Bad Manners

Bad Manners Live at The 1865, Southampton!

Get ready to skank, shout, and sing your heart out because the legendary Bad Manners are stomping into The 1865 in Southampton on Thursday, 11 December 2025! This isn’t just another gig; it’s an experience, a full-blown carnival of ska energy that will leave you buzzing. Prepare for an evening where the music is infectious, the atmosphere is electric, and Buster Bloodvessel and his merry band of chaos-makers deliver a performance that’s as unpredictable as it is undeniably brilliant. If you’ve ever wanted to witness the pure, unadulterated joy of live ska music, then this is your chance. Don’t miss out on a night that promises to be a true testament to the enduring power and sheer fun of Bad Manners.

About Bad Manners

For over four decades, Bad Manners have been a pulsating force in the ska scene, a vibrant testament to the genre’s enduring appeal. Fronted by the larger-than-life Buster Bloodvessel, a man whose stage presence is as monumental as his vocal talent, the band burst onto the scene in the late 1970s as part of the 2 Tone ska revival. Their music is a potent cocktail of infectious rhythms, driving horns, and Buster’s distinctive, booming vocals, laced with a healthy dose of cheeky humour and social commentary.

Their early releases, including debut album Ska ‘n’ B (1980), cemented their reputation for high-energy live shows and a string of memorable singles. Hits like “Ne-Ne Na-Na Na-Na Nu-Nu” became anthems, showcasing their ability to blend traditional ska sounds with punk’s raw energy and a unique British sensibility. They followed this success with further chart-friendly tunes such as “Lip Up Fatty,” “Lorraine,” and the enduringly popular “Special Brew,” a track that has become synonymous with good times and a cold pint.

Bad Manners have weathered musical trends and changing times with an unwavering commitment to their sound and their fans. They are renowned for their electrifying stage performances, which are less concerts and more riotous celebrations. Buster Bloodvessel, often adorned in his trademark flamboyant attire, is a master of audience interaction, his powerful voice leading the charge while his boundless energy sweeps everyone up in the infectious merriment. Their discography boasts numerous albums, each reflecting their consistent dedication to delivering energetic ska that consistently gets people moving. From their origins in the thriving 2 Tone era to their continued relevance today, Bad Manners remain a vital and exciting proposition for any music lover seeking pure, unadulterated fun.

Venue Information

The 1865 is Southampton’s premier live music venue, renowned for its intimate atmosphere and dedication to bringing a diverse range of acts to the city. With a state-of-the-art sound system and a capacity designed for up-close and personal performances, it’s the perfect setting for a night of high-octane ska. You’ll be right in the heart of the action, feeling every beat and every horn blast as Bad Manners take to the stage. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a sonic and visual spectacle when Bad Manners descend upon The 1865. This isn’t a band that does subtle; this is a full-throttle, no-holds-barred ska explosion. You can expect a setlist that cherry-picks from their illustrious career, delivering all the anthems you know and love, alongside some deeper cuts that will have seasoned fans roaring with delight. Hits like “Special Brew,” “Lip Up Fatty,” and the universally recognised “Ne-Ne Na-Na Na-Na Nu-Nu” are practically guaranteed to have the entire venue singing along at the top of their lungs.

Buster Bloodvessel is the undisputed ringmaster of this musical circus. His commanding stage presence, coupled with his distinctive vocal delivery, is captivating. He’s not one to stand still; expect him to prowl the stage, engage directly with the audience, and embody the very spirit of ska rebellion and revelry. The band itself is a formidable unit, a tight-knit group of musicians whose brass section cuts through the air with precision and power, laying down the infectious rhythms that are the very bedrock of ska.

The performance style is unashamedly energetic. This is music designed to make you move. The characteristic off-beat guitar rhythms, the driving basslines, and the insistent pulse of the drums create an irresistible urge to skank, jump, and dance. Bad Manners have perfected the art of the live show over decades, and it’s this experience that shines through. They understand how to build the energy of the room, taking the audience on a journey from anticipation to euphoric release. While exact set times can vary, a Bad Manners gig is typically a substantial offering, usually running for a good hour and a half, if not more, ensuring you get your fill of their joyous sound. Expect a few surprises too, as Buster is known for his spontaneous interactions and unpredictable stage antics. This is a night where the music, the energy, and the sheer fun of it all combine to create something truly memorable.

FAQs

Q1: Will Buster Bloodvessel be on stage with Bad Manners? Absolutely! Buster Bloodvessel is the iconic frontman of Bad Manners and is as integral to the band’s identity as ever. You can expect him to be leading the charge from the front, delivering his powerful vocals and commanding presence.

Q2: What kind of music can I expect from Bad Manners? Bad Manners are pioneers of the ska genre. Their music is a high-energy blend of ska, 2 Tone, and punk influences, characterised by infectious horn sections, driving basslines, and Buster Bloodvessel’s distinctive vocals. Expect plenty of upbeat tunes designed to get you dancing.

Q3: Are Bad Manners known for their live performances? Yes, Bad Manners are legendary for their electrifying and chaotic live shows. They are renowned for their energetic performances, Buster Bloodvessel’s larger-than-life stage presence, and their ability to create a carnival-like atmosphere. Their gigs are often described as a party.

Q4: Can I expect to hear their classic hits? Definitely. Bad Manners have a wealth of well-known hits from their extensive career. You can be sure that anthems like “Special Brew,” “Lip Up Fatty,” and “Ne-Ne Na-Na Na-Na Nu-Nu” will be on the setlist, guaranteed to get the crowd singing along.

Q5: How long does a typical Bad Manners set last? A Bad Manners performance is usually a substantial and energetic affair. While exact timings can vary on the night, you can generally expect a set lasting around 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring a full dose of their ska magic.

Q6: Is this gig suitable for younger fans of ska music? While Bad Manners are known for their energetic and sometimes boisterous performances, their music is generally upbeat and celebratory. The atmosphere at their gigs is usually very friendly and inclusive. However, as with any live music event, it’s advisable to consider the volume levels and the energetic nature of the crowd.