Enter Shikari: Live at O2 Academy Birmingham
It was a rather miserable Friday night in Birmingham, on 6th December, when the O2 Academy was set ablaze with the electrifying energy of Enter Shikari. Supported by rising American alt-rock band Teenage Wrist, the atmosphere in the venue was palpable from the second the doors opened.
NOAHFINNCE: Live at XOYO, Birmingham
On November 7th, NOAHFINNCE brought his autumn UK headline tour to Birmingham and the evening proved to be not only an electrifying pop-punk experience, but a celebration of both talent and inclusivity in the music scene, as the show commenced with sensational support from South Arcade and featured special guest Taylor Acorn.
Ice Spice: “Y2K Tour” at Birmingham’s O2 Institute
After briefly postponing the date and switching venues, Ice Spice brought her energetic energy and catchy hits to Birmingham’s O2 Institute on 5th November for the final show on the UK leg of her “Y2K World Tour”. The concert was originally supposed to take place nearby at the O2 Academy but, due to the rapper having to change plans and attend a Fortnite event in her hometown of New York City, the venue was altered. The venue change was not an issue for me personally, as I always appreciate how much character the venue possesses and how grand the interior feels, and the alteration meant I could experience the main room of the O2 Institute after first attending an intimate gig in the venue’s ground floor room earlier this year.
SOFT PLAY Live at O2 Institute Birmingham
SOFT PLAY's recent Birmingham show at the O2 Institute on 18th October, supported by Wonk Unit and Panic Shack, was an exhilarating night that perfectly encapsulated the raw energy and spirit of live punk music.
Mallory Knox’s Return to Birmingham After 6 Year Hiatus
Mallory Knox's Birmingham show on 16 October was an electrifying return for the English alternative rock band after a six-year hiatus, and the energy in the room was palpable. The night kicked off with HRTLSS, a British rock/emo artist who set a solid tone for the evening, but it was electro-rockers Call Me Amour who followed that left a bit to be desired. Despite their best efforts, including engaging with the crowd from the barrier, the audience seemed somewhat subdued. Perhaps the dreary weather outside had dulled the spirits of the attendees, but it was evident that they were waiting for something to ignite the night.
Punk Rock Factory ‘Stick To The Covers’ Tour in Birmingham 2024
Bringing their signature brand of high-energy, humour-filled pop-punk/alt rock covers, Punk Rock Factory tore the roof off of Birmingham's O2 Institute on 11 October. Wolves of Glendale kicked off the night with their unique blend of comedy and rock, proving to be the perfect opener for Punk Rock Factory's light-hearted, nostalgic vibe. Their crowd interaction, particularly the wild mashups they created from audience requests, had the room howling with laughter and fully invested in the madness. By the time Punk Rock Factory hit the stage, the crowd was already buzzing, primed for the main event.
Stand Atlantic: Live in Birmingham - 2024
Stand Atlantic's sold-out Birmingham show was a night of unrelenting energy, crowd interaction and genre-blurring performances that left fans buzzing. With support from Slowly Slowly and Honey Revenge, the night was stacked with talent, setting the stage for Stand Atlantic's explosive headlining set.
Noah Kahan - ‘Stick Season’ Tour
After first seeing Noah Kahan supporting Dermot Kennedy in April 2023, it has been incredible to witness his career soar as quickly as it has but it’s not surprising in the slightest, considering the immense talent he possesses. On 20th August 2024, Birmingham’s Utilita Arena was packed to the brim as fans rapidly filled the arena to see the folk-pop musician live in the flesh, and what an exceptional night his fans were in for!
Thirty Seconds To Mars ‘Seasons’ Tour
Thirty Seconds To Mars, comprised of brothers Jared and Shannon Leto, delivered an unforgettable performance at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham on June 9, 2024, as part of their Seasons World Tour. The two-hour set featured 18 songs, including acoustic renditions, with dramatic pyrotechnics and crowd interactions. Fans, some of whom waited due to rescheduled shows, enjoyed a mix of new tracks and nostalgic hits like "Kings and Queens" and "The Kill." Jared’s close interactions, including a walk through the crowd and inviting fans on stage, made the night special. Highlights included a touching acoustic segment, a crowd-lit rendition of "City of Angels," and a grand finale with fans on stage. This concert showcased the band's humility, engagement, and musical prowess, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.