Clutch Live at Manchester Academy

24 December 2025 rocknews

From the moment the lights dimmed and faded into Chuck Brown’s “We Need Some Money,” Neil Fallon and the band hit the stage with precision and unrelenting energy. The opening riffs of a blistering new cut – previewing fresh material teased for 2026 – slammed into the crowd, but the real ignition came as classics unfolded, delivering uncontrollable frenzy. The atmosphere was electric, with fans crowdsurfing relentlessly to the groove-laden beats, catching security off-guard in the best possible way – a testament to Clutch’s magnetic pull.

The setlist spanned wide across Clutch’s musical eras, pulling deep cuts and staples that kept the energy sky-high. Tracks like “Walking in the Great Shining Path of Monster Trucks” (a rare ’93 gem) and perennial crowd-pleasers stood out, inciting mass chants and headbanging throughout the packed venue. “Electric Worry” remains something of a live staple — a guaranteed explosion of audience involvement, its swampy slide guitar and bouncing tempo turning the floor into a sea of motion.

Fallon’s stage presence is a spectacle in itself: part preacher of rock ‘n’ roll, part commanding shaman. His theatrical delivery and gestures made even the deeper cuts feel monumental, drawing the crowd deeper into the ritual. The band’s airtight chemistry shone through – Dan Maines’ basslines thundering with heavyweight momentum, Tim Sult’s guitar slithering and scorching in equal measure, and Jean-Paul Gaster’s drumming anchoring everything with foot-tapping precision.

As the night wore on, it became clear this show wasn’t about theatrical flash or gimmicks – no pyrotechnics needed. It was pure, potent music delivered unadulterated by a band at the height of their powers, playing material that, even decades on, still has fans singing every word.

Supported by Greek stoners 1000mods and Norwegian punks Bokassa, the bill was a perfect primer for Clutch’s headlining dominance. Over 90 minutes of varying setlists (a tour hallmark for repeat attendees), Manchester got a night of raw joy – proof that Clutch’s groove endures.

Verdict: 9.5/10 – Essential for any rock fan. If they’re near you go. You won’t regret it.

Words and photos by Will Bloor