The Slow Readers Club

The Slow Readers Club Live at Islington Assembly Hall, London – Saturday, 6 December 2025

Get ready for an electrifying evening as Manchester’s finest, The Slow Readers Club, descend upon the magnificent Islington Assembly Hall in London on Saturday, 6 December 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a chance to experience one of the UK’s most captivating live bands in an iconic setting, promising a night of anthemic indie-rock, raw emotion, and an unforgettable atmosphere. Islington Assembly Hall, with its stunning Edwardian architecture and superb acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for The Slow Readers Club’s signature blend of driving rhythms, soaring melodies, and profoundly relatable lyrics. Prepare to be swept away by their powerful performance and immerse yourself in a musical journey that resonates long after the final chord fades.

About The Slow Readers Club

Emerging from the vibrant Manchester music scene, The Slow Readers Club have steadily built a formidable reputation as one of the most compelling and consistent independent bands in the UK. Formed in 2009, the quartet – consisting of Aaron Starkie (vocals), Kurtis Starkie (guitar), James Harding (bass), and Dave Burns (drums) – have carved a unique niche for themselves with their potent blend of indie-rock anthems, gothic undertones, and deeply personal songwriting. Their journey has been one of organic growth, fueled by relentless touring and a dedication to crafting songs that connect with their audience on a profound emotional level.

Over the years, The Slow Readers Club have released a string of critically acclaimed albums, each marking a significant step in their artistic evolution. From their debut, Lost In The Echo (2012), which introduced their raw energy, to the increasingly sophisticated soundscapes of Cavalcade (2015) and the introspective brilliance of Build A Tower (2018), they’ve consistently demonstrated an ability to refine their sound while retaining their core identity. Their fourth studio album, 9 (2021), further cemented their status, showcasing their mature songwriting and ability to craft expansive, cinematic tracks. Notable hits that have become staples of their live shows and fan favourites include the anthemic “Moving People,” a powerful call to arms; the introspective “I Saw The Light,” which showcases Starkie’s emotive vocal delivery; “Block Out The Sun,” a driving track with an infectious chorus; and the ever-popular “Great Escape,” a testament to their ability to blend melancholic introspection with uplifting energy. Their music often explores themes of societal pressures, personal struggles, love, and loss, delivered with an authenticity that has garnered them a dedicated and passionate fanbase.

Venue Information

Islington Assembly Hall stands as a Grade II listed building and a jewel of London’s Edwardian architectural heritage. Built in 1930, it boasts a magnificent main hall with a distinctive art deco style, featuring ornate plasterwork, a grand proscenium arch, and a beautiful wooden floor. Renowned for its exceptional acoustics, the venue provides an intimate yet grand setting that perfectly complements the powerful sound of live music. With a capacity that allows for a vibrant atmosphere without feeling overcrowded, Islington Assembly Hall offers an unparalleled experience for both performers and audiences. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that is both viscerally exciting and emotionally resonant. The Slow Readers Club are celebrated for their electrifying live shows, where their studio precision transforms into an unadulterated surge of energy. Aaron Starkie is a magnetic frontman, commanding the stage with his raw, passionate vocal delivery and an honest connection with the audience. The band’s synergy is palpable; James Harding’s propulsive bass lines lock in with Dave Burns’ dynamic drumming, providing an unshakeable rhythmic foundation, while Kurtis Starkie’s intricate and powerful guitar work weaves melodies and adds searing solos that elevate each track.

The setlist for this London date is expected to be a masterclass in their impressive back catalogue. Fans can anticipate a healthy dose of their most beloved anthems. Tracks like the urgent “Moving People” are guaranteed to ignite the crowd, with its soaring chorus and undeniable call-and-response potential. Expect the cathartic release of “I Saw The Light,” a track that showcases the band’s knack for blending vulnerability with sheer musical force. The infectious energy of “Block Out The Sun” will undoubtedly have the Assembly Hall jumping, while the introspective yet powerful “Great Escape” offers a moment of shared reflection and uplifting connection. Newer material from their latest releases is also likely to feature, demonstrating their continued artistic growth and ability to craft expansive, modern rock anthems.

Beyond the anthems, The Slow Readers Club are adept at weaving in moments of profound intimacy. Expect to be moved by their more reflective pieces, where Starkie’s poignant lyrics and haunting melodies create an almost spiritual atmosphere. Their performance style is one of genuine connection; they don’t just play at an audience, they play with them. Expect a dynamic ebb and flow, moving from explosive, crowd-surging moments to hushed, spellbinding passages. The entire performance is expected to last approximately 100-120 minutes, including a brief encore, ensuring a thoroughly satisfying and memorable musical experience from start to finish. This is a band at the peak of their powers, ready to deliver a show that will linger in your memory.

FAQs

Q1: What is the typical setlist length for a The Slow Readers Club gig? A: The Slow Readers Club typically perform for around 100-120 minutes, including an encore. Their setlists are carefully crafted to include a balance of their most popular hits, fan favourites, and newer material, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for their audience.

Q2: Are The Slow Readers Club known for any particular stage presence or audience interaction? A: Absolutely. The Slow Readers Club are renowned for their passionate and energetic live performances. Aaron Starkie is a captivating frontman, known for his raw vocal delivery and genuine connection with the crowd. The band as a whole exudes a strong stage presence and often engages directly with the audience, fostering a shared sense of energy and excitement.

Q3: Will The Slow Readers Club be playing songs from their latest album, 9, at this concert? A: It is highly probable that The Slow Readers Club will feature a significant selection of songs from their critically acclaimed album 9, alongside their established hits. They are committed to showcasing their evolving sound and artistry, and 9 represents a key part of their contemporary output.

Q4: Does The Slow Readers Club often play acoustic versions of their songs during live shows? A: While their primary strength lies in their powerful electric performances, The Slow Readers Club have been known to incorporate stripped-back or slightly rearranged versions of some songs into their sets, particularly during encores or for specific acoustic sessions. However, the main body of their show is typically delivered with their full, electrifying band sound.

Q5: How would you describe the general atmosphere of a The Slow Readers Club concert? A: The atmosphere at a The Slow Readers Club concert is typically electric, passionate, and communal. Their anthemic songs lend themselves to singalongs and a shared sense of exhilaration. While there are often moments of introspection and emotional depth, the overall feeling is one of positive energy, unity, and a deep appreciation for authentic indie-rock music.

Q6: Is it likely that The Slow Readers Club will play their early hit “Moving People”? A: “Moving People” is one of The Slow Readers Club’s most enduring and popular tracks, and it is almost always a staple of their live sets. Fans can be very confident that this anthemic favourite will be performed and will undoubtedly be a highlight of the evening.