Brand New

Brand New Live at O2 Academy Glasgow

Get ready, Glasgow! The acclaimed alternative rock titans, Brand New, are set to ignite the stage at the iconic O2 Academy Glasgow on Monday, 17 November 2025. This promises to be an unforgettable night for fans, a chance to witness a band that has carved a significant niche in the landscape of modern rock, known for their raw emotion, intricate lyricism, and electrifying live performances. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a homecoming for a band that has consistently delivered a powerful and cathartic experience for their dedicated fanbase, and their return to Glasgow is a moment eagerly anticipated by many. Expect an evening steeped in the rich tapestry of their discography, a journey through anthems that have soundtracked countless lives and fostered a deep connection between the band and their listeners.

About Brand New

Emerging from Massapequa, New York, in the early 2000s, Brand New quickly established themselves as a formidable force in the alternative rock scene. Founded by Jesse Lacey, Vinnie Accardi, Garrett Tierney, and Brian Lane, the band’s initial sound, as heard on their 2001 debut Your Favorite Weapon, was characterised by its pop-punk energy and relatable, often angsty, lyrical themes. However, Brand New were never content to remain static. Their sophomore album, Deja Entendu (2003), marked a significant evolution, delving into more complex musical arrangements and introspective songwriting, yielding fan favourites like “Jude Law and a Semester Abroad” and “Sic Transit Gloria… Glory Fades.”

The band continued to push boundaries with each subsequent release. The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me (2006) showcased a darker, more experimental, and critically acclaimed direction, exploring themes of faith, doubt, and personal turmoil with a searing intensity. Hits like “Jesus Christ” and “The Millers Farm” became hallmarks of this period. Their penultimate album, Science Fiction (2016), a surprise release, was met with widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its maturity, artistic depth, and potent emotional resonance, featuring standout tracks such as “Can’t Get It Out” and “Same Logic/Symmetry.” Throughout their career, Brand New have cultivated a reputation for their intensely personal lyrics, which resonate deeply with listeners, exploring themes of adolescence, disillusionment, love, loss, and existential questioning with remarkable honesty and poetic flair. Despite their relatively reclusive nature and infrequent touring in later years, their impact on the alternative rock genre is undeniable, solidifying their status as one of the most influential and beloved bands of their generation.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy Glasgow is a premier live music venue nestled in the heart of the city. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, it has played host to some of the most memorable performances in Glasgow’s music scene. Boasting a capacity that creates an intimate yet energetic setting, the O2 Academy Glasgow is perfectly suited for an artist like Brand New, allowing for a powerful connection between the band and their audience. The venue is easily accessible and known for its excellent sound system, ensuring that every note and lyric is delivered with clarity and impact. For complete venue details, including accessibility information, transport links, and general policies, please see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When Brand New takes the stage at the O2 Academy Glasgow, prepare for an evening that transcends a typical concert experience. Their live performances are renowned for their unadulterated passion and raw energy. The band has a remarkable ability to translate the intricate emotional landscapes of their studio recordings into a visceral and captivating live show. Expect a setlist that expertly navigates their extensive and beloved discography. While setlists can vary, highlights will undoubtedly include powerful renditions of fan favourites that span their career. From the anthemic singalongs of their earlier work, such as “The Quiet Things That Never Happen” and “Sic Transit Gloria… Glory Fades,” to the more introspective and complex depths of their later material, such as “Jesus Christ,” “Waste,” and “Can’t Get It Out,” Brand New are known for delivering a balanced and emotionally resonant journey through their music.

Their performance style is characterised by an intense focus and a palpable connection between the band members on stage. Jesse Lacey’s often intense vocal delivery, coupled with the dynamic interplay of the musicians, creates a powerful and immersive atmosphere. You can anticipate moments of explosive energy, punctuated by quieter, more poignant passages that draw the audience into the heart of their lyrical narratives. While the precise duration can fluctuate, a Brand New show typically runs for a substantial amount of time, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of their musical evolution. Be prepared for a performance that is as much about emotional catharsis as it is about musical prowess. The energy in the room will be electric, a shared experience of reverence and exhilaration for a band that has profoundly impacted so many.

FAQs

Q1: Will Brand New be performing songs from their entire discography, or will they focus on specific albums? Brand New are known for their comprehensive approach to live shows, typically weaving together a selection of their most beloved tracks from across their entire catalogue. While they might feature a few deeper cuts, you can absolutely expect to hear iconic songs from Deja Entendu, The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me, Daisy, and their critically acclaimed final album, Science Fiction. They often create a setlist that honours their evolution as artists, appealing to long-time fans and those who have discovered them more recently.

Q2: What is Brand New’s typical performance style like? Is it high-energy or more subdued? Brand New’s performances are a dynamic blend of both high-energy intensity and moments of profound emotional quietude. Jesse Lacey’s vocal delivery can be incredibly powerful and raw, driving the more anthemic tracks, while the band as a whole excels at creating atmosphere and conveying the intricate emotional weight of their songs. Expect moments of explosive energy, cathartic singalongs, and also more introspective, almost reverential, periods. The overall experience is a testament to their sonic versatility and emotional depth.

Q3: Is Brand New known for interacting with the audience during their shows? While Jesse Lacey, the frontman, is not typically one for lengthy stage banter, the connection with the audience is undeniable through their music. The intensity of their performance and the shared emotional resonance of their lyrics create a powerful unspoken dialogue. You might get brief, genuine acknowledgements, but the primary communication comes through the sheer force and honesty of their performance. The audience’s enthusiastic participation, singing along to every word, is a significant part of the Brand New live experience.

Q4: Are there any specific songs that are almost always included in Brand New’s setlists? Certain songs have become staples and are almost guaranteed to be performed at a Brand New show due to their immense popularity and fan adoration. These frequently include “The Quiet Things That Never Happen,” “Sic Transit Gloria… Glory Fades,” “Jude Law and a Semester Abroad,” “Jesus Christ,” “Waste,” and “Can’t Get It Out.” However, the band is also known for occasionally surprising their audience with less frequently played tracks or live debuts, keeping each show unique.

Q5: Given Brand New’s history, should I anticipate any specific stage presence or visual elements? Brand New’s stage presence is generally focused on the music itself rather than elaborate visual spectacles. The emphasis is on the raw power of their performance and the emotional connection forged through their songs. You can expect a dedicated band, focused on delivering their material with utmost sincerity. The lighting might enhance the mood of each song, but the core experience will be the powerful sonic delivery and the palpable passion emanating from the stage.

Q6: Is there a specific age restriction for this event? As is standard for most O2 Academy venues, the event is typically for ages 14 and over. However, it’s always advisable to check the specific event listing on the O2 Academy Glasgow website or the ticketing platform you intend to use for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding age restrictions, as these can sometimes vary.