Baxter Dury

Baxter Dury Live at O2 Academy Bristol

Prepare for a night of inimitable charisma, razor-sharp wit, and impeccably cool swagger as Baxter Dury brings his distinctive brand of observational songwriting and effortlessly suave performance to the O2 Academy Bristol on Sunday, 23 November 2025. This is more than just a gig; it’s an immersion into a world crafted with spoken-word poetry, infectious grooves, and a healthy dose of London cynicism delivered with a wink and a smile. For fans of sophisticated, character-driven music, this promises to be an unmissable occasion where you’ll witness an artist at the height of his powers, captivating an audience with his singular artistic vision.

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About Baxter Dury

Born into the world of rock royalty as the son of the legendary Ian Dury, Baxter Dury has carved out a remarkably distinct and celebrated career that stands entirely on its own merits. Eschewing the direct lineage of his father’s pub-rock anthems, Baxter has forged a path through the sonic landscape with a unique blend of spoken-word delivery, electronic beats, and sardonic, yet deeply observant, lyrical narratives. His music often paints vivid portraits of urban life, exploring the foibles of modern relationships, the absurdities of social interaction, and the quiet desperations that lie beneath the surface of everyday existence.

Dury’s discography is a testament to his evolving artistry. His debut album, Len Parfitt (2001), laid the groundwork for his distinctive style, while subsequent releases like Floor Show (2005) and Happy Soup (2009) further refined his sonic palette. It was with albums like It’s Raining Flowers for Gary (2014) and Miami (2017) that Baxter truly hit his stride, garnering widespread critical acclaim. Miami, in particular, saw him embrace a more electronic, almost lounge-lizard feel, propelled by tracks like the irresistible, darkly humorous “Miami” and the swaggering “Cocaine Woman.” His most recent critically lauded album, The Night Chancers (2020), continued this trajectory, featuring standout tracks such as the slinky, introspective “Rosie” and the infectiously groovy “Sleepy Tom Cat.” Each release showcases Baxter’s uncanny ability to distill complex emotions and social commentary into deceptively simple, yet profoundly resonant, sonic tapestries. His ability to blend vulnerability with a cool, detached demeanour makes his performances utterly compelling, a true masterclass in understated charisma.

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Venue Information

The O2 Academy Bristol is a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant live music scene, renowned for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics. Located in a prime city-centre spot, this historic venue has played host to countless iconic performances, providing an ideal setting for an artist like Baxter Dury to connect with his audience. The Academy’s layout ensures a great view from most vantage points, fostering a sense of shared experience between performer and attendee. For complete venue details, including information on accessibility, travel, and facilities, please see our venue guide.

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What to Expect

A Baxter Dury performance is a captivating affair, a masterclass in understated cool and profound observation. Don’t expect pyrotechnics or bombastic stage shows; instead, prepare for an evening of potent atmosphere and razor-sharp lyrical delivery. Baxter, often clad in his signature sharp attire, commands the stage with a magnetic presence that draws you into his world. His vocal style, a distinctive blend of spoken word and melodic murmurs, is hypnotic, drawing you into the narratives he weaves with effortless grace.

The setlist on any given night is likely to draw from his rich back catalogue, offering a journey through his career. Fans can anticipate hearing beloved tracks such as the undeniably catchy “Miami,” with its infectious bassline and wry lyrics that perfectly encapsulate urban ennui. The sultry, introspective “Rosie” is almost guaranteed to feature, its melancholic beauty resonating deeply. Expect to be entranced by the sophisticated charm of “Cocaine Woman,” a track that epitomises his ability to find poetry in the unconventional. Newer material from his acclaimed albums will undoubtedly be showcased, offering further insights into his enduring talent for observation and sonic experimentation.

Baxter’s performance style is characterized by its authenticity. He delivers his lyrics with a deliberate, almost conversational cadence, making each story feel personal and immediate. There’s a palpable sense of humour and self-awareness that permeates his set, often delivered through subtle nods, wry smiles, and the occasional dry quip. He’s accompanied by a tight, exceptionally talented band who provide the pulsating electronic soundscapes and groovy basslines that are the bedrock of his music. The interplay between Baxter’s vocal delivery and the precise, atmospheric instrumentation creates a sound that is both danceable and deeply thought-provoking. The atmosphere is one of sophisticated enjoyment, where the audience is encouraged to sway, nod their heads, and absorb the intricate details of Baxter’s lyrical tapestries. While specific setlists vary, the overarching experience is one of being invited into a uniquely crafted world, delivered with effortless charisma and profound artistic integrity. The duration of the show is typically around 90 minutes, leaving you thoroughly captivated and perhaps with a new perspective on the everyday.

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FAQs

Q1: Will Baxter Dury play songs from his debut album, Len Parfitt? While Baxter’s setlists evolve, he often draws from his extensive back catalogue, and fans hoping for deeper cuts might be pleasantly surprised. However, his more recent, critically acclaimed albums like Miami and The Night Chancers tend to form the core of his live performances, showcasing his refined sound.

Q2: Is Baxter Dury known for his energetic stage presence? Baxter Dury’s stage presence is less about high-octane theatrics and more about captivating charisma and a cool, sophisticated swagger. He commands the stage through his unique vocal delivery, observational wit, and effortless style, creating an intimate connection with the audience.

Q3: What kind of music does Baxter Dury play? Baxter Dury’s music defies easy categorisation. It’s often described as a blend of spoken-word poetry, electronic pop, and observational songwriting, with a distinctively British, urban flavour. Think laid-back grooves, sophisticated beats, and lyrics that paint vivid pictures of modern life with a healthy dose of sardonic humour.

Q4: Can I expect to hear his biggest hits like “Miami” and “Rosie”? Absolutely. Tracks like “Miami” and “Rosie” are fan favourites and significant highlights from his career, making them very likely inclusions in his setlist. They are integral to understanding his artistic evolution and sonic identity.

Q5: Will there be a support act for Baxter Dury? Information regarding support acts is typically announced closer to the event date. Please check the O2 Academy Bristol’s official website or the event listing for the most up-to-date details on any supporting artists.

Q6: How long is Baxter Dury’s typical set? Baxter Dury’s performances generally last around 90 minutes. This allows ample time for him to showcase a range of his material, from introspective ballads to more upbeat, groove-laden tracks, ensuring a memorable and complete experience for the audience.