The Smyths

The Smyths Live at O2 Academy Bournemouth

Get ready for an unforgettable night as the UK’s premier Smiths tribute, The Smyths, descend upon Bournemouth! On Friday, 19th December 2025, the O2 Academy Bournemouth will be transformed into a shrine to Manchester’s most iconic and melancholic band. This isn’t just a tribute; it’s a passionate recreation of the raw energy, the lyrical genius, and the unforgettable atmosphere that defined The Smiths. Prepare to be transported back to the golden age of indie, as The Smyths deliver a performance that captures the essence of Morrissey’s poetic lamentations and Johnny Marr’s dazzling guitar wizardry. Whether you’re a lifelong devotee or a curious newcomer, this is your chance to experience the magic of The Smiths, meticulously brought to life by artists who live and breathe their music.

About The Smyths

For over two decades, The Smyths have stood as the undisputed champions of Smiths tribute acts, earning acclaim not just from dedicated fans but also from those who witnessed The Smiths firsthand. Formed with a singular mission to authentically replicate the sound and spirit of the legendary Manchester quartet, The Smyths have dedicated themselves to mastering every nuance of their idols’ performances. Their commitment is evident in every note, every vocal inflection, and every iconic guitar riff.

The band comprises musicians who are not only exceptionally talented but also deeply knowledgeable and passionate about The Smiths’ extensive catalogue. They have meticulously studied the band’s live performances, from their early, incendiary gigs to their stadium-filling finales, absorbing the very essence of their stage presence and musical chemistry. This dedication allows them to deliver a live show that is both a faithful reproduction and a vibrant celebration.

The Smyths’ setlists are a carefully curated journey through The Smiths’ illustrious career, spanning their four studio albums and beyond. Audiences can expect to hear the anthemic singalongs that cemented The Smiths’ place in musical history. Hits such as the enduringly popular “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” the biting social commentary of “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now,” the joyous, yet yearning, “This Charming Man,” and the introspective beauty of “How Soon Is Now?” are staples of their electrifying performances. They also delve into fan favourites like “Ask,” “Bigmouth Strikes Again,” and the poignant “I Know It’s Over,” ensuring a comprehensive and emotionally resonant experience for all.

The precision with which The Smyths recreate the distinctive guitar textures of Johnny Marr is particularly noteworthy. Their lead guitarist masterfully captures the jangly, intricate melodies and the driving, arpeggiated patterns that were the hallmark of Marr’s innovative playing. Coupled with a vocalist who embodies the theatrical delivery and melancholic charm of Morrissey, and a rhythm section that locks into the precise groove of Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce, The Smyths achieve an uncanny likeness. They don’t just play the songs; they embody the spirit of The Smiths, creating an atmosphere that is both deeply nostalgic and thrillingly present. Their reputation for authenticity and passion has made them a must-see act for anyone who cherishes the enduring legacy of one of Britain’s greatest bands.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy Bournemouth is a renowned live music venue situated in the heart of the vibrant seaside town of Bournemouth. Boasting a rich history of hosting a diverse range of musical acts, from emerging artists to established international stars, the O2 Academy Bournemouth offers an intimate yet energetic setting for live performances. Its versatile space is well-equipped to deliver a powerful sound and light experience, ensuring that every concertgoer is immersed in the music. With its accessible location and reputation for fostering a fantastic atmosphere, the O2 Academy Bournemouth is the perfect stage for The Smyths to bring their distinctive sound to the south coast. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a meticulously crafted performance that aims to transport you directly to the era of The Smiths. The Smyths are renowned for their commitment to authenticity, not just in replicating the iconic sound, but also in capturing the palpable energy and emotional resonance of The Smiths’ live shows.

The setlist is a carefully curated journey through the band’s essential material, designed to satisfy both ardent fans and those discovering the magic for the first time. You can anticipate a generous helping of their most beloved anthems. Expect the roof-raising chorus of “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” a track that consistently elicits mass singalongs and heartfelt camaraderie. The biting wit and infectious guitar riff of “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” will undoubtedly have the crowd on their feet, while the shimmering, propulsive energy of “This Charming Man” is guaranteed to incite joyous movement.

