On the evening of September 24, 2025, a devoted crowd gathered at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, their collective anticipation a quiet hum in the air. The occasion was Mac DeMarco’s stop on his “2025 World Tour,” an event for an audience well-versed in his unique musical style. The atmosphere was one of relaxed familiarity, a common thread in DeMarco’s live shows. As the lights dimmed and the stage came to life, the crowd prepared for an evening of the artist’s signature sounds, characterized by jangling guitars, laid-back vocals, and a lo-fi rock aesthetic.
The concert began with the tranquil tones of “Shining,” a gentle entry that set the pace for the night. The band then moved fluidly through a series of songs, with “For the First Time,” “Sweeter,” and “On the Level” creating a consistent sonic landscape. The setlist was a journey through DeMarco’s work, from his more introspective pieces to tracks that have become staples of his catalog. The band’s performance was a steady presence, providing a solid foundation for the music’s distinct character.
The set continued to unfold with a selection of tracks that explored different aspects of DeMarco’s songwriting. The band performed “Phantom” and “Salad Days,” immersing the audience in the sounds of his earlier material. This was followed by the mellow rhythm of “Punishment” and the instrumental piece “20200817 Proud True Toyota.” The overall mood of the performance remained casual and easy-going, with a seamless flow from one song to the next. The stage setup, with its minimalist approach, kept the focus on the music itself.
As the show progressed, the setlist revealed a mix of popular tunes and deeper cuts. The audience was presented with “Still Beating,” “Passing Out Pieces,” and “Home,” each song delivered with a straightforward execution. These tracks painted a clear picture of DeMarco’s lyrical and musical style. The crowd responded with quiet engagement, their collective energy a subtle pulse throughout the theatre. The band’s performance maintained its consistent rhythm, guiding the audience through the night.
The final stretch of the main set brought a discernible shift in the room’s energy as the band performed some of their more well-known songs. “Another One” and “Rooster” were included in the lineup, followed by the recognizable melodies of “Freaking Out the Neighborhood” and “Holy.” The performance built to its conclusion with “Moonlight on the River,” “My Kind of Woman,” and “Chamber of Reflection.” The crowd’s reaction was a clear indication of the songs’ familiarity and their connection with the audience.
The evening drew to a close with a single encore. Mac DeMarco and his band returned to the stage for a performance of “Nobody,” providing a final moment for the audience to absorb the music. The concert at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre was a comprehensive presentation of Mac DeMarco’s artistic style and a testament to the loyal following he has built over the course of his career.
