Orange Goblin

Here’s the event page content for Orange Goblin at Manchester Academy 2:

About the Event

Get ready to experience the raw, unadulterated power of Orange Goblin as they descend upon Manchester Academy 2 on Saturday, 13 December 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a testament to one of Britain’s most enduring and electrifying heavy rock bands. For over two decades, Orange Goblin have carved a legendary path through the UK’s rock and metal scene, renowned for their ferocious live shows that leave audiences breathless and exhilarated. This intimate performance at Manchester Academy 2 promises an unforgettable night of blistering riffs, thunderous rhythms, and vocals that command attention. Prepare yourself for an evening steeped in true rock and roll spirit, where the energy is palpable and the music hits you right in the gut.

About Orange Goblin

Emerging from the vibrant London scene in the mid-1990s, Orange Goblin quickly established themselves as a formidable force in the British heavy music landscape. Their distinctive sound, a potent cocktail of stoner rock, doom metal, and classic hard rock, has consistently evolved while retaining its core identity of immense power and undeniable groove. With a career spanning multiple critically acclaimed albums and a reputation built on relentless touring, Orange Goblin have become a cornerstone of the UK’s heavy rock community.

Their journey began with the release of their debut album, Frequencies from Planet Seven, in 1997, showcasing their early penchant for fuzzy riffs and aggressive energy. Subsequent releases like Time (1999) and The Big Black (2000) solidified their status, drawing praise for their songwriting prowess and infectious energy. The band’s breakthrough arguably came with Coup de Grâce (2002), an album that propelled them to new heights and featured fan favourites such as the anthemic “Red Water Effigy” and the searing “Scorpionica.” Further critical successes followed with albums like Thieving from the House of God (2004), A Eulogy for the Damned (2012), and Back from the Abyss (2014), each demonstrating their unwavering commitment to delivering high-octane, no-nonsense heavy rock.

Orange Goblin are celebrated for their ability to blend crushing heaviness with memorable melodies and anthemic choruses, a skill that has earned them legions of dedicated fans. Their live performances are legendary, characterised by an electrifying stage presence, a palpable sense of camaraderie, and a setlist that rarely disappoints. From the early, raw energy of tracks like “Quincy” and “Assorted Secrets” to the more refined, yet equally powerful, material from their later works, Orange Goblin consistently deliver a performance that is both visceral and incredibly satisfying. They are a band that understands the fundamental power of a well-crafted riff and a driving beat, and they deliver it with an intensity that few can match.

Venue Information

Manchester Academy 2 is a renowned live music venue located within the University of Manchester’s student union. It’s a space that has hosted countless memorable performances from a diverse range of artists, establishing itself as a premier destination for live music in the North West. With its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, Academy 2 provides the perfect setting for fans to get up close and personal with their favourite bands. Its location within the city centre also makes it easily accessible for gig-goers from across Manchester and beyond. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for an evening that will resonate with the very foundations of heavy music. Orange Goblin are not a band known for subtlety; they are a force of nature, and their live shows are a testament to this. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves through their extensive and impressive back catalogue, showcasing the breadth of their sonic assault. You’ll be treated to the blistering, riff-heavy anthems that have defined their career, from the early stoner rock fury of tracks that built their reputation to the more polished, yet equally aggressive, material that has kept them at the forefront of the scene.

Fan favourites such as the undeniably catchy and powerful “Red Water Effigy” are almost guaranteed to ignite the crowd, with its driving rhythm and singalong chorus. Expect the raw energy of “Scorpionica” to have the mosh pit churning, its ferocious intensity a hallmark of their live prowess. Don’t be surprised if you hear the anthemic “Scum of the Earth,” a track that perfectly encapsulates their unapologetic heavy rock spirit. They have a knack for digging into their archives, so keep an ear out for beloved tracks from albums like Coup de Grâce and A Eulogy for the Damned, which have consistently been highlights of their live sets.

The performance style of Orange Goblin is nothing short of electrifying. Frontman Tom “Wobbly” Johnson commands the stage with his distinctive, powerful vocals, his presence a magnetic focal point. The guitar work of Joe Hoare and Liam Hughes delivers a relentless barrage of crushing riffs and searing solos, underpinned by the thunderous rhythm section of Martyn Millard on bass and the powerhouse drumming of Chris Turner. Their interplay is tight, their energy levels consistently sky-high, and their passion for the music is undeniably infectious. This is a band that thrives on the connection with their audience, and they deliver a performance that is as much about shared experience as it is about individual musicianship. The duration of the set will be substantial, typically running for around 90 minutes, allowing ample time for them to showcase a diverse range of their celebrated material and leave you wanting more.

FAQs

Q1: Will Orange Goblin be playing songs from their new album? While Orange Goblin are known for revisiting their extensive back catalogue during live performances, they often incorporate newer material into their sets. Specific setlists can vary from night to night, and the band may choose to showcase tracks from their latest recordings alongside their classic hits. Fans should prepare for a dynamic set that reflects their current musical output as well as their enduring fan favourites.

Q2: What is the typical length of an Orange Goblin set? Orange Goblin typically deliver a robust performance, with their sets usually lasting around 90 minutes. This allows them ample time to deliver a comprehensive journey through their impressive discography, ensuring fans get to experience a wide range of their signature heavy rock anthems and deeper cuts.

Q3: Can I expect any special guests or support acts for Orange Goblin? The event page will be updated with information regarding support acts closer to the date. While Orange Goblin themselves are the main attraction, they often tour with talented bands from the heavy rock and metal scene, offering a full night of powerful music. Keep an eye on the official event listings for any announcements regarding supporting artists.

Q4: What is the best way to describe Orange Goblin’s live sound? Orange Goblin’s live sound is best described as raw, powerful, and incredibly energetic. They are renowned for their thunderous riffs, driving rhythms, and Tom “Wobbly” Johnson’s distinctive, commanding vocals. Their performance style is visceral, with a palpable sense of authenticity and a deep connection to the classic heavy rock and stoner metal sounds that have defined their career. Expect a no-holds-barred delivery that is both crushing and exhilarating.

Q5: Have Orange Goblin played at Manchester Academy 2 before? Orange Goblin have a long history of playing in Manchester, a city with a strong appetite for heavy music. While specific past appearances at Manchester Academy 2 are not detailed here, their consistent presence on the UK touring circuit suggests a high likelihood of them having graced this stage or similar venues within the Academy complex in the past. Their return to Manchester is always met with enthusiasm by their dedicated fanbase.

Q6: Is Orange Goblin suitable for younger fans? Orange Goblin play heavy rock music, which can include loud volumes and potentially aggressive lyrical themes. While there is no strict age restriction typically associated with their shows, it is recommended that parents or guardians consider the nature of the music and the live concert environment when deciding if it is appropriate for younger attendees. The intensity of the performance and the nature of heavy music are key factors to take into account.