Pet Shop Boys Turn Cardiff Castle Into a Synth-Pop Spectacle

The Pet Shop Boys brought their iconic style and timeless sound to Cardiff Castle, and it was an impressive performance that sounded as good today as it ever has. As part of the Tkmaxx Depot Live Summer Sessions, the legendary duo transformed the historic venue into a glowing celebration of synth-pop, packed with hits, lights, and pure nostalgia.

Before Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe took the stage, dance legend Dave Pearce warmed up the crowd with a set full of throwback bangers. Shouting out classic Welsh club nights like Timeflies and Escape in Swansea, he dedicated his set “to the ravers,” taking many of us straight back to the golden days of 90s club and culture and he felt right at home playing a sunset like he always has.

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Then, as the sun dropped behind the castle walls, the Pet Shop Boys appeared — Chris cool and understated behind the keys, Neil effortlessly commanding the stage. They wasted no time launching into their biggest tracks, from Suburbia and Go West to It’s a Sin, Domino Dancing, and of course, West End Girls. Each song was delivered with precision and presence, reminding everyone why this duo still commands festival stages across the world.

Visually, the show was a feast. Lasers lit up the castle, huge projections moved with the music, and their signature costume changes added flair to every section of the set. The crowd, spanning generations, was fully invested — dancing, singing, and soaking up every moment.

By the time they reached Always on My Mind and Being Boring, the entire audience was on their feet. Cardiff Castle proved the perfect backdrop for a band whose music is both timeless and still thrilling to see live.

A truly unforgettable night — and a reminder that few acts do live shows quite like the Pet Shop Boys.