Danish alt-rock pioneers Mew have officially concluded their illustrious 30-year journey, delivering a poignant farewell performance at London’s iconic Roundhouse. The band, who confirmed their split in 2024, wrapped up their career to an emotional crowd, leaving fans with an unforgettable final memory.
Initially slated for Copenhagen's Royal Arena in May 2025, additional dates led to the London venue hosting the band's last-ever show. The setlist was a comprehensive journey through their acclaimed discography, culminating with the fan-favourite anthem, 'Comforting Sounds'.
A Legacy Etched in Sound
Mew's departure marks the end of an era for a band celebrated for its unique blend of progressive rock, shoegaze, and dream-pop. Their distinct sound, characterized by Jonas Bjerre's ethereal vocals and intricate musical arrangements, carved out a niche that few have replicated.
The band's influence, particularly through albums like 'Frengers' and 'And the Glass Handed Kites', has resonated deeply within the alt-rock landscape. Their ability to craft sweeping, cinematic soundscapes alongside intimate, introspective moments has garnered them a dedicated global fanbase, affectionately known as 'Frengers'. Their final curtain call at the Roundhouse underscores a significant moment, as they join the ranks of influential bands whose unique artistic visions continue to inspire long after their final notes fade.
Renowned producer Rich Costey, who collaborated with Mew on their seminal 'Frengers' LP, was in attendance, sharing a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. He reflected on the band's magic, stating: “A very special and bittersweet evening at The Roundhouse in London as Danish band Mew play their final show with singer Jonas Bjerre. A long time ago I was brought in to produce them – my first major label production- because they were fans of The Swirlies, who were actually my first production.”
Costey continued, praising their creative spirit: “My memory of that process is nothing but good, partly due to their interest in adventure but also their goodness as people. Hard to explain but there’s just some magic about them. I’m sad to see this chapter go, but also thrilled that it even happened in the first place. We worked on many other things together and they never lost their ability to cast a spell. Thank you, Jonas, Johan, Silas and yes Bo.”
The emotional setlist at the Roundhouse included: 'Reprise', 'Satellites', 'Special', 'The Zookeeper’s Boy', 'Circuitry Of The Wolf', 'Chinaberry Tree', 'Then I Run', 'Gliding', 'Ay Ay Ay', 'Snow Brigade', 'Symmetry', '156', 'Apocalypso', 'Saviours Of Jazz Ballet', 'She Spider', 'Rows'. The encore featured: 'Introducing Palace Players', 'I Should Have Been A Tsin-Tsi (For You)', 'Am I Wry? No', and the climactic 'Comforting Sounds'.
Upon announcing their breakup, the band released a joint statement to their fans: “Frengers, we are beyond excited to play these shows as they mark a truly exceptional occasion for us, for you and for Mew. Johan, Silas, Jonas.”
Frontman Jonas Bjerre shared his personal reflections on the band's 30th anniversary: “Dearest Frengers, Next year marks the 30th anniversary of Mew! It’s been quite a journey, that’s brought me and my lovely band mates on countless adventures, for which I am eternally grateful. And none of it could have happened if not for you Frengers and your support. This is something I’ve never taken for granted, and never will.”
Bjerre also confirmed his departure for new creative ventures: “For me, this journey will be coming to an end. Next year will be my last year with Mew. I have come to the realisation that it’s time for me personally to embark on a different journey, and focus on other creative projects. I am so happy that we get to play these farewell shows, and that I get to go on one last trip with my dear friends and co-founders Johan and Silas, as well as the Doc and Mads Wegner.”
The collective sentiment from the bandmates on their three decades together was one of gratitude and wonder: “Nobody in their right mind would have imagined us still being here back in 1995, when we started out, making noise in Jonas’ teenage bedroom. But we did! Maybe we were out of our minds, on a mission. We dared to dream, and dream big together.”
