An exhilarating energy filled the air at Market Hotel in Bushwick, Brooklyn, as fans packed into the intimate venue on March 31, 2025. Wet Leg, the Isle of Wight duo who shot to fame with their 2022 debut album, brought a blend of anticipation and nostalgia as they previewed their new material. Did you know that they achieved the remarkable feat of selling out larger venues within just a few years of their debut? The band, known for their infectious single “Chaise Longue,” has managed to balance their ascent with the challenge of meeting fan expectations while crafting a follow-up album. This latest performance not only celebrated their past hits but also offered a glimpse into their musical evolution, marking the dawn of “Wet Leg 2.0.”
Wet Leg burst onto the music scene in July 2022 with their self-titled debut album, which was met with critical acclaim and widespread commercial success. The album showcased their eclectic sound characterized by witty lyrics and catchy hooks, with tracks like “Chaise Longue” and “Wet Dream” taking the indie scene by storm. Their rise to stardom was a blend of twee charm and a punk ethos that resonated with a generation eager for authenticity.
Originating from a small island off the southern coast of England, Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers crafted their sound, blending various influences from 90s indie rock to post-punk, resulting in a distinct musical identity that eclipsed their humble beginnings. As they prepare to unveil their anticipated second album, the question remains—can they capture their audience once again with a new sound while maintaining their spirited essence?
Inside Market Hotel, the atmosphere was electric, buzzing with excitement and anxiety. The venue, often described as intimate yet chaotic, had fans shoulder to shoulder, setting the scene for a memorable night. As the clock struck 9 PM, Wet Leg took the stage, clad in chic white outfits—a subtle departure from their earlier prairie dress aesthetic that fans had come to recognize.
Opening with the punchy “Catch These Fists,” the band wasted no time in re-establishing their presence. Teasdale, who performed sans guitar for most of the evening, channeled an infectious charisma as she commanded the stage. The setlist featured a healthy mix of six new tracks melding with favorites from their debut, allowing fans to immerse themselves in an unfiltered celebration of Wet Leg’s sonic journey.
Setlist from Market Hotel, March 31, 2025:
Music enthusiasts showed their appreciation for the unfolding new sound—though familiar favorites like “Chaise Longue” ignited the crowd into rapture, showcasing how deeply their debut resonated with fans.
The new tracks highlighted at Market Hotel signal a notable evolution in Wet Leg's artistry. Songs like “Lovestruck” and “Beans” showcased catchy hooks and innovative song structures, underpinning the band's ability to adapt without straying too far from their roots. Another highlight, “Dragonfart,” marked a more audacious, harder rocking sound, pivoting towards a fresh direction that retains the witty lyricism they are known for.
“We're back!” Teasdale seemed to say with every engaging moment, both in new songs and signature hits. The performance was enhanced by the use of lighting and sound design that complemented their new rock-infused style without overshadowing their performance.
Despite the venue's cramped setting, the crowd was euphoric, their energy aptly reflecting Wet Leg's on-stage charisma. The physical space served as its own character; fans danced and clapped, with palpable excitement sinking into the walls of Market Hotel. Their enthusiasm crescendoed at well-loved tracks—especially during “Chaise Longue” and “Wet Dream,” where the floor of the venue nearly buckled under the collective energy of stage-divers and eager fans.
While the band navigated through their set—with moments of humor and playfulness—there was a notable attempt at stage diving that didn’t quite land successfully, encapsulating the thrilling chaos of live music performances.
Opening for Wet Leg was the budding British band, Mary in the Junkyard, who provided a fitting prelude to the main act with their own eclectic sound. Having made the journey to the U.S. following their performance at SXSW, the band’s charmingly shambolic indie rock enabled the audience to warm up for the headline event. Their energetic performance set the tone for the night, showcasing new voices in the UK music scene.
Heavy speculation surrounded Wet Leg's performance, particularly about their forthcoming album—still untitled—set to follow their critically acclaimed debut. While details remained under wraps, hints dropped during the NYC show hinted at a diversifying musical landscape that fans can expect. As the band gains traction in their second chapter, they are set to face the challenge of maintaining the originality that captured hearts and imaginations the first time around, while also growing and evolving in new directions.
As Wet Leg embarks on this exciting new phase, both fans and critics alike will be watching closely. The intimate setting of Market Hotel served not only as a venue for their performance but also as a vessel for community and connection—a reminder of why we gather together for music. With their new single officially released and a slew of shows lined up, the stage is set for Wet Leg to continue their ascent in the indie music world and leave an indelible mark on their audience.
While an official release date has not yet been announced, it is expected to drop later in 2025.
Wet Leg captured widespread attention with their debut single “Chaise Longue,” which quickly became an anthem in 2022, followed by their self-titled debut album that received critical acclaim.
The new material teased at the Brooklyn show indicates a diversification in sound, with elements of rock emerging, alongside their signature wit and catchy melodies.
Yes, Wet Leg is slated for additional intimate shows across the U.S., including stops in Los Angeles to promote their new single and upcoming album.
The young UK band Mary in the Junkyard opened for Wet Leg, showcasing their own unique style that complemented Wet Leg’s performance.
Wet Leg's live performances have shifted towards a more confident stage presence, marked by an energetic and engaging interaction with fans, as evident from Rhian Teasdale's commanding performance during the show.
As Wet Leg prepares to release their second album, the anticipation is palpable among the fans. The Brooklyn show was not just a concert; it was a celebration of music, creativity, and the collective experience that live performances foster, leaving attendees eagerly awaiting what Wet Leg has in store next.