The Libertines at Gunnersbury Park

On a balmy summer London evening, Gunnersbury Park transformed into a spectacle of rock’n’roll nostalgia. As the sun cast a warm golden hue over the surrounding greenery, The Libertines took to the stage, igniting the long-lost beloved flame of indie sleaze that dominated the noughties. The fervour among a sea of devoted fans was undeniable as the charismatic pioneers of heroin chic, Pete Doherty and Carl Barât, wasted no time in diving into their set. They emerged from the ashes of the hipster punk era with their raucous anthem Up the Bracket.

From that precise moment, an eruption of cheers pulsed throughout the crowd – a testament to the enduring legacy of this iconic British rock band. The chemistry between Doherty and Barât was palpable; a combination of playful banter and unapologetic camaraderie created an intimacy that birthed an immersive rush of pure joy.

The setlist was a meticulously curated blend of their greatest hits that included Can’t Stand Me Now, What a Waster and Time for Heroes. They also managed to interweave tracks from their 2024 studio album, All Quiet on the Easter Esplanade, including Merry Old England and Run Run Run, that didn’t hit as hard as the golden oldies. The crowd sang along with an unrestrained zeal, turning the stage into a post-punk noughties revival.

Known for their raw, unpolished, gritty instrumentation and conversational lyricism, as well as hedonism for the disillusioned youth, The Libertines literally struck many chords, evoking a fleeting yet beloved past of dishevelled-chic bohemian glamour that died around 2010. The set design captured the period so vividly, it was as though a time machine had been used to curate the gratifying visuals. Magenta lights danced across the audience, creating a kaleidoscope of psychedelia that enveloped the audience in a sonic embrace. 

As the evening progressed, the infamous garage rock band took a moment to share anecdotes on fame, friendship and songwriting since the group formed in 1997. Doherty’s uncensored candour and Barât’s more reserved demeanour provided a perfect counterbalance of humour and engagement that was well received.

The highlight of the night was no doubt the encore, when the band performed Don’t Look Back Into the Sun. The atmosphere shifted, and a strong wave of kinship swept through the crowd as fans wrapped their arms around one another, singing in unison. It was a moment of pure euphoria, a collective experience that encapsulated the essence of live music and a renewed sense of connection that transcends time, space and any smartphone. Despite tending a dead genre, The Libertines proved their edgy rebellion spirit resists and persists against all odds.

Nina Doroushi
Photos: Mike Massaro/Hello Content

For further information and future events, visit The Libertines’s website here.

Watch the video for Merry Old England here: