The Slow Readers Club

The Slow Readers Club Live at Oran Mor, Glasgow

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as Manchester’s own indie-rock powerhouse, The Slow Readers Club, descends upon the iconic Oran Mor in Glasgow on Friday, 12th December 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the raw energy and anthemic sound that has cemented The Slow Readers Club as a must-see act on the live circuit. Known for their electrifying stage presence and a back catalogue of emotionally resonant tracks, this performance promises to be a captivating journey through their celebrated discography. Whether you’re a long-time devotee or discovering their potent blend of introspective lyricism and driving rhythms for the first time, a night with The Slow Readers Club at the legendary Oran Mor is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Experience the communal fervour of a live show where the audience and band become one, united by the power of exceptional songwriting and undeniable passion.

About The Slow Readers Club

Since their formation in 2011, The Slow Readers Club have steadily built a formidable reputation as one of the UK’s most compelling independent bands. Hailing from Manchester, the quartet – comprised of vocalist Aaron Starkie, guitarist Kurtis Starkie, bassist Alex Namey, and drummer Dan Tierney – have carved out a distinct niche with their brand of anthemic indie rock infused with introspective and often poignant lyrical themes. Their early releases garnered significant buzz within the independent music scene, leading to a string of successful EPs and critically acclaimed albums.

Their breakthrough came with the release of their third studio album, “For The Widows In Young Men,” in 2018, which showcased a matured sound and a collection of powerful singles that resonated deeply with their growing fanbase. Tracks like “I Saw The Light” and “Living In The Shadow” became instant crowd-pleasers, embodying the band’s signature blend of soaring melodies, driving guitar riffs, and Starkie’s emotive vocal delivery. This success propelled them onto larger stages and cemented their status as a band capable of delivering stadium-sized anthems within intimate settings.

The band’s subsequent albums, including “Trace The Lines” (2021) and the critically lauded “Kid Violence” (2023), have seen them continue to evolve their sound, exploring new sonic territories while staying true to their core identity. “Kid Violence” in particular, was praised for its raw intensity and ambitious production, further solidifying their artistic growth. Throughout their career, The Slow Readers Club have consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with their audience on an emotional level, crafting songs that speak to universal themes of hope, struggle, love, and loss. Their live performances are renowned for their intensity and the palpable connection they forge with the crowd, making each show a memorable experience.

Venue Information

Oran Mor is a beloved Glasgow institution, a former church beautifully transformed into a multi-purpose arts and entertainment venue. Its distinctive architecture, featuring an iconic theatre space with a steeply raked auditorium, offers an intimate yet grand setting for live music. The warm atmosphere, combined with excellent acoustics, ensures that every performance is enjoyed to its fullest. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a high-octane, emotionally charged performance from The Slow Readers Club. Their live shows are a testament to their dedication and passion for music, marked by an infectious energy that sweeps through the audience. Expect a setlist that masterfully blends fan favourites with newer material, showcasing the breadth of their artistic journey.

Highlights are likely to include anthemic singalongs to tracks like “I Saw The Light,” where Aaron Starkie’s commanding vocals soar over a thunderous rhythm section, and the more introspective yet equally powerful “Living In The Shadow,” which builds to a cathartic crescendo. Newer tracks from “Kid Violence” are also anticipated to feature prominently, demonstrating the band’s continued evolution and their willingness to push sonic boundaries. Expect to hear the raw, driving energy of songs like “When I Get Home” and the poignant lyricism of tracks such as “All Things Beautiful.”

The Slow Readers Club are known for their no-nonsense approach to live performance. There are no elaborate stage props or unnecessary frills; the focus is squarely on the music and the connection with the audience. Aaron Starkie is a captivating frontman, exuding charisma and a genuine connection with the crowd, often engaging in direct interaction. The rest of the band provide a rock-solid foundation, each member contributing to the powerful, layered sound that defines The Slow Readers Club. Expect dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, from moments of explosive energy to quieter, more reflective passages, all delivered with impeccable musicianship.

A typical Slow Readers Club set typically lasts around 90 minutes to two hours, including an encore. This duration allows ample time for them to delve into their extensive catalogue, offering a comprehensive and satisfying experience for both seasoned fans and newcomers alike. The atmosphere throughout the night will undoubtedly be one of fervent energy, communal joy, and a shared appreciation for authentic, heartfelt indie rock.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Slow Readers Club be performing songs from their latest album, “Kid Violence”? A1: Absolutely. The Slow Readers Club are renowned for showcasing their most recent work in their live sets, and “Kid Violence” has been met with significant acclaim. Fans can expect to hear some of the powerful new material alongside their established hits.

Q2: What is The Slow Readers Club’s typical stage presence like? A2: Their stage presence is energetic, raw, and authentic. Aaron Starkie is a dynamic frontman, known for his impassioned vocals and direct engagement with the audience. The band as a whole delivers a powerful and focused performance, letting the music speak for itself.

Q3: Can I expect to hear their most popular songs, such as “I Saw The Light”? A3: Yes, it’s highly probable. Fan favourites like “I Saw The Light” are staples in their live sets and are always met with an enthusiastic response from the crowd. They are adept at balancing newer material with the anthems that have won them a loyal following.

Q4: Is The Slow Readers Club known for any particular type of encore? A4: While they keep their setlists varied, The Slow Readers Club often conclude their shows with high-energy, crowd-pleasing tracks that leave the audience on a high. An encore is a standard part of their live performance, ensuring a memorable finale.

Q5: How long does a typical The Slow Readers Club set last? A5: You can generally expect a performance lasting between 90 minutes and two hours, including any encore. This allows them ample time to deliver a comprehensive and engaging set that covers their extensive discography.

Q6: Are The Slow Readers Club known for much audience interaction during their set? A6: While their primary focus is on delivering a powerful musical performance, Aaron Starkie is known to engage with the audience through spoken introductions and acknowledgements. The energy of the crowd often fuels their performance, creating a strong sense of connection.