Tom McGuire & the Brassholes

Get Ready to Groove: Tom McGuire & the Brassholes Live at Brudenell Social Club

Leeds is set to experience an unforgettable night of electrifying funk and soul as the sensational Tom McGuire & the Brassholes descend upon the legendary Brudenell Social Club on Thursday, 20th November 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an immersion into a world of infectious rhythms, powerful horns, and raw, unadulterated musical talent. Prepare yourself for a performance that will leave you breathless, exhilarated, and utterly captivated. Known for their explosive live shows and genre-bending sound, Tom McGuire & the Brassholes promise an evening that transcends the ordinary, solidifying their reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting live acts.

About Tom McGuire & the Brassholes

Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Glasgow, Tom McGuire & the Brassholes have carved a formidable reputation for themselves as purveyors of some of the UK’s most exhilarating funk and soul music. Since their inception, the band has been relentlessly touring and honing their craft, building a fervent following with their dynamic stage presence and undeniable musical prowess. At the heart of their sound lies the magnetic charisma of frontman Tom McGuire, whose soulful vocals, imbued with a natural warmth and effortless charm, are the perfect vehicle for the band’s infectious grooves.

However, the magic of Tom McGuire & the Brassholes lies equally in the powerhouse of their horn section – the titular Brassholes. This formidable assembly of brass virtuosos delivers intricate, punchy horn arrangements that weave seamlessly through the band’s compositions, adding layers of texture and explosive energy. Their music is a joyous collision of influences, drawing from classic funk pioneers, soulful R&B legends, and contemporary jazz sensibilities, all filtered through their own unique and contemporary lens.

Over the years, the band has released a string of critically acclaimed singles and EPs, each one a testament to their evolving sound and unwavering commitment to musical excellence. Tracks like “Just for You,” “Say What You Mean,” and the fan-favourite “Take My Time” have become anthems, showcasing their knack for crafting unforgettable melodies and irresistible rhythms. Their music is characterised by tight musicianship, sophisticated arrangements, and an infectious sense of fun that translates brilliantly to their live performances. They’ve graced stages at some of the UK’s most prestigious festivals and venues, consistently leaving audiences clamouring for more. This Leeds date at the Brudenell Social Club is set to be another highlight in their already stellar career.

Venue Information

The Brudenell Social Club, nestled in the heart of Leeds, is a venue synonymous with quality live music and a truly authentic atmosphere. For decades, it has been a cornerstone of the city’s music scene, hosting a diverse range of artists from emerging talent to established legends. The Brudenell boasts a legendary main room, renowned for its excellent acoustics and intimate yet energetic vibe, ensuring every performance feels personal and impactful. It’s the kind of place where you can get up close and personal with the artists and feel the music resonate through you. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a live performance that is nothing short of electrifying. Tom McGuire & the Brassholes are renowned for their high-octane shows, where the energy on stage is palpable and infectious. Expect a setlist that expertly blends their most beloved hits with new material, all delivered with the band’s signature blend of soulful vocals, searing guitar solos, and a brass section that will blow you away.

Their performance style is dynamic and engaging. Tom McGuire himself is a captivating frontman, effortlessly connecting with the audience, often stepping out into the crowd, sharing the infectious joy of the music. The Brassholes don’t just play their instruments; they become a living, breathing extension of the music, their horns soaring and punctuating every beat with precision and flair. You can anticipate intricate instrumental interplay, tight horn section solos that will leave you in awe, and a rhythm section that lays down grooves so deep you’ll find it impossible not to move.

The set typically clocks in at around 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the night and the crowd’s reaction. They have a natural ability to build momentum throughout their set, starting with a bang and culminating in a high-energy encore that leaves everyone on a euphoric high. Whether you’re a seasoned funk aficionado or new to the genre, Tom McGuire & the Brassholes deliver a show that is universally appealing, guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face and a rhythm in your soul. Get ready for a night of pure musical celebration.

FAQs

Q1: Will Tom McGuire & the Brassholes be playing their hit songs like “Just for You” and “Say What You Mean” at the Leeds show? A1: Absolutely! Tom McGuire & the Brassholes are known for their crowd-pleasing sets, and you can expect them to perform all their fan favourites, including “Just for You,” “Say What You Mean,” and other beloved tracks that have cemented their place in the funk and soul scene. They understand the importance of playing the songs that their audience loves, and they deliver them with as much passion and energy as ever.

Q2: What is the typical length of a Tom McGuire & the Brassholes live set? A2: A typical performance by Tom McGuire & the Brassholes usually lasts between 90 minutes and two hours. This generous set time allows them to showcase a wide range of their material, from their well-known hits to some newer explorations of their sound. They also have a fantastic knack for extending songs with improvisational sections and engaging with the audience, making the duration feel perfectly balanced.

Q3: Is it possible to request a specific song from Tom McGuire & the Brassholes during the gig? A3: While it’s unlikely they can take every individual request due to setlist planning, the band is known for being responsive to the energy of the crowd. If you have a favourite song, cheering for it loudly or singing along when it’s played are the best ways to show your enthusiasm! They often incorporate crowd interaction into their performances, and your passion for their music can certainly influence the night.

Q4: What kind of energy can I expect from Tom McGuire & the Brassholes’ performance style? A4: Expect an explosion of positive energy! Tom McGuire & the Brassholes are celebrated for their dynamic and engaging live shows. Their performance style is characterised by a palpable on-stage chemistry, Tom’s charismatic and interactive frontmanship, and a horn section that is both technically brilliant and incredibly soulful. They create an atmosphere of pure musical joy and encourage audience participation, making it an immersive experience rather than just a passive listening event.

Q5: Are there any specific musical influences that Tom McGuire & the Brassholes are particularly known for highlighting in their live shows? A5: While their sound is distinctly their own, Tom McGuire & the Brassholes often pay homage to the golden era of funk and soul. You’ll hear echoes of artists like James Brown, Stevie Wonder, and Earth, Wind & Fire in their tight horn arrangements and infectious grooves. However, they seamlessly blend these classic influences with contemporary funk, R&B, and jazz elements, ensuring their sound is fresh, relevant, and excitingly modern. Their live shows are a masterclass in honouring the past while boldly forging ahead.