The Hives

The Hives Live at OVO Hydro Arena Glasgow – Get Ready for the Rock ‘n’ Roll Inferno!

Prepare yourselves, Glasgow, for an electrifying collision of raw energy and unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll! On Wednesday, 26 November 2025, the legendary Swedish titans of swagger, The Hives, are set to unleash their blistering live show upon the magnificent OVO Hydro Arena Glasgow. This isn’t just a concert; it’s a full-throttle celebration of infectious riffs, primal screams, and a stage presence that has cemented their reputation as one of the most exhilarating live bands on the planet. Witnessing The Hives is an experience that transcends mere music – it’s a seismic event, a primal roar that will leave you breathless, exhilarated, and utterly convinced that rock ‘n’ roll is very much alive and kicking. Get ready to be consumed by the sheer, unadulterated power of The Hives in their absolute element.

About The Hives

Emerging from the vibrant Fagersta music scene in Sweden in the late 1990s, The Hives swiftly carved out a reputation for their ferocious live performances and their unwavering commitment to a classic, no-nonsense brand of garage rock. Spearheaded by the inimitable Pelle Almqvist, whose frontman charisma is as legendary as his signature dance moves, and supported by the tightly-wound guitar assault of Nicholaus Arson and Mikael Karlsson, alongside the thunderous rhythm section of Johan Göransson and Chris Dangerous, The Hives have spent over two decades proving that simplicity, coupled with sheer attitude, is an unbeatable formula.

Their breakthrough came with the release of “Veni Vidi Vicious” in 2000, an album that spawned the anthemic “Hate to Say I Told You So,” a track that became an instant global hit and a defining moment for modern garage rock. This was followed by critical and commercial success with subsequent albums like “Tyrannius Rex Is Dead!” (2004) and “Black and White Jar” (2007), which continued to showcase their signature sound: a potent blend of raw, fuzzy guitars, driving basslines, and Almqvist’s distinctive sneering vocals. Other notable hits that have soundtracked countless mosh pits and singalongs include “Walk Idiot Walk,” “Two-Timing Snake,” and “Tick Tick Boom,” each testament to their ability to craft incredibly catchy, high-octane rock anthems. The Hives are more than just a band; they are a force of nature, a living embodiment of the raw, rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Venue Information

The OVO Hydro Arena Glasgow is Scotland’s premier entertainment venue, a state-of-the-art facility renowned for hosting world-class musical acts, sporting events, and major entertainment spectacles. Located on the banks of the River Clyde, this iconic venue boasts a capacity of up to 15,000, providing an intimate yet grand atmosphere for live performances. Its cutting-edge design ensures excellent acoustics and sightlines from all seating areas, making it the perfect stage for a band as electrifying as The Hives. Whether you’re in the standing arena or seated in the upper tiers, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable view and sound experience. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a sonic assault and a visual spectacle unlike any other when The Hives hit the OVO Hydro. Their live shows are legendary for a reason: they are an all-out, high-octane explosion of pure rock ‘n’ roll energy. Expect Pelle Almqvist to command the stage with an almost manic intensity, his between-song banter a masterclass in witty provocations and rock ‘n’ roll sermons. He’s a whirlwind of flailing limbs, microphone acrobatics, and infectious charisma, effortlessly whipping the crowd into a frenzy.

The setlist will undoubtedly be a masterclass in their celebrated back catalogue, peppered with their most potent anthems. You can anticipate the thunderous roar of “Hate to Say I Told You So” to send shockwaves through the arena, followed by the defiant swagger of “Walk Idiot Walk.” Prepare for the explosive energy of “Tick Tick Boom” to have you jumping in unison, and the irresistible groove of “Two-Timing Snake” to get hips shaking. They rarely shy away from digging deep into their discography, often unearthing fan favourites alongside their undeniable smash hits, ensuring a dynamic and satisfying journey through their illustrious career.

The Hives’ performance style is raw, unfiltered, and relentlessly energetic. There are no elaborate stage props or pyrotechnics in the traditional sense; the spectacle comes from the sheer, unadulterated power of the band themselves. Their tight musicianship, coupled with Almqvist’s unparalleled stage presence, creates a visceral and communal experience. The band operates as a tightly-oiled machine, each member a crucial cog in the machine of rock ‘n’ roll mayhem. Expect a show that clocks in at a solid ninety minutes to two hours, packed with non-stop hits and unbridled enthusiasm. This is not a band that does things by halves; they give every ounce of themselves to every single performance, leaving audiences exhilarated and begging for more.

FAQs

Q1: What is The Hives’ typical setlist like? The Hives are known for delivering a high-energy set packed with their most popular hits. You can expect anthems like “Hate to Say I Told You So,” “Walk Idiot Walk,” “Tick Tick Boom,” and “Two-Timing Snake” to be staples. They also often delve into their earlier material and occasionally surprise with deeper cuts, ensuring a dynamic and crowd-pleasing show.

Q2: Is it likely that The Hives will debut new material at this show? While The Hives are known for their extensive and beloved back catalogue, it’s always a possibility that they might tease or debut new material during their live sets, especially if they are working on a new album. However, the primary focus will undoubtedly be on their tried-and-tested rock ‘n’ roll anthems that have made them legends.

Q3: How long does a typical Hives concert last? A standard Hives concert usually lasts for approximately 90 minutes to two hours. They pack a considerable amount of energy and hits into their set, ensuring a full and satisfying experience for the audience without overstaying their welcome.

Q4: What is Pelle Almqvist’s stage presence like? Pelle Almqvist is renowned for his extraordinary stage presence. He’s a charismatic and energetic frontman, known for his flamboyant dance moves, witty and often provocative stage banter, and his ability to connect with and energise the entire audience. He’s a true showman and a key reason why The Hives’ live shows are so memorable.

Q5: Are there any age restrictions for this event? For specific age restrictions at the OVO Hydro Arena, it’s always best to consult the venue’s official website or your ticketing agent. Generally, for rock concerts of this nature, accompanied minors may be permitted, but policies can vary.

Q6: What is the general vibe of a Hives concert? The vibe of a Hives concert is pure, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll exhilaration. It’s loud, it’s fast, it’s incredibly fun, and it’s communal. Expect a high-energy atmosphere with a crowd that’s eager to sing along, dance, and immerse themselves in the raw power of the band. It’s a celebration of rock music at its most vital and exciting.