Airbourne

Airbourne Live at Manchester Academy: Rock ‘n’ Roll Reignited!

Get ready to witness a thunderous eruption of pure, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll as the electrifying Airbourne descend upon Manchester Academy on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a full-throttle immersion into the heart of raw, high-octane live music. Airbourne are renowned for their relentless energy, infectious stage presence, and anthemic tracks that are tailor-made for singalongs and headbanging. Prepare for a night that will leave you breathless, exhilarated, and craving more. Manchester Academy, a legendary stomping ground for rock’s finest, is the perfect crucible for Airbourne’s explosive performance. This promises to be an unforgettable evening where the spirit of classic rock ‘n’ roll is not just celebrated, but vibrantly alive and kicking.

About Airbourne

Hailing from Warrnambool, Victoria, Australia, Airbourne burst onto the global music scene in the mid-2000s, carrying the torch for no-nonsense, high-energy hard rock. Formed by brothers Joel and Ryan O’Keeffe, alongside brothers Adam and Matt Young, the band quickly established themselves with their blistering sound and electrifying live shows. Their debut album, Runnin’ Wild (2007), immediately announced their arrival, showcasing a potent blend of AC/DC-esque riffs, Thin Lizzy-inspired melodies, and a raw, unbridled youthful exuberance. Tracks like the title track and the rollicking “Too Much, Too Fast” became instant fan favourites, hinting at the stadium-conquering potential that lay ahead.

Subsequent releases have seen Airbourne consistently deliver on their promise. No Guts. No Glory. (2010) further solidified their reputation with anthems like “Blonde, Bad and Beautiful” and “Self Destructive Kids (Nor Too Young To Rock)”. The band’s commitment to their sonic roots is unwavering, drawing inspiration from the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll while injecting their own unique brand of rebellious swagger. Their music is a visceral celebration of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle – fast cars, loud guitars, and living life to the absolute fullest. This dedication to authenticity has earned them a devoted global fanbase and a reputation as one of the most exciting live rock bands on the planet. Airbourne are not here to reinvent the wheel; they are here to prove that the wheel, when spun with enough power and passion, can still deliver an absolutely exhilarating ride. Their notable hits that consistently ignite crowds include the undeniable “Live It Up,” the defiant “Ready to Rock,” and the crowd-pleasing “Runnin’ Wild.”

Venue Information

Manchester Academy is a cornerstone of the UK’s live music circuit, boasting a rich history of hosting legendary performances from a diverse range of artists. With its intimate yet powerful atmosphere, the Academy provides an unparalleled setting for experiencing the raw energy of a band like Airbourne. Its dedicated sound system and staging ensure that every riff, every drumbeat, and every vocal roar is delivered with maximum impact. The venue’s commitment to providing an exceptional live music experience makes it the ideal choice for this high-octane rock show. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a no-holds-barred assault on the senses when Airbourne take the stage at Manchester Academy. Their live performance is an experience that transcends mere music; it’s a full-blown rock ‘n’ roll spectacle. Expect a setlist that leans heavily on their most electrifying anthems, designed to have the entire room singing along at the top of their lungs. You’ll hear crowd-pleasers like the irrepressible “Live It Up,” the rebellious “Ready to Rock,” and the thunderous “Runnin’ Wild,” all delivered with the ferocity and passion that have become their trademark. Expect them to dig deep into their catalogue, unearthing fan favourites and potentially even unleashing some surprises to keep the energy levels at fever pitch.

Airbourne’s performance style is nothing short of electrifying. Frontman Joel O’Keeffe is a force of nature, known for his boundless energy, daredevil stage antics, and his ability to connect with every single member of the audience. Whether he’s scaling the stage rigging, belting out lyrics with unparalleled grit, or engaging in exhilarating guitar solos, his commitment to delivering a show-stopping performance is unwavering. The rest of the band are equally dynamic, driving the music with a relentless, tight-knit rhythm section and searing guitar riffs. The sheer volume and sonic power of their performance are designed to envelop you, making you feel as though you are part of the rock ‘n’ roll explosion. A typical Airbourne show is a high-energy, adrenaline-fueled journey, usually clocking in at around 90 minutes to two hours of pure, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll bliss. Prepare for a sweat-drenched, ear-splitting, and utterly exhilarating night that will leave you feeling revitalised and buzzing long after the final chord has rung out.

FAQs

Q1: Will Airbourne play their biggest hits like “Live It Up” and “Runnin’ Wild”? Absolutely! Airbourne are renowned for delivering their most beloved anthems when they hit the stage. You can expect “Live It Up,” “Runnin’ Wild,” and “Ready to Rock” to be highlights of the night, guaranteed to get the entire Academy singing along.

Q2: What is Airbourne’s typical stage presence like? Airbourne’s live shows are legendary for their high energy and sheer spectacle. Frontman Joel O’Keeffe is a whirlwind of activity, often climbing speaker stacks, performing daring feats, and engaging directly with the crowd. The band’s overall performance is incredibly dynamic and visually engaging.

Q3: How long can I expect the Airbourne set to last? Typically, an Airbourne concert lasts between 90 minutes and two hours. They pack a tremendous amount of energy and hit songs into their performances, ensuring a full and satisfying rock ‘n’ roll experience.

Q4: Are Airbourne known for any particular stage show elements, like pyrotechnics or special effects? While their focus is primarily on raw musical power and energy, Airbourne’s shows are often amplified by a powerful visual presence. Expect an energetic light show that complements their high-octane performance. Their true “special effect” is the sheer force of their live sound and Joel’s electrifying stage persona.

Q5: Is Airbourne’s music suitable for all ages? Airbourne’s music is classic hard rock, characterised by loud guitars, powerful vocals, and anthemic choruses. While they don’t typically feature explicit lyrics, the themes are very much rooted in the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. It’s a high-energy show that appeals to fans of traditional rock music.

Q6: What should I wear to an Airbourne concert? Comfortable clothing that allows for movement is recommended, as you’ll likely be standing, dancing, and possibly jumping! Many fans opt for band t-shirts and casual wear that reflects their appreciation for rock music. The most important thing is to be ready to rock out!