The Charlatans

The Charlatans Live at Manchester Academy: A Timeless Manchester Homecoming

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as one of Manchester’s most beloved musical exports, The Charlatans, return to the hallowed halls of the Manchester Academy on Thursday, 11th December 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a homecoming celebration, a testament to enduring artistry, and a chance to witness a band that has soundtracked generations of British life. For over three decades, The Charlatans have consistently delivered their unique blend of indie rock, psychedelia, and dancefloor-filling anthems, and their return to their spiritual home promises to be a night of pure sonic euphoria. Expect a career-spanning setlist, brimming with those instantly recognisable hits that have cemented their status as an unmissable live act. This is more than a concert; it’s a chance to reconnect with the music that has defined a generation and to experience the raw energy of The Charlatans in the intimate setting of one of Manchester’s most iconic venues.

About The Charlatans

Emerging from the vibrant North West music scene of the late 1980s, The Charlatans quickly established themselves as a formidable force. Fronted by the charismatic Tim Burgess, whose distinctive vocal style is as recognisable as ever, and powered by the inventive keyboard melodies of Rob Collins (whose spirit still imbues their sound), the band forged a sound that was both of its time and timeless. Their debut album, Some Friendly, released in 1990, exploded onto the charts, propelled by the infectious energy of singles like “The Only One I Know” and the anthemic “Then”. This was followed by a string of critically acclaimed albums and a consistent stream of hit singles throughout the 90s and beyond, including “Weirdo”, “Can’t Get Out of Bed”, “Crashin’ In”, “One to Another”, and the iconic “The Only One I Know”.

The Charlatans’ enduring appeal lies in their ability to blend infectious dance rhythms with compelling songwriting and a distinctly British sensibility. Their music effortlessly straddles the line between indie dance, psychedelia, and pure rock ‘n’ roll, creating a sound that is both exhilarating and deeply soulful. Despite the inevitable ups and downs that come with a long career, the band has remained remarkably consistent in their output and their live performance. They’ve navigated sonic shifts, personal tragedies, and the ever-changing landscape of the music industry with a resilience and dedication that has earned them a fiercely loyal fanbase. Their live shows are legendary for their energy, their communal feel, and their ability to unite crowds with a shared love for their expansive catalogue. Tim Burgess, still a captivating frontman, commands the stage with his effortless cool and genuine enthusiasm, while the band deliver a tight, dynamic performance that showcases their enduring musical chemistry. The Charlatans are not a band content to rest on their laurels; they continue to evolve, to create, and most importantly, to connect with their audience on a profound level, making each concert a truly special occasion.

Venue Information

Manchester Academy stands as a cornerstone of the city’s live music scene, renowned for its intimate atmosphere and consistently excellent acoustics. Located at the heart of the University of Manchester, it has hosted countless legendary performances from artists both established and emerging. Its reputation for delivering a powerful and immersive live music experience makes it the perfect setting for a band like The Charlatans, where every note and lyric will resonate with the audience. For complete venue details, including accessibility information, bar services, and directions, please see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When The Charlatans take to the stage at Manchester Academy, you can anticipate an electrifying journey through their illustrious career. The setlist is always a carefully curated blend of their most cherished anthems and deeper cuts, designed to keep the energy levels soaring. Expect to hear those undeniable chart-toppers like the sun-drenched shimmer of “The Only One I Know”, the driving rhythm of “One to Another”, and the euphoric release of “Then” – all delivered with the raw, unadulterated power that defines their live performances. But it’s not just about the hits; the band are known for delving into their extensive back catalogue, unearthing fan favourites and even showcasing newer material that demonstrates their continued creative vitality.

The Charlatans’ performance style is inherently engaging and dynamic. Tim Burgess is a master of crowd interaction, a frontman who not only sings the songs but lives them, his energy infectious. He has a remarkable ability to connect with every individual in the room, fostering a sense of shared experience. The band themselves are a tight-knit unit, their instrumental prowess evident in every note. The interplay between Martin Blunt’s solid basslines, Pete Salisbury’s driving drum beats, and Tony Rogers’ swirling Hammond organ and synth textures creates that signature Charlatans soundscape that is both danceable and expansive. Mark Collins’ guitar work adds layers of texture and melody, from intricate riffs to soaring solos. Their performance is a testament to their decades of experience, a seamless execution of their musical craft that feels both polished and spontaneous. The atmosphere is always one of jubilant celebration, a testament to the band’s enduring appeal. While the exact duration can vary, expect a full and satisfying set, likely running for approximately 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring you get your fill of sonic goodness from this legendary Mancunian band.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Charlatans play their biggest hits at this gig? Absolutely. The Charlatans are renowned for delivering a setlist packed with their most beloved and recognisable hits. You can be sure that anthems like “The Only One I Know”, “Then”, and “One to Another” will feature prominently in their performance, guaranteed to get the crowd singing along.

Q2: Has Tim Burgess been the lead singer for The Charlatans throughout their career? Yes, Tim Burgess has been the consistent and iconic lead singer of The Charlatans since their formation in 1988. His distinctive vocal style and charismatic stage presence are central to the band’s identity.

Q3: Can I expect to hear any new material from The Charlatans at this show? While their setlists heavily feature their classic hits, The Charlatans are a band that continues to evolve and release new music. It’s highly probable that they will include some of their more recent material in the setlist, showcasing their ongoing creative output alongside their timeless classics.

Q4: What is The Charlatans’ typical performance style like? The Charlatans are celebrated for their energetic and engaging live performances. Expect a dynamic show driven by infectious rhythms, Tim Burgess’s captivating stage presence and crowd interaction, and the band’s tight musicality. Their shows are often described as joyful, communal celebrations of their music.

Q5: Is there a specific meaning behind the band’s name, “The Charlatans”? The band has stated that the name “The Charlatans” was chosen because they liked the sound of it. It was a name that resonated with them at the time of their formation and has since become synonymous with their unique brand of music.

Q6: Have The Charlatans played Manchester Academy before? Yes, The Charlatans have a strong connection to Manchester and have performed at various iconic venues in the city, including Manchester Academy, on numerous occasions throughout their career. This return is a homecoming for a band deeply rooted in the city’s musical heritage.