The Vaccines

The Vaccines Live at The Prospect Building, Bristol

About the Event

Prepare for an electrifying night as indie-rock titans The Vaccines descend upon Bristol for a highly anticipated performance at the iconic The Prospect Building on Wednesday, 11 March 2026. This is more than just a gig; it’s an immersion into the infectious energy and anthemic choruses that have solidified The Vaccines’ status as one of the UK’s most beloved live acts. Having carved a unique space in the alternative music scene with their potent blend of surf-rock tinged melodies and stadium-ready hooks, this Bristol show promises to be a vibrant celebration of their enduring appeal. Expect a setlist brimming with fan favourites and potentially new material, all delivered with the raw, unadulterated passion that has become their trademark. The Prospect Building, with its impressive architecture and intimate yet expansive atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for a band known for their dynamic stage presence. This promises to be a standout evening for any music lover in Bristol and beyond.

About The Vaccines

Emerging from London in the late 2000s, The Vaccines quickly distinguished themselves with a sound that was both refreshingly familiar and undeniably modern. Fronted by the charismatic Justin Hayward-Young, the band burst onto the scene with their debut album, ‘What Did You Expect from The Vaccines?’ in 2011. This critically acclaimed record, featuring chart-topping singles like “If You Wanna,” “Post Break-Up Sex,” and “All in White,” showcased their knack for crafting instantly memorable, high-energy indie-pop anthems. Their music draws inspiration from classic garage rock and surf rock, infused with a distinctly British sensibility and a lyrical honesty that resonates deeply with their audience.

Over the years, The Vaccines have consistently evolved their sound, demonstrating a remarkable ability to retain their core identity while exploring new sonic territories. Subsequent albums, including ‘Come of Age’ (2012), ‘English Graffiti’ (2015), and ‘Combat Sports’ (2018), have seen them delve into more introspective themes and experiment with a broader palette of instrumentation and production techniques. Despite these stylistic shifts, their signature blend of soaring guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and Hayward-Young’s distinctive vocal delivery remains a constant. They have built a formidable reputation not just through their recorded output, but through their electrifying live performances. Their commitment to delivering an unforgettable show has seen them grace the stages of major festivals worldwide and embark on numerous sold-out tours, earning them a loyal and passionate fanbase. Hits like “Night Driving,” “Radio Love,” and “Your Love Is My Drug” are testament to their enduring ability to craft songs that are both exhilarating and emotionally resonant.

Venue Information

The Prospect Building, nestled in the heart of Bristol, is a venue renowned for its striking architectural design and its capacity to host memorable live music events. Its unique atmosphere provides an intimate setting that still allows for a powerful sonic experience, making it an ideal location for bands with the energy and stage presence of The Vaccines. The building’s acoustics are designed to amplify the impact of live performances, ensuring that every note and lyric reaches the audience with clarity and force. Whether you’re a seasoned concert-goer or attending your first show at The Prospect Building, you’re guaranteed a quality experience in a visually impressive and acoustically superior environment. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an exhilarating performance from The Vaccines that embodies their reputation for high-octane, crowd-pleasing live shows. Their setlists are a masterclass in balancing fan-favourite anthems with deeper cuts and potentially glimpses of new material, ensuring a journey through their acclaimed discography. Expect to be swept away by the infectious energy of songs like “If You Wanna,” which is almost guaranteed to ignite a singalong, and the propulsive drive of “Post Break-Up Sex.” Tracks from their earlier albums, such as “Wetsuit” and “Nørth Våle,” often feature, showcasing their raw, early sound that first captured the attention of indie fans.

As their career has progressed, The Vaccines have also incorporated material from their more recent releases, with songs like “Your Love Is My Drug” from ‘Combat Sports’ bringing a renewed sense of urgency and polished rock swagger. Expect the band to deliver these tracks with their characteristic vigour. Their performance style is characterized by a relentless energy from every member of the band. Justin Hayward-Young is a captivating frontman, exuding charisma and connecting directly with the audience through his passionate vocals and energetic stage movements. The guitar interplay is always a highlight, with sharp, melodic riffs and powerful solos that punctuate their sound. The rhythm section provides a thunderous backbone, driving the songs forward with unwavering intensity.

The show is expected to last approximately 90-110 minutes, a generous set time that allows for a comprehensive exploration of their catalogue. Throughout the performance, The Vaccines have a knack for building momentum, moving from anthemic singalongs to more introspective moments, before culminating in a powerful encore. The lighting and production are typically designed to enhance the mood of each song, creating a dynamic visual spectacle that complements the sonic intensity. This is a band that understands how to put on a show, and their Bristol date at The Prospect Building is set to be no exception. Get ready to jump, sing, and soak in the undeniable power of The Vaccines live.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Vaccines play songs from their debut album, ‘What Did You Expect from The Vaccines?’? A1: Absolutely. The Vaccines have consistently championed their debut album in their live sets, and it’s highly probable that classics like “If You Wanna,” “Post Break-Up Sex,” and “All in White” will be featured prominently in their Bristol performance. These songs are integral to their identity and always go down a storm with the audience.

Q2: Can I expect to hear newer material from The Vaccines? A2: While their older hits are always a staple, The Vaccines have a strong discography that they are proud to represent live. It’s very likely they will incorporate songs from their more recent albums, such as ‘Combat Sports’ and potentially any new material they may have released leading up to the March 2026 date. This ensures their sets feel fresh and reflective of their current artistic direction.

Q3: What is The Vaccines’ typical stage presence like? A3: The Vaccines are renowned for their energetic and engaging stage presence. Frontman Justin Hayward-Young is a charismatic performer who connects with the crowd, and the band as a whole delivers a powerful, high-octane show. Expect plenty of movement, infectious enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for their music that translates directly to the audience.

Q4: How long is a typical The Vaccines concert? A4: A standard The Vaccines concert usually lasts between 90 and 110 minutes. This allows them ample time to play a comprehensive selection of their hits and fan favourites, often concluding with a rousing encore that leaves the crowd wanting more.

Q5: Do The Vaccines often play surprise songs or covers? A5: While their core setlist is generally consistent, The Vaccines have been known to occasionally throw in surprise songs or even well-chosen covers during their live shows. These moments are often unannounced and add an element of spontaneity to their performances, making each gig feel unique. However, the focus will overwhelmingly be on their own extensive catalogue.

Q6: Is there any specific advice for fans attending a The Vaccines gig? A6: Come prepared to move! The Vaccines’ music is inherently danceable and anthemic, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready to sing along at the top of your lungs. Embrace the energy of the crowd and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. It’s an experience best enjoyed with an open mind and plenty of enthusiasm.