On a cold winter evening in December, Manchester Academy 2 opened its doors to a night of sonic exploration and emotional resonance. With a line-up spanning diverse genres and themes, this gig proved to be an unforgettable experience for every music lover in attendance.
The night began with Belgian two-piece drum and bass noise machine Doodseskader (7), who delivered a performance that can only be described as a sonic assault on the senses. With their minimalist setup, they defied expectations, creating a colossal wall of sound.
Opening with Pastel Prison, their set was a perfect introduction to their unique blend of industrial sludge and noise-infused rap. Tracks like The Sheer Horror Of The Human Condition and It’s Not An Addiction If You Don’t Feel Like Quitting were visceral, drenched in raw emotion and relentless energy.
Closing with the blistering FLF, Doodseskader left the audience stunned, their intensity setting the tone for the night. For a support act, they managed to command attention like seasoned headliners.
The second act, Bristol-based quartet Svalbard (9), brought a heartfelt and electrifying set that resonated deeply with the crowd. It was a special night for the band, as it also marked their drummer’s birthday, which added a celebratory atmosphere to the emotional undertones of their music.
Finally, the highly anticipated Alcest (10) took to the stage, met with deafening cheers from an eager crowd. The French pioneers of black-gaze delivered a masterclass in emotional intensity and musical precision.
The second act, Bristol-based quartet Svalbard (9), brought a heartfelt and electrifying set that resonated deeply with the crowd. It was a special night for the band, as it also marked their drummer’s birthday, which added a celebratory atmosphere to the emotional undertones of their music.
Opening with the hauntingly beautiful Eternal Spirits, Svalbard guided the audience through a set-list that tackled themes of depression, resilience, and self-empowerment. Tracks like Open Wound and Defiance were met with fervent applause, the room pulsating with energy.
Vocalist Serena Cherry’s passionate performance was the beating heart of the set, blending ferocity and vulnerability in equal measure. By the time they closed with Faking It, Svalbard had the entire room in their grasp. This was a performance that not only showcased their technical skill but also created a sense of collective catharsis; a moment shared and cherished by everyone present.
Finally, the highly anticipated Alcest (10) took to the stage, met with deafening cheers from an eager crowd. The French pioneers of black-gaze delivered a masterclass in emotional intensity and musical precision.
Opening with L’Envol, Alcest immediately transported the audience into a dreamlike realm, where lush melodies and soaring vocals intertwined seamlessly. The set-list was a journey through their discography, featuring highlights like Écailles De Lune - Part 2 and Souvenirs D’un Autre Monde.
Each track was executed with remarkable precision, but it was the emotional weight behind their performance that truly captivated the audience. Neige’s vocals, ethereal yet powerful, carried an almost spiritual quality, and the band’s tight instrumentation amplified the impact of every crescendo.
One of the standout elements of the night was the stunning stage design. The lighting was synchronized perfectly with the music, casting shadows and colours that mirrored the mood of each song. Alcest’s performance wasn’t just a concert; it was an immersive experience. A perfect blend of sound and vision.
They closed the night with L’Adieu, a fittingly emotional farewell that left the crowd in awe, many visibly moved. For fans of Alcest, this performance was a dream come true; for newcomers, it was an unforgettable introduction to their world.
This gig was more than just a line-up of performances; it was a journey through sound, emotion, and artistry. Doodseskader’s raw energy, Svalbard’s heartfelt intensity, and Alcest’s transcendent beauty combined to create a night that will linger in the hearts of everyone who experienced it.
This gig was more than just a line-up of performances; it was a journey through sound, emotion, and artistry. Doodseskader’s raw energy, Svalbard’s heartfelt intensity, and Alcest’s transcendent beauty combined to create a night that will linger in the hearts of everyone who experienced it.
This was live music at its best: a celebration of creativity, vulnerability, and connection. If you missed it, you missed something truly special.
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