The Libertines brought a rowdy night of rock’n’roll spirit to their hometown on their third and final night at the Roundhouse in London on November 1st. The atmosphere during their set was electric as fans eagerly sang along to the classic songs for their nearly two-hour-long performance. The night was filled with a packed line-up of performers that opened for The Libertines and ensured there wasn’t a dull moment all night. Bear Park, a trio from Newcastle, warmed up the crowd first with an upbeat set, genuinely excited to be there. During set changes, Will Varley captured the crowd’s attention with two stripped-back acoustic sets with his guitar while cracking jokes with the audience. Finally, the three girls of Cruel Hearts Club delivered a fun and dynamic performance. With a mix of upbeat and slower songs, they entertained the crowd and added to the anticipation for the main act.  

Pete Doherty surprised the audience just before The Libertines’ performance. He stepped on stage briefly to announce that his son, Astile Doherty, would read a poem for the audience. This added an element of unexpected anticipation and a personal touch to the evening. Shortly after, The Libertines took the stage, opening their set with their 2004 song “The Delany.” The band fed off the crowd’s energy throughout the night - that involved lots of mosh pits, dancing, jumping, and beer cups flying through the air. Before singing “What A Waste,” Doherty gave a heartfelt shout-out to someone he didn’t want to name, who has been clean for 16 years, including a message to people struggling with addiction.

Their unique stage design paid tribute to the hotel The Albion Rooms in Margate, which the band used to own and run. The place has now become a residential recording studio and private space. The backdrop added a nostalgic and unique touch to the shows, and so did the strings section, dressed in red military jackets, referencing the band’s past fashion choices.

Doherty and the band expressed their enthusiasm throughout the night, telling the audience how special it is to play in their hometown feeling an extra sense of connection to the audience. Overall, their shows in London felt like a celebration of home, an evening filled with both raw energy and heartfelt nostalgia. They ended the set with one of their biggest hits “Don’t Look Back Into the Sun.” The band’s performance was a true testament to their rock’n’roll spirit and showmanship.