Tourist

Tourist at SWG3, Glasgow

About the Event

Prepare for an immersive sonic journey as the critically acclaimed electronic artist Tourist graces the stage at Glasgow’s iconic SWG3 on Sunday, 22 February 2026. This is more than just a gig; it’s an invitation to experience the intricate soundscapes and emotive electronic artistry of one of the most compelling live electronic acts of our generation. For one unforgettable evening, SWG3 will transform into a haven for lovers of deeply textured, soul-stirring electronic music, as Tourist unveils his signature blend of melodic electronica, atmospheric sound design, and live performance prowess. Expect an evening that transcends the ordinary, where visuals and sound intertwine to create a truly memorable experience, showcasing the artistry that has earned Tourist widespread acclaim.

About Tourist

William Phillips, the visionary artist behind the moniker Tourist, has carved out a distinctive niche within the electronic music landscape since his emergence in the early 2010s. His music is characterized by its intricate layering, evocative melodies, and a profound emotional resonance that often belies the genre’s typical detachment. Tourist’s debut album, ‘Utopia’, released in 2016, was a revelation, earning him a Mercury Prize nomination and cementing his reputation as an artist capable of crafting deeply personal and universally relatable electronic soundscapes. His subsequent releases, including ‘Everyday’ (2019) and the double album ‘Inside Out’ (2021), have seen him further refine his craft, exploring themes of connection, isolation, and the beauty found in everyday moments.

Tourist’s sonic palette is rich and diverse, drawing inspiration from ambient, house, and techno, yet always retaining a unique fingerprint. He’s known for his meticulous production, weaving together delicate synth lines, propulsive rhythms, and often incorporating his own vocals, subtly processed and layered to add an additional layer of human intimacy. Notable tracks such as “Run” from ‘Utopia’ showcase his knack for building anthemic melodies that soar above driving beats, while “Awake” from ‘Everyday’ exemplifies his ability to craft introspective and atmospheric pieces that pull the listener into a contemplative state. The sprawling ambition of ‘Inside Out’ allowed him to delve even deeper, offering a sprawling yet cohesive exploration of dualities. His live performances are a testament to his dedication to the craft, meticulously recreating and reinterpreting his studio work with an energy and presence that captivates audiences worldwide. Tourist isn’t just an artist who produces music; he is a sonic architect, building intricate worlds with sound, inviting listeners to inhabit them and find their own meaning within the melodies.

Venue Information

SWG3 is Glasgow’s premier multi-disciplinary arts venue, located in the heart of the city’s West End. This former galvanizers’ yard has been transformed into a dynamic space that hosts a diverse range of events, from live music and club nights to art exhibitions and creative workshops. Known for its industrial aesthetic, raw brickwork, and cavernous performance spaces, SWG3 provides an atmospheric backdrop perfectly suited for the immersive experience that Tourist delivers. The venue boasts multiple distinct areas, each offering a unique perspective on the performance. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Attendees at SWG3 on Sunday, 22 February 2026, can anticipate a live performance that is as visually captivating as it is sonically intricate. Tourist is renowned for his live sets, which are a far cry from a simple DJ performance. He typically takes to the stage with a carefully curated setup of synthesizers, samplers, and effects units, meticulously constructing his tracks in real-time. This approach allows for a fluid and dynamic performance, where familiar melodies can evolve and new sonic textures can emerge organically.

Expect to hear a selection of highlights from his celebrated discography, including beloved tracks that have resonated with fans worldwide. From the euphoric highs of “Run” and the introspective beauty of “Awake” to potentially deeper cuts that showcase his production prowess, the setlist will be a journey through the emotional spectrum. Tourist’s performance style is characterized by its understated intensity. He is a figure often engrossed in his equipment, meticulously manipulating sounds and building layers with a quiet concentration that draws the audience in. The visual element of his shows is equally important, with carefully crafted lighting and projection designs often complementing the music, creating a multi-sensory experience that enhances the immersive quality of his sound. The set is expected to last approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours, allowing ample time for Tourist to build his intricate sonic narratives and for the audience to become fully absorbed in the atmosphere he creates. Prepare to be transported by a live electronic performance that prioritizes artistry, emotion, and a profound connection between the artist and the listener.

FAQs

Q1: Will Tourist be performing tracks from his latest album, ‘Inside Out’? A1: While we can’t confirm the exact setlist in advance, Tourist often draws from his entire catalogue, so it’s highly likely that tracks from ‘Inside Out’, alongside fan favourites from ‘Utopia’ and ‘Everyday’, will feature in the performance. His live sets are a dynamic representation of his artistic journey.

Q2: Is Tourist known for audience interaction during his live shows? A2: Tourist’s live performances tend to be more focused on the sonic and visual experience he creates. While he is aware of and appreciates his audience, his interaction is typically expressed through the music itself and the immersive atmosphere he cultivates, rather than direct vocal engagement with the crowd.

Q3: How long is a typical Tourist live set? A3: Tourist’s live sets usually run for approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours. This duration allows him the space to build complex soundscapes, explore different moods, and deliver a comprehensive and engaging performance.

Q4: Can I expect to hear remixes or new material during the show? A4: Tourist is an artist who constantly evolves. While he primarily focuses on his own original material, it’s not uncommon for him to subtly rework his tracks live or occasionally premiere new ideas. This makes each performance a unique experience.

Q5: What is Tourist’s performance style like? Does he sing live? A5: Tourist performs live using a setup of synthesizers, samplers, and controllers. He is an active performer, manipulating sounds and building his tracks in real-time. He does often incorporate his own vocals, subtly processed and layered, into his live performances, adding a distinct human element to his electronic sound.

Q6: Is Tourist’s music best enjoyed with headphones or live? A6: While Tourist’s music is meticulously produced and sounds fantastic through headphones, experiencing it live is a different, often more powerful, endeavour. The live performance allows for a fuller sonic immersion, a visceral connection to the bass frequencies, and the visual element that complements his soundscapes. It’s an opportunity to witness the artistry unfold in a shared, atmospheric space.