Wild Rivers are Canada’s rising folk band evolving from an intimate 100-person venue to a commanding sold-out show at Manchester Academy 2. Their performance was nothing short of captivating, blending soothing energy with interactive charm, and grounding the night in community and nostalgia. Bathed in warm orange tones, the stage mirrored the cozy, zen-like energy of the performance. The band’s folk sound, characterised by soft harmonies, paired with subtle bass and drums, enveloped the audience like a gentle embrace. The atmosphere was rare: a mature crowd, families, and even younger fans stood enthralled, phones forgotten, fully present in the moment.

Effortless vocals carried the audience through a setlist that felt like a sonic time capsule, echoing the early 2000s. As a bridge between the acoustic set , Devan Glover performed a beautiful solo on the piano of “Backfire”. The acoustic section of the show included songs like  “Neon Stars” and “Safe Flight” along side a fan voted song “Don’t”. As the show was closer to the end than from the start “I Do” restarted the party featuring an electrifying drum solo, injecting energy into the evening. Interactive moments added an extra layer of intimacy. During "Anyways I Love You", the band took turns sharing what they loved most, building a heartfelt bond with the audience. Fans became part of the band, singing along to “Cave” creating a shared experience and later, clapped the band’s simple choreography for “Stubborn Heart”, which was unexpected and fun.

The band ended on a high note with their hit single “Thinkin ‘Bout Love”, leaving the crowd swaying, singing, and basking in a collective euphoria. Their sound, their connection with fans, and even their love for Manchester’s iconic This and That curry house, demonstrate that this band is grounded in authenticity. If tonight’s performance is any indication, their future is as bright as the neon stars they sing about.

Article and Photo Gallery by Taylor Byron