Bad Manners

Get Ready to Skank! Bad Manners Live at O2 Forum Kentish Town, London

Dust off your finest pork pie hat and prepare for a night of unadulterated ska-punk mayhem, because the legendary Bad Manners are taking over the iconic O2 Forum Kentish Town in London on Thursday, 18th December 2025! This isn’t just another gig; it’s a full-blown carnival of infectious energy, singalong anthems, and the inimitable stage presence of Buster Bloodvessel and his band. If you’re looking for a night that will inject pure, unadulterated fun directly into your soul, look no further. Bad Manners are renowned for their electrifying live shows, and to witness them in the vibrant setting of the O2 Forum Kentish Town promises to be an unforgettable experience, a true celebration of ska’s enduring spirit and the band’s unparalleled legacy. Get ready to jump, shout, and skank your way through a history of British ska at its absolute finest.

About Bad Manners

For decades, Bad Manners have been synonymous with irreverent fun, high-octane live performances, and a sound that has soundtracked countless good times. Formed in London in 1976, amidst the burgeoning two-tone ska revival, the band quickly carved out their own distinctive niche. Led by the larger-than-life personality of Buster Bloodvessel (Douglas Trendle), Bad Manners exploded onto the scene with their infectious blend of traditional ska rhythms, punk rock energy, and a healthy dose of cheeky humour. Their early success was cemented by a string of chart-friendly singles and albums that showcased their unique brand of boisterous entertainment.

What sets Bad Manners apart is their unwavering commitment to pure, unadulterated enjoyment. They are not a band for subtlety; they are a joyous explosion of sound and spectacle. Buster himself is a genuine showman, a whirlwind of energy who commands the stage with his booming vocals, larger-than-life persona, and infectious enthusiasm. His interactions with the audience are legendary, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared celebration that is rarely found elsewhere.

Throughout their career, Bad Manners have released a substantial catalogue of music, consistently delivering a sound that is instantly recognisable. Their notable hits are etched into the annals of British music history, anthems that still resonate with crowds today. Tracks like “Special Brew,” a joyous ode to a certain fizzy drink, became an instant crowd-pleaser, its catchy chorus guaranteed to get everyone singing along. “Lip Up Fatty” is another classic, a defiant declaration of self-acceptance delivered with swagger and a driving ska beat. Then there’s the iconic “Can Can,” their rollicking, high-energy rendition of Offenbach’s famous work, which perfectly encapsulates their playful spirit and ability to reinvent familiar tunes with their own unique flavour. Other fan favourites include the anthemic “Ne-Ne-Na-Na-Na-Na-Nu-Nu” and the powerful “Billy Boys,” all showcasing their ability to blend serious musicianship with a lighthearted, party-starting attitude. Bad Manners are more than just a band; they are a cultural phenomenon, a testament to the enduring power of ska music and the electrifying joy of a live performance.

Venue Information

The O2 Forum Kentish Town is a historic and much-loved music venue situated in the heart of North London. With a capacity that allows for an intimate yet energetic atmosphere, it has played host to countless legendary artists across a multitude of genres. Its art deco charm and excellent acoustics provide the perfect backdrop for a night of energetic ska music. Expect a vibrant crowd and a fantastic sound system that will ensure every note and every beat hits home.

For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a whirlwind of pure, unadulterated ska exuberance! A Bad Manners show is not for the faint-hearted; it’s a full-body experience designed to leave you exhilarated, breathless, and grinning from ear to ear. The setlist will undoubtedly be a carefully curated journey through their extensive back catalogue, a generous helping of those beloved hits that have defined British ska for generations. Expect to hear the anthemic choruses of “Special Brew” and “Lip Up Fatty” ringing out, prompting mass singalongs and enthusiastic skanking. You can be sure that their riotous rendition of “Can Can” will descend upon the audience like a joyous musical hurricane, an explosion of energy and fun.

Beyond the anthems, Bad Manners are celebrated for their dynamic performance style. Buster Bloodvessel is the undeniable focal point, a charismatic showman who prowls the stage with infectious energy. He’s known for his engaging banter with the crowd, his flamboyant stage presence, and his ability to connect with every single person in the room. The band, a tight-knit unit of seasoned musicians, provides the driving, infectious ska rhythms that form the backbone of their sound. Expect intricate horn sections, a propulsive rhythm section, and a relentless pace that encourages movement. The atmosphere will be electric, a palpable sense of shared enjoyment and celebration. This is a gig where the audience is as much a part of the performance as the band themselves. The show is typically a high-energy affair, clocking in at around 90 minutes to two hours of continuous musical revelry, leaving you with ringing ears and a heart full of ska spirit.

FAQs

Q1: Will Buster Bloodvessel be performing with the band? Absolutely! Buster Bloodvessel is the inimitable frontman of Bad Manners, and his presence is synonymous with their legendary live shows. You can expect his signature high energy and captivating stage presence.

Q2: What kind of music can I expect Bad Manners to play? Bad Manners are pioneers of the British ska scene. Their music is a high-energy blend of traditional ska rhythms, punk rock attitude, and a generous dose of humour. Expect their classic hits, singalong anthems, and plenty of infectious ska energy.

Q3: Is this a standing gig at the O2 Forum Kentish Town? The O2 Forum Kentish Town typically operates with a standing general admission area for its live music events. This is ideal for enjoying the energetic atmosphere and for those who want to skank along to the music.

Q4: Can I expect any of their big hits to be played? You can absolutely count on hearing Bad Manners’ most beloved hits! Anthems like “Special Brew,” “Lip Up Fatty,” and their iconic take on “Can Can” are staples of their live setlist and guaranteed to get the crowd roaring.

Q5: How long is the typical Bad Manners set? Bad Manners are known for delivering full-throttle performances. You can generally expect their set to last for approximately 90 minutes to two hours, packed with hit after hit and non-stop entertainment.

Q6: Are there any age restrictions for this event? As a general rule for O2 Forum Kentish Town events, attendees must be 18 years or older. Please check the specific event details for confirmation, but it’s advisable to assume this restriction applies.