Barry Can’t Swim, the fast-rising DJ and producer from Scotland, concluded his West Coast mini-tour with a pair of packed performances at Los Angeles’ iconic Shrine. The events were so successful that the first show sold out, prompting a second night to meet demand. His growing fanbase eagerly welcomed his unique performance style, and the anticipation was heightened by his upcoming appearance at Bonnaroo.
Stunning Visuals, Seamless Transitions, and High-Energy Vibes Filled The Shrine’s Cavernous Space
The Shrine, known for its cavernous space, proved to be the perfect setting for Barry Can’t Swim’s electrifying set. The venue’s sound system was impeccably balanced, ensuring the music filled the room while accompanying visual effects, including an impressive laser and light show, created an immersive atmosphere. Barry Can’t Swim’s performance not only impressed musically but also visually, providing fans with a sensory overload that was executed to perfection.

One of the challenges of a DJ performance is ensuring the set flows smoothly, maintaining both energy and cohesion. Barry Can’t Swim, aka Joshua Spence Mainnie, succeeded on this front by effortlessly blending tracks into a tightly-woven set. The choreography of the event was expertly managed, with fans enthusiastically dancing to the seamless transitions, creating a vibrant, high-energy vibe that left the audience enthralled.
Blending Live Instruments and DJ Mastery for a Genre-Defying, Immersive Musical Experience
What sets Barry Can’t Swim apart from typical DJs is his unique setup. While many DJs perform solo, Mainnie’s stage presence is more akin to that of a full band. He incorporates live instruments, including a drummer, keyboards, and even a string section, which enriches the performance and sets him apart from other electronic acts. This combination of live musicianship with DJ skills allows his music to transcend genres, mixing jazz, house, afrobeat, and shoegazer influences into a distinctive sound that appeals to a wide range of listeners.
Fans who attended the performances were treated to a preview of Barry Can’t Swim’s upcoming album, Loner, due for release on July 11th under the Ninja Tune label. The new material hints at the continued evolution of his sound, blending his DJ roots with live instrumentation in exciting new ways. With the album release on the horizon and a growing fanbase, Barry Can’t Swim is poised for even greater success in the months ahead.