The Blue Stones

The Blue Stones Live at Manchester Academy 2

Get ready for an electrifying night as Canadian rock powerhouse The Blue Stones descend upon Manchester! On Thursday, 5 February 2026, Manchester Academy 2 will reverberate with the raw energy and soulful grit that has propelled this dynamic duo to international acclaim. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a chance to witness one of rock’s most compelling emerging forces up close and personal, experiencing their signature blend of bluesy riffs, powerhouse vocals, and undeniable stage presence that has captivated audiences worldwide. Prepare for an evening that promises to be a visceral journey through soaring anthems and introspective ballads, leaving you breathless and wanting more.

About The Blue Stones

Hailing from Windsor, Ontario, The Blue Stones have rapidly carved out a distinctive niche in the modern rock landscape. Comprised of the dynamic duo Tarek Jafar (vocals, guitar, keyboards) and Justin Tessier (drums, vocals), their sound is a potent concoction of vintage blues grit, stadium-rock ambition, and a modern sensibility that feels both timeless and refreshingly contemporary. Their journey began with a relentless dedication to honing their craft in local clubs, a period that forged the tight, telepathic connection that defines their live performances.

Their debut album, Black Water, released in 2018, was a critical and commercial breakthrough, immediately showcasing their knack for crafting unforgettable hooks and delivering them with an intensity that belies their relatively short time on the scene. Tracks like the gritty, riff-driven “Black Water” and the soaring, anthemic “Rolling In” became instant fan favourites, hinting at the potent force they were becoming. This was further solidified by their sophomore album, Hidden Gems (2021), which saw them expand their sonic palette while retaining their signature intensity. Singles such as the driving “Great Escape” and the emotionally charged “Lights” demonstrated their growth as songwriters and performers, earning them widespread radio play and cementing their reputation as purveyors of high-octane, soul-stirring rock. The Blue Stones are more than just a band; they are a testament to the enduring power of authentic rock and roll, delivered with an honesty and passion that resonates deeply with their ever-growing fanbase.

Venue Information

Manchester Academy 2, nestled within the vibrant student union of the University of Manchester, is a cornerstone of the city’s live music scene. Renowned for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, it provides the perfect setting for experiencing the raw power of The Blue Stones. This purpose-built venue has hosted countless legendary performances and continues to be a vital platform for both established artists and emerging talent. Its reputation for delivering top-tier sound quality ensures that every note, every riff, and every vocal nuance from The Blue Stones will be experienced in its full glory. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that crackles with untamed energy and genuine passion. The Blue Stones are not a band that merely plays their songs; they inhabit them. Expect a setlist that masterfully navigates the highs and lows of their impressive discography. Alongside the undeniable fan favourites like the thunderous “Black Water” and the anthemic build-up of “Rolling In,” you’re likely to hear potent renditions of tracks from Hidden Gems, including the infectious groove of “Great Escape” and the introspective power of “Lights.” They have a talent for weaving older material with newer tracks, creating a cohesive and captivating narrative throughout their sets.

Their performance style is characterized by an electric synergy between Jafar’s captivating vocal delivery and his dynamic guitar work, often shifting seamlessly from searing solos to intricate bluesy licks. Tessier is a force of nature behind the drum kit, providing a thunderous and intricate rhythmic foundation that drives each song forward with relentless momentum. Their stage presence is both commanding and accessible, drawing the audience into their world with every strum and every beat. Expect a show that is loud, proud, and unapologetically rock and roll, punctuated by moments of genuine vulnerability and raw emotion. While official set times can vary, a typical Blue Stones performance clocks in at a substantial 90-100 minutes, offering a comprehensive and deeply satisfying musical experience that leaves no stone unturned.

FAQs

Q1: What are The Blue Stones’ most popular songs I should be familiar with before the show?

You’re in for a treat! To get the most out of the experience, familiarising yourself with their standout tracks is highly recommended. Their debut single, “Black Water,” is an absolute must – it’s a gritty, blues-infused anthem with an unforgettable riff. “Rolling In” is another massive hit, known for its soaring chorus and anthemic feel. From their more recent work, “Great Escape” offers a driving, infectious energy, while “Lights” showcases their ability to craft emotionally resonant and powerful ballads. Listening to these will give you a fantastic foundation for appreciating their performance.

Q2: Is The Blue Stones’ music primarily blues or rock?

The beauty of The Blue Stones lies in their masterful fusion of genres. While their roots are undeniably steeped in the raw, soulful essence of blues music, their sound is firmly planted in the stadium-filling power of modern rock. You’ll hear classic blues structures and soulful vocal inflections, but they’re delivered with a contemporary rock edge, complete with driving guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and an overall high-octane energy. They bridge the gap between vintage grit and modern swagger.

Q3: How energetic is a typical Blue Stones live performance?

Prepare for a seriously energetic show! The Blue Stones are renowned for their electrifying live performances. Tarek Jafar and Justin Tessier bring an incredible intensity and passion to the stage. Expect a high-octane set filled with dynamic shifts, soaring vocals, powerful guitar solos, and propulsive drumming. They have a knack for building tension and releasing it in explosive bursts of sound, creating a truly immersive and exhilarating experience for the audience.

Q4: Can I expect The Blue Stones to play songs from their debut album, Black Water, as well as their newer material?

Absolutely! The Blue Stones are known for playing a well-rounded setlist that spans their career. Their debut album, Black Water, is foundational to their sound and includes many of their most beloved tracks, so you can be sure to hear classics from it. They also consistently incorporate songs from their follow-up album, Hidden Gems, and potentially even newer material they may have released since. This approach ensures a comprehensive and satisfying journey through their musical evolution.

Q5: What is Tarek Jafar’s role in the band aside from vocals?

Tarek Jafar is a multi-talented force within The Blue Stones. In addition to being the lead vocalist, he is also the primary guitarist and keyboardist. This versatility allows for the rich sonic textures you hear on their records and translates directly into their dynamic live performances. You’ll witness him delivering searing guitar solos, laying down intricate bluesy riffs, and adding atmospheric depth with his keyboard work, all while commanding the stage with his powerful vocals.

Q6: How long does a typical The Blue Stones concert usually last?

While exact set times can vary depending on the specific date and supporting acts, a typical headline show from The Blue Stones usually runs for a substantial duration. You can generally expect their performance to last between 90 and 100 minutes. This generous timeframe allows them to delve into a wide range of their discography, delivering a full and satisfying concert experience that leaves audiences feeling like they’ve truly witnessed something special.