After battling through London traffic and getting stuck in endless queues, and a hiccup with my photo pass at security, I arrived just in time to miss the first support act of the night, The Meffs. They’re a band that I was super excited to see for this evening. Disappointed, sure, but the anticipation for what was to come was building.
Having seen Frank Turner 16 times before (my first being show 1286), I thought I knew exactly how the night would play out. But this time was different. Ten thousand fans packed into the iconic Alexandra Palace, celebrating not just 3000 shows, but the shared meaning behind them. Over two decades, Frank has kept a personal connection with his fans—whether that’s through responding to emails (yes, it’s really him behind those messages), or chatting with fans after shows. It’s these genuine interactions along with his honest lyrics and unique ability to sing about how you once felt that have fostered such a dedicated, loyal fanbase.
For me, Frank Turner’s music has been a soundtrack to countless memories, good and bad so being there, surrounded by so many like-minded people who’ve experienced the same highs and lows through his songs, made this night unforgettable.
Anyway, back to the show! The Lottery Winners took to the stage first, and it’s obvious these guys and girls are going to be huge! If you don’t know them by now, it won’t be long until you do! The Lottery Winners have had a whirlwind couple of years, including a number 1 album, a tour with Nickelback, and now supporting Frank Turner for Show #3000! Their set was fun, energetic, and addictive. The perfect choice of supporting act. They’ve been on repeat at my place since the show. The standout moment for me was “Turn Around,” where they had what seemed like the entire crowd following a dance routine—including some of the photographers and press in the pit (myself included!). I think it is clear that The Lottery Winners could have played for the rest of the evening as the headline act and it wouldn’t have felt out of place.
During the intermission, I wanted to grab a beer and a t-shirt but it felt like there were more than 10,000 people in the queue. But, despite the chaos, the anticipation was undeniable and as soon as Frank and his band hit the stage, everything else faded into the background.
Then, it was time. Frank Turner stepped onto the stage for show number 3000, a somewhat ridiculous, awe-inspiring feat of endurance, especially for a man who plays every gig like it’s his last. The show started with a counter on the screen, counting up from 0 to 3000 to signify the importance of every show leading up to tonight. As the counter hit 3000, Frank Turner took the stage and kicked things off solo with “The Ballad of Me and My Friends,” before jumping straight into “I Knew Prufrock Before He Got Famous”—my personal favourite. Somehow, just a man and his acoustic guitar filled the entire room, and it felt like the crowd erupted. The Sleeping Souls took the stage, joining Frank Turner for a crowd favourite, “I Still Believe,” before launching into “Do One.” Between the two songs, Frank took a moment to remind us of the two golden rules of every show: 1) Don’t be a dickhead, and 2) If you know the words, sing along. This is one of the reasons a Frank Turner show is an inclusive and safe space for all.
I think this is a good time to give a special mention to The Sleeping Souls. The band is formed of Ben Lloyd on guitar and electric mandolin, Matt Nasir on keys, Tarrant Anderson on bass (recently trusted with a microphone!), and the newest member, Callum Green on drums. A musically gifted, high-energy asset to the show. Whilst most of the band had played arena shows before with Frank, it was noted that this was Callum’s biggest headline set to date- although, during some on-stage banter between songs, we did learn that he did once open for Sting!
The setlist for tonight was 25 songs strong and included songs that spanned Frank Turner's long career, from earlier tracks such as “I am Disappeared” and “Try this at Home” to more recent songs from “Undefeated”, his latest album.
A standout moment for me was “Somewhere Inbetween,” a song that resonates deeply with me. The song is about finding your place in the world, navigating the space between who you were, who you are, and who you want to become. It’s a beautiful reflection on those moments in life when you feel lost or uncertain but also hopeful that you’re moving in the right direction. In the context of this milestone show, it felt even more poignant, as it’s a perfect representation of Frank’s journey over the last two decades—constantly evolving, always searching, but never losing sight of the things that matter most.
Next came three solo songs: “The Road,” “Long Live The Queen,” and “Be More Kind.” Each of these songs carries its own weight and message. “The Road” always hits hard, with its reflection on life’s unpredictability and the journey we all go on. “Long Live The Queen”, dedicated to a fan named Daisy who had sadly lost her life to cancer, had an anthemic, bittersweet quality, capturing both the fragility and strength of those who have shaped us. And then “Be More Kind”—a message that feels more relevant than ever, a call for compassion and understanding in a world that sometimes feels overwhelmed by division. Hearing them in this setting, solo, felt intimate yet powerful with a mix of the crowd singing along or taking a moment of reflection amongst a sea of lights from 10,000 phones.
The main set wrapped up with “Photosynthesis,” a true anthem of empowerment to really live life. The crowd was electric, singing every word with a passion that made it feel like a collective declaration of defiance. Whilst this was the last song in the main set, it was clear that the crowd wanted more!
The encore comprised four songs: “Undefeated”, “Polaroid Picture”, “Get Better,” and “Four Simple Words.” It felt like a final celebration, one that was more than earned. By the time “Four Simple Words” hit, Ally Pally had its roof torn off! The crowd throughout the night was electric, enthusiastic and fully committed, taking on their role as backing singers with unrelenting energy.
Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls are one of the best, if not the best, bands I have had the pleasure of seeing live. Every show is a 10/10 in effort and energy but, somehow, they had even more to give. Here is to the next 3000 shows!
