Music

Live Review: Courtney Barnett @ The Albert Hall

0 409

Words by Callum Baker
Photography by Georgina Hurdsfield


Aussie indie figurehead Courtney Barnett made her anticipated return to Manchester on Monday, right off the back of the release of her latest album Tell Me How You Really Feel.

First up however, was Melbourne three piece Loose Tooth, who brought their fuzz-laden pop to The Albert Hall, a sound that found itself very much at home amongst a Mancunian crowd. They were ultimately well received and their performance acted as a fitting predecessor to the headline act.

Shortly thereafter, Courtney Barnett took to the stage, and proceeded to power through her latest album in full, with the later addition of her more well seasoned picks from her back catalogue. There was almost a coldness in the crowd which was to be eased by the introduction of her better known tracks in the latter part of the set, though it would be arguable that the rugged-slacker-rock of her newest release translated better into a live setting than some of her more subdued numbers. What Barnett neglected deliver in terms of fan service was more than made up for by great showmanship and an excellent demonstration of songwriting.

Given time, Courtney Barnett’s new material will no doubt earn itself the a place in fans hearts amongst the old.

About the author / 

Georgina Hurdsfield

Masters student in Psychological Wellbeing in Clinical Practice at Manchester Metropolitan University. Keen photographer and music enthusiast.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More News Stories:

  • Manchester Psych Fest 2026 review – dreamscapes, secret sets and unrestrained energy

    Featured image and gallery: Lucy Elson-Whittaker It’s that time of year again: Manchester Psych Fest returns with one of its toughest line-ups yet, forcing festivalgoers to make some difficult choices about where to spend their day. With so much packed across the city, sacrifices are inevitable. Racing across Manchester, we catch four standout sets spanning…

  • Leeds Festival 2026: Saturday review – Rain, riffs and raves

    Featured image: Henry Redcliffe Not to be outshined by the artists performing today, the rain makes its inevitable return to the skies of Yorkshire over Leeds Festival. With the downpours hardly taking a break, Saturday is the day for the indie-heads and brats, as two of the most anticipated acts of the weekend take the…

  • Leeds Festival 2026: Friday review – Sunshine, singalongs, and a special birthday bash

    Featured image: Georgina Hurdsfield Despite the dreary weather forecast, it seems the explosive noise of the night before has blown away the expected torrential rain, as the sun fights through the clouds to shine over Leeds Festival on Friday. With the opening of the ‘other’ stages, the first double headliner, and a very special birthday,…