LIVE REVIEW: PVRIS – Albert Hall, Manchester – 08/07/2025

Celebrating ten years of the epic debut album White Noise, PVRIS have been a trailblazer in the alternative heavy scene. From becoming the first female-fronted (or male-reared) act on Rise Records in 2014 to band founder, singer / songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Lyndsey Gunnulfsen being an LGBTQIA+ icon, the dark alternative act’s success stems from masterful songwriting and ability to resonate through emotional connection. 

The late nineteenth century architectural style of the Albert Hall, located on Peter Street in Manchester, makes the perfect backdrop to the haunting, Victorian-inspired aesthetics of White Noise. The grand structure forming the backdrop to the stage is comprised ofmahogany panels beneath towering organ pipes. Stained glass windows, gothic arches, and ornate plaster work that adorns the ceiling enhance the grandeur. It’s most atmospheric as the early evening sunlight shines into the venue, gradually dimming as the night progresses. Suspended above the stage itself are antique pieces of furniture, clocks, mirrors,and even a hat stand complete with hat and coat. It all creates an uncanny yet dream like theatricality. 

Indie / alternative artist Julia Wolf begins the evening with a dynamic and melodic setlist thatperfectly establishes the atmosphere throughout the Albert Hall. A classically trained pianist and singer-songwriter, Julia’s vocals feel personal and often intimate, while the musical accompaniment segues between more serene moments and sudden bursts of intensity. The setlist includes In My Room taken from Wolf’s recently released full length album Pressure, as well as songs from further back in her discography such as the likes of Last Summer. A truly compelling opening act with a flawless vocal performance, Wolf’s sound is most complementary to PVRIS. 

The electricity and anticipation in the air is inescapable. The show is divided into two parts; the first is a celebration of White Noise with part two showcasing a selection of their discography in the years that followed. Dramatic beats and strobing white lights signify the arrival of PVRIS, leading into Smoke. From the off fans are singing along to every word. Commanding the stage effortlessly, Gunnulfsen’s immaculate guitar and vocal performance has been honed through years of experience on the live stage. Stand out fan favourites My House, Mirrors and You And I all clearly resonate deeply with each audience member. The darknessof My House, thrilling catchy hooks of Mirrors and intimate mood of You And I together highlight the most loved facets of PVRIS’ sound, and of White Noise itself. 

The eerie slowing of a record played on a gramophone situated in the centre of the stage marks the end of the brief intermission. Diving headfirst into the explosive Burn The Witch demonstrates a ramped-up power, experimentation and dark aggression. While distinctive from White Noise, it reveals PVRIS’ natural sonic progression. This is demonstrated further into the set with Monster. The combination of lyrical hooks, memorable motifs and charismatic arrangements found in Dead Weight and Hallucinations keep the crowd fully engaged. The newest era, Evergreen, also makes an impact. PVRIS fuse aspects of each chapter across the past decade into an enticing collection that flows with ease. 

The energy and emotion of White Noise translates exquisitely against the stunning backdrop of the Albert Hall. PVRIS take the audience on a journey through realms of excitement, anguish, sorrow, dreams, and nightmares. It’s a spectacular celebration of the album’s and the band’s milestone, one that has touched the lives of so many.

Words by Holly Royle