Primal Scream stormed Manchester’s Aviva Studios as part of their Come Ahead UK tour, delivering a performance that fused nostalgia with raw, pulsating energy. The Scottish rock legends, led by the ever-charismatic Bobby Gillespie, proved they’re as vital as ever, blending their genre-defying catalog into a set that had the crowd swaying, shouting, and lost in a haze of psychedelic rock and rave-infused anthems. Supported by Baxter Dury and Mozart Estate, the night was a masterclass in musical evolution, with Primal Scream reminding everyone why they’ve been a cultural force for over four decades.
The setlist was a journey through time, kicking off with newer tracks from their 2024 album Come Ahead, like the funky, politically charged “Love Insurrection,” which set a defiant tone. Gillespie’s vocals, dripping with passion, carried the weight of the band’s introspective recent work, while the crowd’s energy surged as classics like “Movin’ On Up” and “Rocks” erupted. These anthems, rooted in the Screamadelica era, transformed the venue into a euphoric dancefloor, with fans of all ages chanting along. The band’s ability to pivot from gritty rock to blissed-out electronica kept the atmosphere electric, each song a reminder of their chameleon-like brilliance.
Andrew Innes’ searing guitar riffs and Simone Butler’s driving basslines anchored the chaos, while Gillespie prowled the stage, his wiry frame radiating defiance and charm. The newer material, though less familiar, landed well, with “Ready To Go Home” showcasing a reflective side that resonated deeply. The production was tight, with kaleidoscopic visuals amplifying the psychedelic vibe, though some fans noted the sound mix occasionally muddied the vocals—a minor hiccup in an otherwise stellar show.
The audience, a mix of Screamadelica-era devotees and younger converts, fed off the band’s intensity, creating a communal vibe that felt like a throwback to Manchester’s Madchester heyday. Social media buzzed post-show, with fans calling it “tremendous” and “a privilege to witness.” Primal Scream didn’t just perform—they conjured a revolution, proving their legacy is as much about the present as the past. This was a night where Manchester’s heart beat to their primal rhythm, leaving everyone hungry for more.
Photo Copyright © Gary Mather
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