Enter Shikari: A Live Storm of Sound and Spectacle

Enter Shikari’s live performances are renowned for their boundless energy, inventive production, and sheer connection with their audience—and their Liverpool show was no exception.

Taking to the stage at Mountford Hall, Enter Shikari showcase their best material and their inimitable live energy.

The opening act, Teenage Wrist, may have seemed an unusual choice at first, bringing a different energy compared to the headliners. However, they delivered a strong and commendable set that showcased their musical talent.

Their live sound was polished and engaging, with impressively clean guitar tones and a lead vocalist, Marshall Gallagher, whose range was nothing short of stellar. While their stage presence didn’t immediately ignite the crowd, their persistence paid off. After a second call for excitement, the audience responded with an enthusiastic roar, clearly eager for the night ahead.

While the tempo of their set left some hoping for more upbeat numbers to match the electric atmosphere of the headlining act, their final song, 'Earth Is A Black Hole', hinted at what was to come—delivering a burst of energy that set the stage perfectly for Enter Shikari’s entrance.

Overall, a solid and enjoyable performance that demonstrated their skills, even if the vibe was a touch more restrained compared to the evening’s main event.

Up next were Enter Shikari. From the moment they opened with a remixed version of ‘Bloodshot’, which seamlessly transitioned into the original, the crowd was fully engaged, dancing from the very first beat. By the third song, ‘The Dreamer’s Hotel’, the room had erupted into classic Enter Shikari chaos, with crowd surfers pouring over the barrier in true fan-fuelled fervour.

A minor hiccup during ‘Leap Into The Lightning’—caused by a beer-soaked mixing desk—momentarily threw the set off course. Yet, in a testament to the band’s professionalism, the issue was resolved mid-set, allowing them to revisit the track just a few songs later without losing momentum. This smooth recovery spoke volumes about their expertise and unshakable stage presence.

Frontman Rou Reynolds brought his usual flair, complete with his signature banana (this time paired with a brew), adding that quintessential Enter Shikari quirk. Despite being on a more intimate tour, their production was anything but minimal. The immersive staging and visuals amplified the energy, particularly during ‘THE GREAT UNKNOWN’, which was delivered with an almost heavier edge—a tweak that the audience and guitarist Rory Clewlow seemed to relish alike.

The band’s connection with fans shone brightest when bassist Chris Batten ventured to the barrier during ‘goldfĩsh ~’. Effortlessly balancing intricate basslines with fan interactions, Chris’s performance was a standout moment of the night. Of course, no Shikari show would be complete without Rou pulling out his trumpet, which added an exhilarating touch to the closing track, ‘A Kiss for the Whole World’.

Enter Shikari’s Liverpool performance was yet another reminder of why they stand out among live acts. Their blend of chaotic energy, technical prowess, and audience connection creates an experience like no other. If you’ve never seen them live, you’re missing out on one of the most electrifying shows in music today.

Sophie Ditchfield

@soph_ditchfield

Images: Sophie Ditchfield