The Aces

The Aces Live at O2 Academy 2 Birmingham

Get ready for an electrifying night as The Aces take the stage at O2 Academy 2 Birmingham on Thursday, 19 February 2026. This is your chance to experience the infectious energy and captivating sound of one of the most exciting bands to emerge from the indie-pop scene in recent years. Known for their anthemic choruses, relatable lyrics, and dynamic stage presence, The Aces are set to deliver a performance that will leave you wanting more. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness their evolution as artists and celebrate their journey with a night of unforgettable music in the heart of Birmingham.

About The Aces

Hailing from Los Angeles, The Aces have carved out a distinctive niche in the contemporary music landscape since their formation. Comprised of Cristal Ramirez (vocals, guitar), Katie Henderson (guitar), McKenna Petersen (bass), and Alisa Chen (drums), the quartet first burst onto the scene with their debut EP, Stuck. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2018, truly solidified their reputation, showcasing a mature blend of shimmering synth-pop, heartfelt indie rock, and a touch of unapologetic pop sensibility. Tracks like “Stuck,” “Physical,” and “Waiting for You” quickly became fan favourites, hinting at the band’s innate ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners.

Their sophomore album, Under My Influence (2020), saw The Aces push their sonic boundaries further, exploring more complex lyrical themes and experimenting with a broader palette of sounds. This album delved into topics of self-discovery, relationships, and the intoxicating nature of influence, further cementing their reputation for honest and introspective songwriting. Hits such as “Daydream” and “All We Have” demonstrated their continued growth, blending catchy melodies with a raw emotional core. The Aces have consistently impressed with their ability to evolve, maintaining their signature sound while fearlessly venturing into new territories. Their journey has been marked by a steady ascent, fuelled by critical acclaim, a dedicated fanbase, and a reputation for delivering stellar live performances that capture the essence of their vibrant musical identity. Their music is a testament to their shared passion and artistic chemistry, offering a fresh and compelling voice in the indie-pop arena.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy 2 Birmingham is a renowned mid-sized music venue situated in the heart of the city. Known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, it provides the perfect setting for a band like The Aces to connect with their audience. With a capacity designed to foster a close-knit experience, attendees can expect to feel immersed in the music and the energy of the live performance. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for an electrifying live show when The Aces grace the stage at O2 Academy 2 Birmingham. Their performances are renowned for their vibrant energy, infectious enthusiasm, and genuine connection with the audience. Expect a setlist that expertly balances fan-favourite anthems with newer material, showcasing the breadth and evolution of their musical artistry.

Audiences can anticipate hearing beloved tracks such as the instantly recognisable synth-driven hooks of “Stuck” and the shimmering, yearning melodies of “Physical.” From their earlier work, you can expect the anthemic build-ups and relatable lyrics of “Waiting for You,” a song that has become a cornerstone of their live sets. When delving into their more recent material, prepare for the introspective yet danceable beats of “Daydream,” a track that encapsulates their mature sound and confident lyrical delivery. Furthermore, expect the emotionally resonant storytelling of “All We Have,” a testament to their continued growth as songwriters.

The Aces’ performance style is characterised by its dynamic range. Cristal Ramirez’s powerful and emotive vocals command attention, delivering each lyric with a sincerity that draws the listener in. The interplay between Cristal and guitarist Katie Henderson is a visual and sonic highlight, their guitar riffs weaving intricate patterns that underpin the band’s infectious sound. McKenna Petersen’s solid and groovy basslines provide a rhythmic foundation, while Alisa Chen’s drumming is both precise and explosive, driving the energy of each song.

Beyond the individual musicianship, the true magic of a live Aces performance lies in their collective synergy. They exude a palpable sense of joy and camaraderie on stage, which translates directly into the audience. Expect moments of raw, unadulterated rock and roll energy, punctuated by singalong choruses that unite the room. The band is adept at building momentum, starting with a more subdued introduction and escalating to anthemic crescendos that leave the crowd buzzing. Their set often includes moments of heartfelt vulnerability, where the emotional weight of their lyrics takes centre stage, before launching back into an uplifting and energetic groove.

The overall duration of The Aces’ headline set is typically around 75-90 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through their discography. This timeframe allows for a well-paced performance, encompassing a good number of their most popular tracks alongside deeper cuts that seasoned fans will undoubtedly appreciate. Prepare for a show that is not just a collection of songs, but an immersive experience filled with passion, talent, and an undeniable commitment to delivering a memorable night of live music.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Aces be playing songs from their debut album, Stuck, as well as their more recent work like Under My Influence?

A1: Absolutely. The Aces are known for curating a setlist that spans their entire career, ensuring that both long-time fans and newcomers have plenty to sing along to. You can definitely expect to hear fan favourites from their debut album, such as “Stuck” and “Physical,” alongside compelling tracks from Under My Influence like “Daydream” and “All We Have.” They aim to deliver a comprehensive musical journey through their discography.

Q2: What is The Aces’ typical performance style like? Is it more energetic rock or laid-back indie pop?

A2: The Aces strike a fantastic balance between energetic indie rock and captivating synth-pop. Their live performances are dynamic, featuring powerful vocals, compelling guitar riffs, and an infectious stage presence. While they have moments of introspective indie, they are equally adept at delivering high-energy, danceable anthems that get the crowd moving. Expect a show that’s both emotionally resonant and exhilarating.

Q3: How long is The Aces’ usual set time for a headline show?

A3: For a headline performance, The Aces typically play a set that lasts between 75 and 90 minutes. This allows them ample time to showcase a wide range of their material, move through different sonic landscapes, and create a truly engaging experience for the audience without feeling rushed.

Q4: Can I expect The Aces to interact with the audience during their set?

A4: Yes, audience interaction is a key part of The Aces’ live shows. Cristal Ramirez, as the frontwoman, is known for her engaging stage banter, often sharing insights into the songs or simply expressing her gratitude for the crowd’s energy. They aim to build a strong connection with their audience, making the concert feel like a shared experience rather than a one-way performance.

Q5: Are there any specific fan traditions or chants that are common at The Aces concerts?

A5: While The Aces don’t have extremely specific, codified fan traditions like some older bands, their concerts are characterised by enthusiastic singalongs, particularly during their most popular choruses like those in “Stuck” and “Physical.” The general atmosphere is one of shared excitement and mutual appreciation for the music, leading to a very positive and vocal crowd.

Q6: Will The Aces be performing any new material at this show, or will it be primarily focused on their released albums?

A6: While the primary focus of a tour is usually on established and popular tracks from their released albums, it’s not uncommon for bands like The Aces to occasionally debut new material or play unreleased songs as a special treat for their live audiences. However, you can be assured that the core of the setlist will be drawn from their critically acclaimed albums, offering a solid representation of their musical journey to date.