Wallows brought their infectious energy to Manchester’s O2 Victoria Warehouse for the second night of their sold-out stop on the Model World Tour, celebrating their third studio album Model. Despite the chilly October night, the venue was buzzing with excitement as fans packed in, eager to catch the LA-based indie pop trio in action. Known for blending indie pop, rock, and a touch of lo-fi vibes, Wallows has a knack for capturing both melancholic introspection and euphoric sing-alongs, and last night, they proved once again why they’re one of the genre’s most beloved acts.
The show opened with a setlist showcasing both new tracks from Model and fan favorites, striking a perfect balance between fresh material and classics. The stage design was simple yet atmospheric, with a moody, dynamic light show that set the tone for the evening. From the first note, Dylan Minnette, Braeden Lemasters, and Cole Preston brought high energy to each song, feeding off the audience’s palpable enthusiasm.
Highlights of the night included opening with the punchy, irresistible “Your Apartment” from their new album, which had the crowd bouncing and chanting every word as if it were already a staple in their setlist. Fan favorites like “Are You Bored Yet?” and “Pleaser” brought nostalgia and nostalgia-driven singalongs, showcasing the band’s well-established rapport with their audience. Dylan’s vocals were rich with emotion, contrasting perfectly with Braeden’s more grounded delivery, while Cole’s drumming anchored each track with a fiery precision that kept the momentum high.
For a band whose recorded sound often feels intimate and introspective, Wallows’ live performance was unexpectedly expansive. The sound filled every corner of the warehouse, and the band’s chemistry translated effortlessly to the stage. There were moments of humor, too, as they chatted with the crowd between songs, charming the audience with their laid-back personalities and easy banter.
The run of shows were both a testament to their growth and adaptability, confirming that Model is a worthy new chapter in their career and that Wallows are very much a band at the top of their game.
Photos & Words By Lewis Roberts | Exclusively For Music Why Not!
