James

James Live at Co-op Live, Manchester – Saturday, 18 April 2026

Get ready for an unforgettable night as the iconic James takes to the stage at Manchester’s state-of-the-art Co-op Live on Saturday, 18 April 2026. This is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of a band that has soundtracked generations, delivering a live experience that is as electrifying and moving today as it was at the dawn of their illustrious career. Prepare to be swept away by a cascade of timeless anthems and infectious energy as James brings their legendary sound to the heart of Manchester.

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About the Event

On Saturday, 18 April 2026, Co-op Live will pulsate with the unmistakable energy of James. This highly anticipated performance promises to be a landmark event, showcasing a band renowned for their passionate live shows and a back catalogue that continues to resonate deeply with audiences. What makes this gig particularly special is the opportunity to witness a truly seminal British band at the peak of their powers, playing in one of the UK’s most exciting new venues. James are not just performers; they are alchemists, transforming their beloved songs into communal experiences. Expect a night where every note is felt, every lyric sung back with fervent devotion, and every moment etched into memory. It’s a chance to reconnect with the anthems that have defined moments in so many lives and discover the enduring brilliance of a band that consistently delivers raw, authentic, and exhilarating live music.

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About James

For over four decades, James have carved a unique and enduring path through the British music landscape. Emerging from the vibrant Manchester scene in the early 1980s, they quickly distinguished themselves with a sound that was both artful and accessible, blending post-punk sensibilities with infectious indie-pop melodies and Tim Booth’s distinctive, often spiritual, lyrical explorations. Their early years were marked by a restless creativity, experimenting with their sound and building a reputation for fiercely honest and energetic live performances.

The band truly exploded into the mainstream consciousness in the early 1990s, a golden era that saw them release a string of critically acclaimed albums and chart-topping singles. Their breakthrough came with the release of ‘Gold Mother’ in 1990, featuring the beloved hit “Sit Down,” a song that has since become an enduring anthem of unity and celebration. This was followed by further successes, including the chart-topping album ‘Seven’ (1992), which spawned fan favourites like “La La La” and the poignant “Sound.” Their subsequent albums, such as ‘Whiplash’ (1997) and ‘Millionaires’ (1999), continued to showcase their evolving sound, incorporating orchestral arrangements and a more polished production while never losing their raw emotional core.

Throughout their career, James have consistently defied easy categorisation, evolving their sound while maintaining an unwavering commitment to their artistic vision. They are celebrated for their ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable, exploring themes of love, loss, hope, and the human condition with remarkable candour. Their discography is rich with anthems that have become ingrained in the cultural fabric of Britain and beyond, including enduring hits like “Come Home,” “Born of Frustration,” and the more recent, powerful tracks that continue to demonstrate their relevance and artistic vitality. James are not simply a band with a history; they are a living, breathing force in music, constantly reinventing themselves and inspiring new generations of fans with their unparalleled passion and iconic sound.

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Venue Information

Co-op Live is Manchester’s newest and most exciting entertainment arena, designed to offer an unparalleled live music experience. With a capacity that places it among the largest indoor venues in the UK, it boasts state-of-the-art acoustics, cutting-edge technology, and an innovative bowl design that ensures every seat offers an incredible view of the stage. The venue is committed to creating an immersive atmosphere, making every concert feel intimate and electrifying, regardless of the scale of the event. Its central location within Manchester ensures excellent accessibility for fans travelling from across the region and beyond. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

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What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that is nothing short of a masterclass in live music. James are renowned for their electrifying stage presence, and their show at Co-op Live is guaranteed to be a testament to this reputation. Expect a setlist that masterfully navigates their extensive and beloved back catalogue, weaving together the anthemic singalongs that have soundtracked countless lives with perhaps some deeper cuts for the devoted fans. You can anticipate the explosive energy of “Born of Frustration,” the communal euphoria of “Sit Down,” the raw emotion of “Come Home,” and the infectious optimism of “La La La.”

Tim Booth, the band’s charismatic frontman, is a force of nature on stage. His dynamic performance style, which often involves captivating dance moves and a profound connection with the audience, is a key element in making James’s concerts so memorable. He has a unique ability to convey vulnerability and power simultaneously, drawing the audience into the heart of every song. The band themselves are a tightly-knit unit, delivering their signature blend of driving rhythms, soaring guitar lines, and emotive melodies with precision and passion. Expect a sound that is both rich and immediate, capturing the raw intensity of their studio recordings while amplifying it through the communal energy of a live audience.

While the exact duration of the set will vary, James’s concerts are typically a substantial and satisfying experience, often lasting for around two hours, frequently featuring an encore that leaves the crowd wanting more. This is not just a gig; it’s an event designed to immerse you in the world of James, from the moment the lights dim to the final, lingering chords. Prepare for a sensory journey that will leave you exhilarated, emotionally moved, and singing their songs long after you’ve left the arena.

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FAQs

Q1: Will James be playing all of their biggest hits at Co-op Live? James are known for their extensive and beloved back catalogue. While they always aim to deliver a setlist that satisfies long-time fans and introduces new listeners to their greatest songs, you can absolutely expect to hear their most iconic anthems like “Sit Down,” “Born of Frustration,” and “Come Home.” Their shows are a celebration of their entire career, so there will be a fantastic blend of fan favourites and perhaps some deeper cuts.

Q2: How energetic is a James live performance? James are renowned for their incredibly energetic and passionate live performances. Frontman Tim Booth is a dynamic performer, often seen dancing and engaging directly with the crowd, creating a truly vibrant atmosphere. The band’s musicality is tight and powerful, ensuring a high-octane experience from start to finish.

Q3: Can I expect any new material to be played? While James have a rich history of delivering their classic hits, they are also a band that continues to create and evolve. It’s always possible that they might debut new material or showcase songs from their more recent albums, demonstrating their ongoing artistic vitality.

Q4: What is Tim Booth’s typical stage interaction like? Tim Booth is celebrated for his unique and compelling stage presence. He has a profound ability to connect with his audience, often through expressive movement, heartfelt lyrics sung with immense feeling, and direct, often philosophical, engagement with the crowd. He makes each concert feel like a shared experience.

Q5: How long does a typical James concert last? James concerts are generally substantial and rewarding affairs. You can expect a performance lasting approximately two hours, often including a powerful encore that leaves the audience on a high.

Q6: Is this event suitable for younger fans or those new to James? Absolutely! While James have a long and rich history, their music has a timeless quality that appeals to all ages. Their anthems are universally uplifting and their live shows are incredibly inclusive, making it a fantastic experience for long-time fans and for anyone discovering their music for the first time. The energy and passion of their performance are infectious, creating a memorable night for everyone.