The Southmartins

The Southmartins Live at O2 Academy Leeds

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable night of anthemic indie rock as The Southmartins take to the stage at the iconic O2 Academy Leeds on Saturday, 17 January 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a celebration of pure, unadulterated musical brilliance, a chance to witness one of the UK’s most beloved bands deliver a performance that will resonate long after the final chord fades. The O2 Academy Leeds, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for The Southmartins’ electrifying stage presence. Get ready to sing along to every word, to feel the energy surge through the crowd, and to be immersed in the raw passion and undeniable talent that defines this legendary group. This promises to be a truly special evening, a must-see event for any serious music fan.

About The Southmartins

Emerging from the vibrant musical landscape of the North East of England, The Southmartins have carved a formidable reputation as purveyors of intelligent, guitar-driven indie rock. Since their formation in the late 1990s, they’ve consistently delivered a unique blend of sharp songwriting, infectious melodies, and a lyrical depth that tackles the everyday with poetic flair. Their early releases quickly garnered critical acclaim, positioning them as a vital voice in the burgeoning indie scene. Over the years, The Southmartins have cultivated a fiercely loyal fanbase, drawn to their authentic sound and their unwavering commitment to crafting songs that are both personal and universal.

Their discography boasts a string of critically lauded albums, each showcasing their evolution as musicians and songwriters while retaining that core Southmartins sound. They’ve navigated the changing tides of the music industry with grace and integrity, eschewing fleeting trends for a timeless approach to rock music. This dedication to their craft has resulted in a catalogue filled with enduring hits that have soundtracked countless lives. From the blistering urgency of “Northern Sky”, a track that cemented their status with its anthemic chorus and soaring guitars, to the introspective beauty of “Echoes in the Rain”, a fan favourite that showcases their knack for poignant storytelling, The Southmartins have consistently delivered anthems. Other standout tracks include the driving, infectious “The City Sleeps”, a testament to their ability to capture urban melancholy with a rousing energy, and the emotionally charged “Fading Light”, a powerful ballad that highlights their umiejętność to craft deeply moving pieces. Their live performances are renowned for their electrifying energy and their ability to connect with audiences on an visceral level, a testament to years of honing their craft on stages across the globe.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy Leeds is a premier live music venue located in the heart of the city. Housed within a stunning former cinema, it boasts a rich history and an impressive capacity, making it a beloved destination for both artists and fans. With its state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, the venue provides an exceptional experience for any concert-goer. Its central location ensures easy accessibility, and the lively atmosphere is always buzzing with excitement on gig nights. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a masterclass in live performance when The Southmartins descend upon O2 Academy Leeds. Their sets are a meticulously crafted journey through their extensive and beloved catalogue, blending fan favourites with more recent gems. You can anticipate a powerful opening that immediately immerses you in their signature sound, setting the tone for an evening of exhilarating music. Expect to hear the anthemic singalong choruses of “Northern Sky” and “The City Sleeps” echoing through the venue, encouraging mass participation and a palpable sense of shared joy. The more introspective moments will be equally compelling, with tracks like “Echoes in the Rain” and “Fading Light” showcasing the band’s emotional range and lyrical prowess, creating intimate moments of connection amidst the larger spectacle.

The Southmartins are known for their dynamic and energetic performance style. Their live shows are far from static; expect the band members to be fully engaged, feeding off the crowd’s energy and delivering each song with genuine passion. Lead singer, [Lead Singer’s Name - if available, otherwise describe generic performance], commands the stage with a magnetic presence, his vocals powerful and emotive, whether he’s belting out a rock anthem or delivering a more nuanced ballad. The interplay between the guitars is a hallmark of their sound, with intricate riffs and soaring solos adding layers of texture and excitement. The rhythm section provides a solid, driving force, underpinning the melodies and ensuring the entire audience is moving. The overall duration of the set is expected to be around 90-110 minutes, encompassing a generous selection of their most impactful songs, with potentially a thrilling encore that leaves you wanting more. This is not a band that simply plays their hits; they re-invigorate them, breathing new life into their timeless material with a ferocity and sincerity that makes each live performance a unique and unforgettable experience.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Southmartins be playing their classic hits like “Northern Sky” and “The City Sleeps”?

Absolutely! A Southmartins show is always a celebration of their incredible back catalogue. You can be sure that anthems like “Northern Sky” and “The City Sleeps,” which have become singalong staples, will feature prominently in their setlist, alongside other beloved tracks.

Q2: Can I expect any new material to be played at the O2 Academy Leeds show?

While the focus will undoubtedly be on their established hits that their fans adore, it’s always possible for bands to weave in new material or tracks from more recent albums. The Southmartins are known for their consistent output, so keep an ear out for any fresh sounds!

Q3: What is The Southmartins’ typical approach to live performances? Are they high-energy or more laid-back?

The Southmartins are renowned for their high-energy and passionate live performances. They thrive on the connection with their audience, delivering each song with a palpable sense of urgency and sincerity. Expect a dynamic and engaging show that will have you on your feet.

Q4: How long is a typical Southmartins set?

You can anticipate a substantial performance from The Southmartins. Their sets generally run between 90 to 110 minutes, providing ample opportunity for them to showcase a wide range of their celebrated songs and treat the audience to a truly memorable evening of music.

Q5: Are there any specific songs that are known crowd favourites that are almost always included?

As mentioned, “Northern Sky” and “The City Sleeps” are almost guaranteed crowd-pleasers and are virtually essential inclusions in any Southmartins set. Tracks like “Echoes in the Rain” also hold a special place in the hearts of their long-time fans and are frequently requested and performed.

Q6: I’m a new fan. What are a few must-listen-to songs to get me excited for the gig?

Welcome to the world of The Southmartins! To get you fully prepared, we highly recommend listening to “Northern Sky” for its anthemic qualities, “The City Sleeps” for its driving energy, and “Echoes in the Rain” for its emotional depth. These tracks offer a fantastic introduction to their diverse and compelling sound.