Fat Dog are no strangers to Nottingham's bigger venues. But how would their trade mark chaotic energy translate to the more intimate setting of Rough Trade's upstairs room? While the moshing was more restricted, we discovered endless dancing, plenty of energy and a room full of people who had come for the same reason: to feel alive through the power of music...
Fat Dog's latest tour comes as they release their second album, Cancel Me (I’m Tired), at the beginning of the month. From the moment I first listened to it, I was amazed by the diversity of sounds and genres across the record, from the instruments and production to the different vocal styles.
Having already played a matinée show earlier in the day, I knew the band would probably not be delivering their full setlist or too many surprises from their older material. Still, I couldn’t help but feel a little sad not to hear Snakes live. I guess I’ll just have to wait until the next gig. Instead, we were treated to Smile and Wave, S**t Love, Show Me the Way, Call It What You Want, Go F**k Urself, The Devil, Aliens and Bad Dog, before they brought the set to a close with one of their most popular tracks, Running.
One of the things I will always remember about Fat Dog is how they make the barrier between the band and the crowd feel almost non existent. Joe Love, frontman of the British electro-punk band, even ventured into the audience to sing, getting everyone to crouch down before jumping into the air alongside the crowd.
It felt less like watching a band perform and more like being part of a gathering of friends who had come together to sing, dance and have a brilliant time. The audience wasn't simply watching the performance unfold; they were part of it.
And speaking of singing, Go F**k Urself was definitely one of my highlights. Having spent the days leading up to the gig singing it, I was more than happy when it finally came on. I did feel a little sorry for my boyfriend, though, who had to put up with me singing it back at him throughout the concert (with love, of course).
It felt less like watching a band perform and more like being part of a gathering of friends
Fat Dog are one of those bands you know you are going to have a good time watching. Your feet won' stop moving, you will probably leave with a smile on your face and, if you've been dancing as much as I have, a couple of sweat drops.
Seeing them in a smaller venue was an interesting experience. I still believe Fat Dog were made to command bigger crowds, where people can jump around without worrying about crushing the person standing next to them. There is something about their music that seems to demand that kind of space and collective chaos. But there was also something special about being able to see such an energetic band up close, before they sat down to interact with the audience during the signing. It was a reminder that, beyond the noise, the lights and the movement, there are real people behind the music, connecting with the people who listen to it.
From the lighting and sound to the bar staff and everyone involved in putting the gig together, a big thank you is deserved for making it such a memorable night. Fat Dog certainly left their mark on Rough Trade and, judging by the smiles and dancing around me, on the memories of everyone in the room, too.
Fat Dog performed at Rough Trade Nottingham on 6 October 2026
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