Beyond these titans, The Smyths delve into the deeper cuts and fan favourites that showcase the full breadth of The Smiths’ artistry. The ethereal, reverb-drenched soundscape of “How Soon Is Now?” is a particular highlight, building to a hypnotic crescendo that captivates the audience. Prepare for the raw vulnerability of “I Know It’s Over,” a performance that showcases the emotional depth The Smyths are capable of. Other anticipated tracks include the anthemic “Bigmouth Strikes Again,” the optimistic yet melancholic “Ask,” and the deeply affecting “What Difference Does It Make?” Their setlists are dynamic, often including surprises and deeper album cuts, ensuring that each show feels unique and special.

The performance style of The Smyths is characterized by a profound respect for the source material. Their lead guitarist possesses an uncanny ability to replicate Johnny Marr’s distinctive guitar work – the intricate arpeggios, the shimmering chords, and the melodic hooks that are instantly recognisable. The vocalist channels the spirit of Morrissey, delivering the lyrics with a compelling blend of wry observation, dramatic flair, and vulnerable sincerity. The rhythm section provides the solid foundation that defined The Smiths’ sound, ensuring the driving basslines and precise drumming are impeccably reproduced.

This is not a band that merely mimics; they interpret and perform the songs with a passion that reflects their genuine adoration for The Smiths. The atmosphere created is one of shared experience, a collective immersion in the music that brought so many together. The Smyths aim to evoke the feeling of being at a Smiths concert, with the raw emotion, the intelligent lyrics, and the unforgettable melodies washing over you. The typical performance duration for The Smyths is around two hours, including an interval, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of The Smiths’ incredible discography. Prepare for an evening of pure indie nostalgia, delivered with exceptional skill and heartfelt dedication.

FAQs

Q1: How accurately do The Smyths capture the vocal style of Morrissey? The Smyths’ lead singer is renowned for his remarkable ability to emulate Morrissey’s distinctive vocal delivery. He studies the nuances of Morrissey’s phrasing, the emotional weight he imbues in each lyric, and the theatricality that defined his stage presence. While not an imitation, it’s a performance that honours the original, capturing the melancholic charm and poetic delivery that made Morrissey’s vocals so iconic.

Q2: Will The Smyths play songs from all of The Smiths’ studio albums? Absolutely. The Smyths pride themselves on offering a comprehensive journey through The Smiths’ relatively short but incredibly impactful recording career. You can expect to hear seminal tracks from “The Smiths,” “Meat Is Murder,” “The Queen Is Dead,” and “Strangeways, Here We Come.” They are also known to delve into beloved singles and B-sides that are cherished by fans.

Q3: How does the guitarist replicate Johnny Marr’s complex guitar work? The guitarist in The Smyths possesses a deep understanding and technical mastery of Johnny Marr’s innovative playing style. He meticulously recreates the jangly Rickenbacker sounds, the intricate arpeggios, the shimmering chord progressions, and the melodic lead lines that were central to The Smiths’ sound. His performance is not just about hitting the right notes, but about capturing the feel and texture of Marr’s legendary guitar artistry.

Q4: Is it possible to request specific songs from The Smyths? While The Smyths have a meticulously planned setlist that draws from their most popular and critically acclaimed material, they do occasionally take audience requests if they are within their extensive repertoire and fit the flow of the show. It’s always worth asking politely, but be prepared for them to play the hits that make their shows so memorable.

Q5: What is the general atmosphere like at a The Smyths concert? The atmosphere at a The Smyths concert is typically electric and deeply communal. Fans often dress in Smiths-inspired attire, and there’s a palpable sense of shared nostalgia and appreciation for the music. Expect a lot of enthusiastic singing along, dancing, and a general feeling of joy and camaraderie among those who have come together to celebrate one of Britain’s most cherished bands.

Q6: How long has The Smyths been performing as a tribute act? The Smyths have been performing their tribute to The Smiths for over two decades. Their longevity is a testament to their dedication, the quality of their musicianship, and their unwavering commitment to authentically recreating the magic of The Smiths, making them one of the most established and respected tribute acts in the UK.