Of Monsters and Men

Of Monsters and Men Live at O2 Academy Leeds

Get ready for an unforgettable night of anthemic indie-folk as Of Monsters and Men, the beloved Icelandic quintet, descend upon Leeds! On Thursday, 26 February 2026, the stage at the iconic O2 Academy Leeds will come alive with the soaring vocals, infectious melodies, and stirring narratives that have captivated audiences worldwide. This is more than just a concert; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a world of epic storytelling and joyous musical exploration, a rare opportunity to witness one of the most captivating live acts of our generation in the heart of Yorkshire. Prepare for an evening where every note resonates, every lyric transports, and the collective energy of the band and the crowd forge an unbreakable bond.

About Of Monsters and Men

Emerging from Reykjavík’s vibrant music scene in 2010, Of Monsters and Men quickly distinguished themselves with a sound that blended the raw, untamed spirit of folk with the expansive grandeur of arena-rock. Their breakout single, “Little Talks,” released in 2011, became a global phenomenon, its infectious whistling melody and earnest dual-vocals instantly recognisable and universally adored. This success paved the way for their critically acclaimed debut album, My Head Is an Animal (2012), a collection of songs that felt both deeply personal and sweepingly epic.

The band’s signature style is a rich tapestry woven with acoustic instrumentation – guitars, banjos, accordions – interwoven with powerful percussion and the unmistakable interplay of Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir and Ragnar Þórhallsson’s distinct yet harmonically perfect voices. Their lyrics often draw on mythology, nature, and the human condition, painting vivid sonic landscapes that resonate with a profound sense of wonder and melancholy. Following their triumphant debut, Of Monsters and Men continued to evolve, releasing further compelling albums like Beneath the Skin (2015), which delved into more introspective themes, and Fever Dream (2019), showcasing a bolder, more experimental edge while retaining their core identity. Their latest offering, Tides (2023), sees them return to their roots with a renewed focus on organic sounds and collaborative songwriting, demonstrating their enduring artistic growth. Hits beyond “Little Talks” that fans can expect to hear include the uplifting “Dirty Paws,” the emotionally charged “Mountain Sound,” the atmospheric “Empire,” and the soaring “Alligator,” each a testament to their mastery of crafting songs that feel both intimate and monumental.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy Leeds is a legendary live music venue, renowned for its historic architecture and its dedication to bringing world-class artists to the city. Situated in the vibrant heart of Leeds, it provides an intimate yet energetic setting for concerts, with a capacity that fosters a close connection between the audience and the performers. Its rich history and excellent acoustics make it a cherished destination for music lovers across Yorkshire and beyond. For complete venue details, including accessibility information, transport links, and seating arrangements, please refer to our comprehensive venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a truly immersive and exhilarating live experience with Of Monsters and Men. Their stage presence is dynamic and captivating, characterised by an unbridled energy that infects every corner of the room. You can anticipate a setlist that masterfully balances their most beloved anthems with newer material, ensuring a journey through their diverse discography. Expect the iconic singalongs of “Little Talks” and “Dirty Paws” to have the entire O2 Academy Leeds on their feet, voices raised in unison. Equally, the raw emotion of tracks from Beneath the Skin will likely evoke a more introspective, communal feeling, while the more recent explorations from Fever Dream and Tides will showcase their continued artistic evolution with powerful, driving performances.

The band’s performance style is a testament to their collective musicianship. Each member is a vital cog in their sonic machine, from the driving percussion to the intricate guitar and banjo melodies, all underscored by the powerful, harmonised vocals of Nanna and Ragnar. They have a remarkable ability to shift from moments of delicate vulnerability to explosive, crowd-rousing crescendos, creating a palpable ebb and flow throughout their set. Expect vibrant stage lighting and a visual presentation that complements the sweeping narratives of their songs. While the exact duration can vary, a typical Of Monsters and Men headline show runs for approximately 90 to 120 minutes, ensuring a generous and memorable performance that leaves you feeling exhilarated and deeply moved.

FAQs

Q1: Will Of Monsters and Men play “Little Talks” and other fan favourites? Absolutely! “Little Talks” is an enduring anthem and a staple of their live sets. You can be certain that they will perform their most beloved hits, including “Dirty Paws,” “Mountain Sound,” and “Empire,” alongside other fan-requested tracks from across their acclaimed albums. Their setlists are carefully curated to celebrate their musical journey and provide an unforgettable experience for long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Q2: How energetic is an Of Monsters and Men live show? Of Monsters and Men are renowned for their incredibly energetic and engaging live performances. They bring a palpable sense of joy and passion to the stage, and their music is designed to be experienced collectively. Expect a dynamic show with plenty of audience participation, singalongs, and a vibrant atmosphere that will have you on your feet and moving.

Q3: What is the typical set duration for an Of Monsters and Men concert? A typical headline concert by Of Monsters and Men usually lasts between 90 and 120 minutes. This allows them ample time to showcase a diverse range of their material, from their earliest hits to their latest works, ensuring a comprehensive and satisfying musical journey for the audience.

Q4: Are Of Monsters and Men known for any specific visual or thematic elements in their live shows? While their primary focus is on delivering exceptional musical performances, Of Monsters and Men often incorporate visual elements that complement the storytelling and atmosphere of their songs. This can include evocative lighting designs and sometimes subtle stage dressing that enhances the mythical and natural themes prevalent in their lyrics. The true visual spectacle, however, comes from the band’s infectious energy and the unified spirit of the crowd.

Q5: Do Of Monsters and Men interact with the audience during their shows? Yes, Of Monsters and Men are known for their genuine and warm interactions with their audience. Nanna and Ragnar frequently address the crowd, sharing anecdotes, expressing gratitude, and encouraging singalongs. This creates a strong sense of connection and makes the concert feel like a shared experience rather than just a performance.

Q6: What kind of atmosphere can I expect at an Of Monsters and Men gig? The atmosphere at an Of Monsters and Men concert is typically one of joyous celebration and shared connection. Their music inspires a feeling of community, and the audience often sings along with heartfelt enthusiasm. It’s an environment where you can feel uplifted by anthemic choruses, moved by heartfelt lyrics, and united with fellow music lovers in an unforgettable night of live music.