Orange Goblin

Orange Goblin Live at The 1865, Southampton

Get ready to descend into the sonic depths as British doom metal titans, Orange Goblin, storm the stage at The 1865 in Southampton on Tuesday, 16th December 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an unmissable congregation for anyone who appreciates raw, unadulterated heavy music delivered with ferocious passion. Orange Goblin are a band that embodies the very spirit of hard rock and heavy metal, forging a legacy built on powerful riffs, anthemic choruses, and a relentless touring ethic. Their return to Southampton promises an evening of cathartic energy, a vibrant celebration of all things heavy, and a chance to witness one of the UK’s most enduring and respected metal acts in their element. Prepare for a night that will shake the foundations and leave you buzzing long after the final chord has rung out.

About Orange Goblin

For over three decades, Orange Goblin have been a cornerstone of the UK’s heavy music scene, carving out a distinct niche with their unique blend of stoner rock, doom metal, and classic heavy metal. Formed in London in 1995, the band quickly gained a reputation for their powerful live performances and a sound that drew influence from giants like Black Sabbath, Motörhead, and Hawkwind, yet always retained their own unmistakable identity. Their early releases, such as the debut album Frequencies (1997) and the critically acclaimed Time Travelling Blues (1998), established them as purveyors of gritty, riff-laden anthems that spoke to a devoted underground following.

Over the years, Orange Goblin have consistently evolved, refining their songwriting and expanding their sonic palette without ever straying from their core ethos. Albums like Coup De Grace (2000), The Scorpionica (2004), and A Eulogy for the Damned (2012) showcased a band at the peak of their powers, delivering thunderous riffs, soaring vocals from frontman Ben Ward, and a sense of epic grandeur. They have cultivated a reputation as one of the hardest-working bands in the business, their extensive touring schedule taking them across the globe, gracing the stages of major festivals and intimate venues alike.

Notable hits and fan favourites that have cemented their status include the driving, anthemic “Red Tide Rising”, a track that perfectly encapsulates their high-energy stoner rock prowess. The crushing, Sabbath-esque riff of “Scorpionica” is another standout, showcasing their undeniable doom metal credentials. For those seeking pure, unadulterated heavy metal energy, “They Come Back” from A Eulogy for the Damned is a must-hear, a track that ignies the crowd with its relentless pace and powerful vocals. More recent offerings, like the title track from their latest album, The Filth and the Fury (2024), demonstrate that Orange Goblin are far from resting on their laurels, continuing to produce vital and potent heavy music. Their enduring appeal lies in their authenticity, their unwavering dedication to their craft, and their ability to connect with fans on a visceral level, making every Orange Goblin show a true celebration of heavy music.

Venue Information

The 1865 is Southampton’s premier destination for live music, renowned for its electrifying atmosphere and commitment to showcasing a diverse range of touring artists. This dedicated music venue provides an intimate yet powerful setting, perfect for experiencing the raw energy of bands like Orange Goblin. With excellent acoustics and a well-equipped stage, The 1865 ensures that every note resonates and every performance feels immediate and impactful. Whether you’re a seasoned gig-goer or looking for a memorable night out, The 1865 consistently delivers a top-tier live music experience. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a full-throttle sonic assault when Orange Goblin take the stage at The 1865. Their live shows are legendary for their unbridled energy and the sheer force of their musicianship. You can anticipate a setlist that masterfully cherry-picks from their extensive back catalogue, guaranteed to satisfy both long-time devotees and newcomers alike. Expect to hear anthemic classics that have soundtracked countless heavy music journeys, such as the roaring “Red Tide Rising”, its infectious riff and driving rhythm sure to get heads banging in unison. The colossal, doom-laden might of “Scorpionica” will undoubtedly feature, its sheer weight and palpable aggression washing over the audience. Prepare for the raw power of “They Come Back”, a track that embodies their signature blend of aggression and catchy songwriting, prompting a fervent singalong.

Beyond the hits, Orange Goblin are renowned for delving into their deep cuts, offering a true journey through their discography. You might be treated to the psychedelic leanings of their earlier work or the more polished, anthemic metal of their later material. The band’s performance style is nothing short of electrifying. Frontman Ben Ward commands the stage with his powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence, engaging directly with the crowd and fuelling the collective euphoria. The twin guitar attack of their guitarists delivers scorching solos and thunderous riffs that form the backbone of their sound, while the rhythm section of bass and drums provides a bedrock of thunderous groove and percussive power that is simply undeniable.

The overall duration of an Orange Goblin set typically clocks in at a substantial 75-90 minutes, providing ample opportunity for them to showcase their diverse sound and keep the energy levels soaring from start to finish. This is not a band that holds back; expect a relentless barrage of high-octane heavy metal, punctuated by moments of epic grandeur and pure, unadulterated rock and roll swagger. This is a performance designed to be felt as much as heard, a truly immersive experience that will leave you exhilarated and demanding an encore.

FAQs

Q1: Will Orange Goblin be playing new material from their latest album, The Filth and the Fury? A1: While Orange Goblin are known for celebrating their entire career, it is highly probable they will be featuring tracks from their latest release, The Filth and the Fury. They are a band that consistently supports their current work and fans can always expect a blend of their most recent output alongside established fan favourites.

Q2: How would you describe Orange Goblin’s typical live setlist? A2: Orange Goblin’s live setlists are a potent mix of their most celebrated anthems and fan-loved deep cuts. You can expect to hear crowd-pleasers like “Red Tide Rising,” “Scorpionica,” and “They Come Back,” alongside tracks that showcase their evolution and diverse influences. They aim to deliver a comprehensive and energetic journey through their extensive discography.

Q3: What kind of atmosphere can I expect at an Orange Goblin gig? A3: Expect a high-energy, passionate, and communal atmosphere. Orange Goblin’s shows are known for their intense energy, driven by the band’s powerful performance and the enthusiastic engagement of their dedicated fanbase. It’s a place for cathartic release, headbanging, and singing along to every heavy riff.

Q4: Is Orange Goblin suitable for fans of stoner rock and doom metal? A4: Absolutely. Orange Goblin are pioneers and enduring figures within both the stoner rock and doom metal scenes. Their sound masterfully blends the fuzzy, riff-heavy grooves of stoner rock with the crushing heaviness and epic atmosphere of doom metal, making them a must-see for fans of either genre.

Q5: How long is a typical Orange Goblin set? A5: A standard Orange Goblin set usually lasts between 75 and 90 minutes. This allows them ample time to deliver a powerful and comprehensive performance, showcasing a good range of their material and keeping the energy levels high throughout the evening.

Q6: Can I expect any special guests or support acts? A6: Information regarding support acts for this specific event will be announced closer to the date. While Orange Goblin are a powerful headliner in their own right, they often bring along exciting complementary bands that fit their heavy rock and metal ethos. Keep an eye on official announcements for any updates on support.