Wolf Alice

Wolf Alice Live at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham

Get ready, Nottingham! The critically acclaimed and genre-bending Wolf Alice are set to descend upon the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham for a night of electrifying performances and sonic exploration. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an opportunity to witness one of the UK’s most vital and innovative bands at the peak of their powers, delivering their signature blend of grunge, shoegaze, folk, and punk to a buzzing crowd. Prepare for an unforgettable evening as Wolf Alice weave their magic, captivating the audience with their raw energy, poignant lyricism, and an expertly curated setlist that traverses their celebrated discography.

About Wolf Alice

Emerging from the vibrant North London music scene in 2010, Wolf Alice have consistently defied easy categorisation, carving out a unique space in contemporary rock music. Fronted by the dynamic duo of Ellie Rowsell (vocals, guitar) and Joff Oddie (guitar), alongside the steady rhythm section of Theo Ellis (bass) and Joel Amey (drums), the band quickly garnered attention for their fearless experimentation and raw, visceral sound. Their debut EP, “Wolf Alice,” released in 2014, offered a tantalizing glimpse of their potential, showcasing a sound that was both fiercely modern and steeped in classic rock sensibilities.

The release of their debut full-length album, “My Love Is Cool,” in 2015 cemented their status as a band to watch. The album was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its diverse sonic palette and Rowsell’s captivating vocal delivery. It spawned anthemic singles like “Moaning Lisa Smile,” which earned them a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance, and the more ethereal “Fluffy.” Their follow-up, “Visions of a Life” (2017), further showcased their artistic growth, pushing boundaries with tracks like the psychedelic-tinged “Don’t Delete the Kisses” and the explosive “Yuk Foo.” This album earned them the coveted Mercury Prize for Album of the Year, a testament to their artistic merit and growing influence.

Most recently, their 2021 album, “Blue Weekend,” received widespread critical acclaim, earning them another Mercury Prize nomination and solidifying their position as one of the UK’s premier rock acts. This album saw them delve into even more introspective and emotionally resonant territory, with standout tracks such as the hauntingly beautiful “The Beach” and the blistering “Smile.” Throughout their career, Wolf Alice have been lauded for their electrifying live performances, a reputation they’ve built on stages across the globe, from intimate club shows to headline slots at major festivals. Their ability to effortlessly shift between delicate melodies and explosive, guitar-driven anthems makes them a compelling force in live music. Their journey from independent darlings to critically revered stadium-fillers is a testament to their unwavering artistic integrity and their profound connection with their audience.

Venue Information

The Motorpoint Arena Nottingham is a premier entertainment venue located in the heart of the city. This state-of-the-art arena hosts a wide array of events, from major sporting competitions to the world’s biggest music stars. With a capacity designed to create an intimate yet powerful atmosphere, it offers excellent acoustics and a vibrant setting for live music. The arena boasts modern facilities, including ample concessions, bars, and seating options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Its central location makes it easily accessible by public transport and close to a variety of hotels and amenities. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a dynamic and exhilarating performance from Wolf Alice that showcases their remarkable versatility. Their setlists are a masterclass in curation, seamlessly blending fan favourites with deeper cuts, ensuring a journey through their impressive discography. Expect to be swept up in the anthemic energy of tracks like “Moaning Lisa Smile,” where Ellie Rowsell’s vocals soar over a wall of distorted guitar, and the pulsating rhythms of “Don’t Delete the Kisses,” which builds into a euphoric crescendo.

The band’s performance style is renowned for its raw intensity and captivating stage presence. Rowsell is a magnetic frontwoman, effortlessly embodying different personas throughout the night, from vulnerable and introspective to fiercely powerful. The interplay between the guitars of Rowsell and Oddie provides a constant source of sonic texture, ranging from delicate, shimmering melodies to fierce, feedback-laden assaults. The tight, propulsive rhythm section of Ellis and Amey anchors the band’s sound, driving their more aggressive tracks and providing a subtle, intricate foundation for their more atmospheric moments.

You can anticipate a show that moves through various moods and genres. One moment you might be lost in the dreamy, shoegaze-infused soundscapes of “The Beach,” and the next you’ll be headbanging to the punk-infused ferocity of “Smile.” Their ability to command the stage with such conviction, coupled with the sheer sonic power they generate, creates an immersive experience. The set duration is typically around 90 minutes to 2 hours, allowing ample time for them to showcase the breadth of their musical evolution. Be ready for moments of quiet contemplation followed by explosive bursts of energy, all delivered with a palpable passion that resonates with every member of the audience. It’s this commitment to sonic diversity and emotional honesty that makes a Wolf Alice live show an unforgettable event.

FAQs

Q1: Will Wolf Alice be playing songs from all of their albums? A1: Based on their recent tours and setlist tendencies, it’s highly probable that Wolf Alice will perform a selection of songs spanning their entire acclaimed discography. This typically includes fan favourites and key tracks from their debut “My Love Is Cool,” their Mercury Prize-winning “Visions of a Life,” and their critically lauded “Blue Weekend.” They are known for digging into their back catalogue as well as showcasing their latest material, so expect a comprehensive journey through their musical evolution.

Q2: Is Wolf Alice known for extended instrumental sections or solos during their live shows? A2: While Wolf Alice are certainly accomplished musicians with skilled instrumentalists, their live performances tend to focus on the song as a whole, driven by Ellie Rowsell’s distinctive vocals and the band’s dynamic arrangements. You can expect powerful guitar work from Joff Oddie and strong rhythmic foundations, but extended, jam-style instrumental solos are not a primary feature of their typical live sets. Their strength lies in their cohesive sound and the emotional delivery of their songs.

Q3: How does Wolf Alice’s live energy compare to their studio recordings? A3: Wolf Alice are renowned for translating their studio power into an even more electrifying live experience. While their studio albums showcase their sonic craftsmanship, their live shows are where their raw energy truly shines. Expect a heightened intensity, a more visceral delivery of vocals, and a palpable sense of urgency and connection with the audience. Their live performances are often described as more potent and dynamic than their studio counterparts.

Q4: Does Wolf Alice typically engage with the audience during their concerts? A4: While their stage presence is captivating, Wolf Alice are generally more focused on delivering a powerful musical performance rather than extensive audience interaction. Ellie Rowsell may offer brief, heartfelt introductions or thanks between songs, but the primary focus is on the music itself. Their connection with the audience is built through the sheer emotional impact and energy of their performance.

Q5: What kind of atmosphere can I expect at a Wolf Alice concert? A5: The atmosphere at a Wolf Alice concert is typically electric and multifaceted. You can expect moments of communal euphoria during their anthemic tracks, where the crowd sings along with gusto. There will also be periods of intense focus and shared emotion during their more introspective or heavier songs. It’s a space where fans connect with the band’s diverse sound and honest lyrical themes, creating a vibrant and engaging environment for all.