These New Puritans

An Evening with These New Puritans at The White Hotel, Manchester

This November, prepare for an immersive and transformative sonic experience as acclaimed experimental rock pioneers, These New Puritans, descend upon Manchester for a singular performance at the hallowed industrial arches of The White Hotel. On Friday, 7 November 2025, the band will deliver a set that promises to be a deep dive into their unparalleled sonic universe, a testament to their enduring influence and relentless artistic evolution. This is not just a gig; it’s an opportunity to witness a band operating at the zenith of their creative powers, a rare chance to be enveloped by their meticulously crafted soundscapes and captivating stage presence in one of Manchester’s most atmospheric venues. The White Hotel, with its raw, unvarnished aesthetic, provides the perfect crucible for These New Puritans’ intense and often challenging artistic output. Expect a night that will linger long after the final note fades, a powerful affirmation of music’s capacity for profound emotional resonance and intellectual stimulation.

About These New Puritans

Since emerging from Southend-on-Sea in the late 2000s, These New Puritans have carved out a unique and revered position within contemporary music. Initially lauded for their angular, post-punk-infused debut Beat the Drum Slowly (2008), the band, fronted by the enigmatic Jack Barnett, quickly demonstrated an ambition that transcended genre conventions. Their sophomore effort, Hidden (2010), marked a significant artistic leap, showcasing a more expansive and sonically adventurous approach, incorporating elements of avant-garde, industrial, and even minimalist classical music. This album, featuring the critically acclaimed single “We Want War,” cemented their reputation as fearless innovators.

The subsequent release, Field of Reeds (2013), is widely considered a masterpiece. A sprawling, ambitious work, it explored themes of mortality, family, and the search for meaning with breathtaking sonic detail. Collaborations with the London Sinfonietta and a more orchestral palette imbued the album with an almost symphonic grandeur. Tracks like the epic “Fragment Two” and the haunting “The Golden Age of Pneumatic Systems” became touchstones of their evolving sound. Their latest offering, Inside the Great Green (2019), saw them further refine their distinctive aesthetic, blending intricate electronic textures with powerful vocal performances and a palpable sense of emotional urgency. Throughout their career, These New Puritans have consistently defied expectations, refusing to settle into any comfortable artistic niche. They are a band that demands attention, rewarding listeners with a depth and complexity rarely found in modern music, making them a truly essential act for anyone seeking a challenging and profoundly rewarding sonic journey.

Venue Information

The White Hotel, nestled in the heart of Salford, is a renowned venue celebrated for its gritty, industrial aesthetic and its commitment to showcasing cutting-edge and experimental music. Housed within a former industrial building, its raw concrete walls, exposed brickwork, and low ceilings create an intimate and intensely atmospheric setting. The venue’s no-frills approach allows the focus to remain squarely on the performance, fostering a direct and visceral connection between the artist and the audience. Its reputation for hosting discerning and forward-thinking acts makes it the ideal space for an artist like These New Puritans, where the music itself is paramount. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that is far more than a mere rendition of studio recordings. These New Puritans are known for their electrifying and meticulously crafted live shows, where their complex sonic tapestries are brought to life with an intensity that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally arresting. While a definitive setlist for November 2025 remains a tantalizing prospect, fans can anticipate a journey through their acclaimed discography. Expect to hear powerful renditions of tracks that have defined their career. From the driving, percussive urgency of “We Want War” and the intricate, layered beauty of “Fragment Two,” to the atmospheric depth of “The Golden Age of Pneumatic Systems,” and the raw emotional power of songs from Inside the Great Green, the set will undoubtedly showcase the breadth and depth of their artistic vision.

Their performance style is characterized by a remarkable precision and a palpable intensity. Jack Barnett is a compelling and often mesmerizing frontman, his delivery ranging from impassioned shouts to haunting whispers. The band’s musicianship is of the highest calibre, with each member contributing to the dense, layered soundscapes that are their hallmark. Expect intricate electronic programming, powerful live instrumentation, and a dynamic interplay between the sonic elements. The lighting and stage production, while rarely ostentatious, are always thoughtfully curated to enhance the mood and atmosphere of the music, drawing the audience further into their immersive world. The overall duration of the performance will likely be around 90 minutes to 2 hours, allowing ample time for the band to explore their extensive catalogue and for the audience to fully absorb the profound sonic and emotional impact of the show. This is a performance designed to envelop you, to challenge your perceptions, and to leave you with a profound appreciation for the power of experimental sound.

FAQs

Q1: What are These New Puritans’ most well-known songs? While the band has a consistently acclaimed body of work, some of their most frequently cited and celebrated tracks include “We Want War,” “Orchard Gate Display,” “Fragment Two,” “The Golden Age of Pneumatic Systems,” and “Where the Ribbons End.” Their live sets often feature a selection from across their albums, so expect a mix of fan favourites and deeper cuts.

Q2: How would you describe the typical These New Puritans live experience? These New Puritans deliver a live experience that is renowned for its intensity, precision, and sonic depth. Their performances are often described as immersive and cathartic. They meticulously recreate their complex studio arrangements with a powerful live energy, often accompanied by considered lighting and stage design that amplifies the mood of their music. It’s a focused and often deeply affecting experience for the audience.

Q3: Does Jack Barnett speak much during the performance? Jack Barnett is not known for extensive stage banter. His primary mode of communication is through his powerful vocal performances and the music itself. When he does speak, it’s usually brief and in service of the overall atmosphere and intent of the show, allowing the music to take centre stage.

Q4: Are These New Puritans’ live shows suitable for those new to their music? Absolutely. While These New Puritans are an experimental band, their live performances are incredibly engaging. Even if you’re unfamiliar with their work, the sheer power and artistry on display are likely to captivate you. It’s an excellent opportunity to be introduced to their unique sound in a powerful live setting. You might discover a new favourite artist.

Q5: What kind of audience usually attends These New Puritans concerts? The audience for These New Puritans tends to be a discerning group of music enthusiasts who appreciate artists that push boundaries and offer something beyond the mainstream. You’ll find fans of experimental rock, post-punk, electronic music, and those who value artistic integrity and innovation. It’s a crowd that comes to listen and immerse themselves in the music.

Q6: Are there any specific visual elements or themes typically associated with These New Puritans’ live shows? While the focus is predominantly on the sonic experience, These New Puritans often employ subtle but effective lighting and visual cues that complement the mood of their music. Themes of nature, industrialism, and introspection are often woven into their album concepts, and these can be subtly echoed in the visual presentation of their live performances, creating a cohesive artistic statement.