October Drift Bring the Heat to a Windy Manchester Night at Gorilla

Review and Photos By Paul McWilliams

It was a quintessential autumn evening in Manchester—damp, windy, and chillingly atmospheric. As fans filed into Gorilla, shedding layers and bracing for a night of music, you could feel the collective anticipation in the room. October Drift had already gained a loyal following, and from the look of the crowd, they had drawn in plenty of new ears, too. I’ll admit, I was part of that latter group, but by the end of the night, it was clear I’d discovered a band worth following.

The night kicked off with a dramatic entrance, underscored by strobe lights that heightened the tension before the band finally took the stage. Their understated arrival was met with cheers and a building excitement that almost felt tangible. Without a word, they dove straight into their first track, delivering their signature blend of heavy pop and indie rock with a raw energy that felt both polished and spontaneous. The power of their music swept through the room, making each song feel like a tidal wave crashing over the crowd.

From the outset, October Drift’s stage presence was magnetic. Kiran Roy, the lead vocalist, had an intensity that seemed to come from somewhere deep, a presence that effortlessly filled the room. Guitarist Dan Young, bassist Alex Bispham, and drummer Chris Holmes all fed into the relentless energy, each contributing their own flavor to the sound. You could tell they were fully immersed in the moment, each song driving them harder and pulling the crowd further into the performance.

Song after song, October Drift kept the energy high, transitioning smoothly between anthemic rock and hauntingly introspective tracks. “Demons” set the night ablaze, followed by fan favorites like “Tyrannosaurus Wreck” and “Blame the Young,” each building on the intensity of the last. With “Cherry Red” and “Airborne Panic Attack,” the atmosphere grew darker, and you could see the crowd fully invested, swaying and singing along. Each track was a masterclass in tension and release, keeping the audience on the edge while grounding them in a shared experience.

The band’s chemistry with the audience was effortless. You could feel the mutual energy—a rare synergy that blurred the line between performer and listener. October Drift wasn’t just playing to a crowd; they were part of it. This connection became most apparent during the quieter moments, where the band’s raw, emotional side came to the forefront. “Wallflower” and “Oh the Silence” brought an almost vulnerable shift in tone, drawing everyone in for a more introspective moment. Even in these quieter spaces, the crowd remained captivated, hanging onto every note.

When the time came for the encore, October Drift chose to close with something truly special. Kiran and Chris stepped into the crowd, performing an acoustic, stripped-down rendition of “Like the Snow We Fall.” The entire venue fell silent, almost reverent, and the song’s intimate lyrics created an emotional bond that resonated deeply. It was a rare moment that felt less like a concert and more like a gathering of friends sharing something significant. As the final chords faded, the crowd erupted, a final outpouring of appreciation for a performance that had far exceeded expectations.

October Drift at Gorilla was more than just a gig; it was an experience—a reminder of how powerful live music can be. For anyone craving a night of high-energy, soul-stirring rock, October Drift is a must-see. With a night like this, they’ve cemented their place as one of the most captivating live acts to hit the scene, and they’ve undoubtedly found a new fan in me.