Wolf Alice

Wolf Alice Live at First Direct Arena, Leeds

Prepare yourself for an electrifying night as one of the UK’s most captivating live acts, Wolf Alice, descends upon Leeds! On Friday, 5 December 2025, the acclaimed indie rock quartet will be taking over the impressive First Direct Arena, promising an unforgettable evening for fans old and new. This is more than just a concert; it’s a chance to witness a band at the zenith of their powers, delivering a performance that is as raw and exhilarating as it is beautifully crafted. With their genre-bending sound, magnetic stage presence, and a catalogue of anthems that have soundtracked a generation, Wolf Alice are set to ignite Leeds with a spectacle of light, sound, and pure, unadulterated rock and roll energy. Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of this momentous occasion.

About Wolf Alice

Emerging from the vibrant London music scene, Wolf Alice have carved a formidable path through the indie landscape since their formation in 2010. Led by the dynamic frontwoman Ellie Rowsell, whose vocal versatility ranges from delicate introspection to ferocious power, the band – completed by guitarist Joff Oddie, bassist Theo Ellis, and drummer Joel Amey – have consistently defied easy categorisation. Their sonic identity is a thrilling kaleidoscope, seamlessly weaving together dream pop’s ethereal textures, grunge’s visceral energy, shoegaze’s atmospheric washes, and even touches of folk and electronic music. This adventurous spirit, coupled with their undeniable songwriting prowess, has earned them critical adoration and a devoted fanbase.

Their debut album, My Love Is Cool (2015), announced their arrival with a bang, featuring anthemic singles like the soaring “Moaning Lisa Smile” and the fiercely catchy “Bros.” The subsequent release, Visions of a Life (2017), cemented their status, garnering them the prestigious Mercury Prize and a BRIT Award nomination for its expansive and diverse sound. Hits like the explosive “Don’t Delete the Kisses” and the grittier “Yuk Foo” showcased their ever-evolving artistry. Their latest offering, the critically acclaimed Blue Weekend (2021), saw them reach new emotional depths and sonic complexities, earning further critical praise and proving their continued artistic growth. Tracks such as the haunting “The Last Man on Earth” and the driving “Smile” have become staples of their live sets, demonstrating their ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally resonant. Wolf Alice are not simply a band; they are a force of nature, renowned for their electrifying live performances that leave audiences breathless.

Venue Information

The First Direct Arena in Leeds is a state-of-the-art entertainment venue, renowned for its striking architecture and exceptional acoustics. Designed to host world-class musical acts and sporting events, it offers a truly immersive experience for concert-goers. With its unique honeycomb facade and a flexible seating arrangement, the arena provides excellent sightlines and sound quality from every perspective, ensuring that no matter where you are seated, you’ll have an unforgettable view of the stage and crystal-clear audio. The venue boasts a range of facilities to enhance your visit, including ample bars, food concessions, and accessible amenities, all contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable evening out. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When Wolf Alice grace the stage at the First Direct Arena, you can expect nothing short of a masterclass in live performance. Their sets are renowned for their dynamic ebb and flow, expertly curated to take the audience on a thrilling journey. You’ll likely hear a potent blend of their most beloved hits, from the shimmering indie-pop sensibilities of “Don’t Delete the Kisses” to the raw, unbridled energy of “Moaning Lisa Smile.” Expect to be swept away by the ethereal beauty of tracks like “The Last Man on Earth,” showcasing Ellie Rowsell’s astonishing vocal range and emotional depth. Equally, prepare for the ferocious intensity of their heavier numbers, such as “Smile,” which will undoubtedly have the arena shaking.

Wolf Alice’s performance style is a captivating fusion of infectious energy and genuine connection. Ellie Rowsell is a magnetic force on stage, commanding attention with her captivating presence and expressive delivery. The interplay between the band members is electric, a testament to their years of collaboration and shared musical vision. Expect powerful guitar riffs from Joff Oddie, a driving and solid rhythm section from Theo Ellis and Joel Amey, and a collective sense of joyful abandon. Their sets are not just a recitation of songs; they are an experience. Lights will flash, the crowd will roar, and the band will pour their hearts and souls into every note. While the exact setlist will be a surprise, it’s safe to say you’ll be treated to a comprehensive showcase of their impressive discography, spanning their evolution from debut to their latest triumphs. The show is expected to run for approximately two hours, including any potential encore, providing ample time to be fully immersed in the Wolf Alice universe.

FAQs

Q1: Will Wolf Alice be playing songs from all of their albums at this gig? Absolutely! Wolf Alice are known for their comprehensive setlists that traverse their celebrated discography. You can expect a thrilling mix of fan favourites from My Love Is Cool, Visions of a Life, and Blue Weekend, alongside potentially some deeper cuts for the dedicated followers.

Q2: What is Wolf Alice’s typical stage presence like? Wolf Alice are renowned for their electrifying and engaging stage presence. Frontwoman Ellie Rowsell is a captivating performer, exuding charisma and power, while the band as a whole create a palpable energy. They move between moments of delicate introspection and explosive rock ‘n’ roll catharsis with ease, ensuring a dynamic and visually stimulating performance.

Q3: Can I expect moshing or crowd surfing at a Wolf Alice gig? Given their energetic material and the nature of rock concerts, it’s certainly possible that mosh pits and crowd surfing may occur, particularly during their more intense tracks. However, this is at the discretion of the audience, and the venue’s safety guidelines will be in effect.

Q4: Is Wolf Alice suitable for younger fans? Wolf Alice’s music often explores mature themes and can feature strong language, particularly in their heavier tracks. While many younger fans do enjoy their music, it’s recommended that parents or guardians consider the lyrical content and overall intensity of the performance when deciding if it’s suitable for their children.

Q5: How long does a typical Wolf Alice set last? A typical Wolf Alice set usually lasts around two hours, including any encore performances. This allows them ample time to showcase a broad range of their musical styles and hit songs, providing a full and satisfying concert experience.