, his distinctive vocal delivery conveying a potent blend of vulnerability and world-weariness, drawing the audience into the emotional core of each song. The interplay between the band members is a sight to behold; the sharp, intricate guitar work of the veteran musicians, the atmospheric and driving basslines, and the propulsive rhythm section create a sonic landscape that is both intricate and undeniably powerful. Their live shows are not just about playing the songs; they are about creating an experience, a shared emotional journey. The band’s stage presence is commanding yet authentic, fostering a deep connection with their audience. While the exact setlist is always a delightful surprise, a typical Psychedelic Furs performance can last upwards of ninety minutes to two hours, allowing ample time for them to explore the breadth of their musical prowess and to leave the audience fully satiated with their distinctive sound.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Psychedelic Furs be playing songs from their earliest albums like The Psychedelic Furs and Talk Talk Talk? Absolutely. The Psychedelic Furs are celebrated for their extensive and rich back catalogue, and their live sets are a testament to this. You can be assured that fan favourites and seminal tracks from their early, foundational albums will feature prominently in the Madrid setlist. These early works are the bedrock of their sound and are essential to understanding their enduring appeal, so expect to hear tracks that shaped the post-punk landscape.

Q2: What is the typical duration of a Psychedelic Furs concert? The Psychedelic Furs are known for delivering substantial and engaging performances. While specific timings can vary, a typical concert from the band generally lasts between 90 minutes and two hours. This allows them ample opportunity to showcase a diverse range of their material, from their most iconic hits to deeper cuts and perhaps even some newer tracks, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all attendees.

Q3: Can I expect to hear “Pretty in Pink” and “The Ghost in You” at the show? These are two of their most beloved and internationally recognized songs, and it would be highly unusual for The Psychedelic Furs to perform without them. “Pretty in Pink,” with its infectious energy, and the poignant ballad “The Ghost in You” are staples of their live repertoire and are guaranteed to be met with rapturous applause and singalongs from the Madrid audience.

Q4: What is Richard Butler’s current vocal condition? Has his voice changed significantly over the years? Richard Butler’s voice is one of the most distinctive and enduring elements of The Psychedelic Furs’ sound. While age inevitably brings subtle changes, his vocal delivery remains remarkably powerful and emotionally resonant. He has maintained the unique soulful quality that has defined his singing for decades, and his ability to convey raw emotion through his performance is a significant part of what makes their live shows so compelling. His voice is integral to the band’s identity, and fans can expect him to deliver the iconic melodies with his characteristic passion.

Q5: Are there any particular songs that are fan-favourites for live renditions that might not be major radio hits? Beyond their chart successes, The Psychedelic Furs have a deep well of fan-favourite tracks that resonate strongly with their dedicated following. Songs like the driving and anthemic “Heaven,” the more introspective “Love My Way,” and tracks from their critically acclaimed albums such as Mirror Moves and Book of Days are often highlighted by fans as peak live moments. Their ability to evoke a powerful atmosphere and engage the audience with both their well-known anthems and these cherished deeper cuts is a hallmark of their live performances.

Q6: Will The Psychedelic Furs be playing any new material in Madrid? The Psychedelic Furs have continued to release new music in recent years, demonstrating their ongoing creative drive. While the core of their live set will undoubtedly focus on their extensive and beloved back catalogue, it is not uncommon for bands of this stature to introduce new songs or even older, rarely played tracks into their setlists. This adds an element of surprise and keeps their live shows fresh and exciting for both long-term fans and those discovering their music anew. Attendees should be open to experiencing the band’s contemporary artistic expression alongside their timeless classics.