The Smyths

The Smyths Live at O2 Ritz Manchester

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable night as The Smyths, the UK’s premier tribute to the legendary The Smiths, descend upon the iconic O2 Ritz Manchester on Saturday, 1 November 2025. This isn’t just another tribute band; The Smyths meticulously recreate the raw emotion, the jangly guitar riffs, and the distinct vocal delivery that defined one of Britain’s most influential bands. For die-hard fans and newcomers alike, this promises to be a journey back to the golden age of Mancunian indie, an evening steeped in nostalgia and pure musical brilliance. The O2 Ritz Manchester, a venue steeped in its own musical history, provides the perfect atmospheric backdrop for an event that aims to capture the very essence of The Smiths’ enduring legacy. Get ready to sing along to anthems that have resonated with generations and experience the magic of a band that continues to inspire.

About The Smyths

For over a decade, The Smyths have been hailed as the definitive tribute to The Smiths, a testament to their unwavering dedication and authentic performance. Formed by a group of passionate musicians who grew up idolising Morrissey, Marr, Rourke, and Joyce, the band has meticulously studied and perfected every nuance of their heroes’ sound and stage presence. They don’t merely play the songs; they inhabit them, channelling the melancholic beauty and acerbic wit that made The Smiths so unique.

From their early days honing their craft in intimate venues to gracing larger stages across the UK and beyond, The Smyths have earned a formidable reputation for their live shows. Their commitment to authenticity is evident in every aspect of their performance, from the precise guitar work that mirrors Johnny Marr’s iconic arpeggios to the poignant vocal stylings that capture Morrissey’s distinctive cadence. They painstakingly replicate the sonic landscape of The Smiths, ensuring that the rich tapestry of layered guitars, driving basslines, and precise drumming is delivered with remarkable accuracy.

Their setlists are a masterclass in Smiths fandom, featuring an expansive repertoire that draws from the band’s prolific discography. No Smiths fan will be disappointed as they delve into the anthems that soundtracked a generation. Expect to hear the electrifying energy of “This Charming Man,” the wistful introspection of “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” the biting social commentary of “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now,” and the soaring romanticism of “How Soon Is Now?”. They masterfully weave together the hits that dominated the charts with deeper cuts cherished by dedicated followers, creating a setlist that feels both familiar and exhilaratingly fresh. The Smyths understand that it’s not just about hitting the right notes, but about evoking the feeling, the spirit, and the unforgettable atmosphere that The Smiths themselves created. Their dedication has seen them become a must-see for anyone yearning to relive the magic of one of Britain’s most beloved and influential bands.

Venue Information

The O2 Ritz Manchester, a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant music scene, offers a truly iconic setting for this special event. With its art deco charm and renowned acoustics, the venue has hosted countless legendary performances throughout its history. Its intimate yet grand atmosphere is perfectly suited to capturing the raw energy and emotional depth of The Smyths’ tribute. Prepare to be immersed in a night of exceptional live music within a space that breathes its own musical heritage. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening that transcends mere tribute and ventures into an almost spectral evocation of The Smiths. The Smyths are renowned for their dedication to capturing not just the sound, but the very soul of their inspirations. Expect a meticulously crafted setlist that flows seamlessly, moving from the infectious energy of their early singles to the more complex and poignant works of their later albums.

Highlights will undoubtedly include the anthemic roar of “Bigmouth Strikes Again,” a track that perfectly encapsulates the band’s rebellious spirit and will undoubtedly set the O2 Ritz alight. Equally anticipated are the moments of quiet introspection, where the poignant lyrics of “I Know It’s Over” will undoubtedly hang heavy in the air, drawing collective sighs and impassioned singalongs from the audience. The yearning crescendo of “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” is practically guaranteed to be a communal outpouring of emotion, a testament to the enduring power of these songs. You can also anticipate the sharp, angular guitar work of “This Charming Man” and the atmospheric, reverberating genius of “How Soon Is Now?” to be delivered with an electrifying precision that will send shivers down your spine.

The performance style of The Smyths is characterized by an almost uncanny resemblance to the original band. Their lead singer channels the distinctive vocal inflections, the dramatic gestures, and the melancholic charm that made Morrissey a unique frontman. The guitarists replicate Johnny Marr’s intricate, layered playing with astonishing accuracy, weaving melodic lines that are instantly recognisable. The rhythm section provides a solid, driving foundation, perfectly mirroring the interplay between Andy Rourke’s melodic basslines and Mike Joyce’s precise drumming. Beyond the sonic replication, The Smyths understand the importance of stage presence. They aim to recreate the palpable energy and sometimes awkward, yet always compelling, dynamic that defined The Smiths’ live shows. The overall duration of the performance is expected to be around two hours, including a short interval, allowing ample time for a comprehensive exploration of The Smiths’ most beloved material and ensuring a truly immersive experience.

FAQs

Q1: Are The Smyths an exact replica of The Smiths, or is this a modern interpretation? The Smyths are dedicated to providing an authentic recreation of The Smiths’ live performances. Their focus is on replicating the sound, musicality, and stage presence of the original band as accurately as possible. While they bring their own passion and energy to the stage, their aim is to evoke the spirit and experience of seeing The Smiths live in their prime, rather than offering a modern reinterpretation.

Q2: What kind of songs can I expect The Smyths to play? Will it just be the hits? The Smyths are renowned for their comprehensive setlists. While they will undoubtedly perform all of The Smiths’ most iconic hits – such as “This Charming Man,” “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” and “How Soon Is Now?” – they also delve into deeper cuts and fan favourites from across The Smiths’ studio albums. Their setlists are carefully curated to provide a satisfying experience for both casual listeners and the most devoted followers, showcasing the breadth and depth of The Smiths’ remarkable catalogue.

Q3: How closely does the lead singer capture Morrissey’s vocal style and stage presence? The lead singer of The Smyths has spent years studying and mastering Morrissey’s unique vocal delivery, capturing his distinctive phrasing, intonation, and melancholic tone. Beyond the vocals, they also strive to embody Morrissey’s characteristic stage presence, including his mannerisms and interaction with the audience, all while maintaining their own authentic performance.

Q4: Is it possible to request specific songs for The Smyths to play? While The Smyths are known for their well-prepared setlists that aim to please the majority of fans, individual song requests during the performance are generally not accommodated. Their focus is on delivering a polished and cohesive show that honours the original band’s output. However, the sheer variety and quality of songs they typically perform mean that most attendees will hear their favourite tracks.

Q5: What is the general atmosphere like at a The Smyths concert? The atmosphere at a The Smyths concert is typically one of joyous nostalgia and communal celebration. Fans often come together to sing along passionately to every word, creating a powerful shared experience. You can expect a vibrant, energetic crowd united by their love for The Smiths’ music, all captivated by the authentic and compelling performance on stage. It’s a chance to relive the golden era of indie music with fellow enthusiasts.

Q6: Will The Smyths be performing any other Smiths material besides songs from the studio albums? The Smyths primarily focus on material released by The Smiths during their official career, encompassing their studio albums and key singles. While they may occasionally incorporate well-known B-sides or live staples that were part of The Smiths’ live sets, their core repertoire is drawn from the band’s officially released studio output, ensuring a faithful representation of their recorded legacy.