The Vaccines

The Vaccines Live at O2 Academy Birmingham

Get ready to experience the electrifying energy of one of the UK’s most beloved indie-rock outfits, The Vaccines, as they take to the stage at the iconic O2 Academy Birmingham on Saturday, 7 March 2026. This promises to be an unforgettable night of anthemic choruses, infectious guitar riffs, and pure, unadulterated rock and roll passion. Known for their high-octane live shows and a back catalogue brimming with singalong classics, The Vaccines are set to deliver a performance that will leave the Birmingham crowd buzzing long after the final encore. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exhilarating musical event.

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About The Vaccines

Formed in London in 2010, The Vaccines burst onto the scene with a raw, unpolished energy that immediately captivated audiences. Their debut album, “What Did You Expect from The Vaccines?”, released in 2011, was a critical and commercial success, spawning instant anthems like “If You Wanna,” “Post Break-Up Sex,” and “All in White.” These tracks, characterized by their sharp, catchy guitar lines and Justin Young’s distinctive vocals, cemented their status as indie-rock royalty.

Over the course of their career, The Vaccines have consistently evolved their sound while retaining their core identity. Their sophomore effort, “Come of Age” (2012), showcased a more mature and expansive approach, featuring the beloved single “Teenage Icon.” Subsequent albums like “English Graffiti” (2015) and “Combat Sports” (2018) have seen them experiment with a broader sonic palette, incorporating elements of psychedelia, electronic music, and even heavier rock, without ever losing sight of the hook-laden songwriting that first endeared them to fans. Their most recent album, “Back in Love City” (2021), saw them return to a more vibrant and emotionally resonant sound, earning widespread acclaim. Throughout their journey, The Vaccines have maintained a reputation for delivering blistering live performances, becoming a staple at festivals and sold-out shows across the globe. Their commitment to crafting powerful, uplifting songs that resonate deeply with their audience remains unwavering, making each of their gigs a celebration of community and shared musical joy.

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Venue Information

The O2 Academy Birmingham is a legendary live music venue situated in the heart of Birmingham. Boasting a rich history of hosting world-class artists, this atmospheric space provides an intimate yet energetic setting perfect for experiencing the raw power of The Vaccines. With its renowned acoustics and vibrant atmosphere, the O2 Academy Birmingham guarantees an exceptional live music experience for every attendee. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

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What to Expect

Prepare for an electrifying evening as The Vaccines unleash their signature blend of anthemic indie rock upon Birmingham. Their live shows are renowned for their sheer, unadulterated energy. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves together their most cherished hits with newer material, ensuring a dynamic and exhilarating journey through their impressive discography. From the moment they hit the stage, the band’s palpable enthusiasm is infectious, immediately drawing the audience into their world.

You can anticipate a setlist that will undoubtedly feature crowd-pleasing anthems like “If You Wanna,” “Post Break-Up Sex,” and “All in White,” guaranteed to have the entire O2 Academy Birmingham singing along at the top of their lungs. But don’t be surprised if they also delve into the infectious melodies of “Teenage Icon,” the driving force of “Tiger Blood,” or the euphoric highs of tracks from their more recent albums. The Vaccines have a knack for crafting a setlist that builds momentum, taking the audience on an emotional rollercoaster that culminates in a triumphant and memorable finale.

Their performance style is characterized by a relentless energy. Lead singer Justin Young commands the stage with his charismatic presence, his vocals soaring over the driving instrumentation. The interplay between the guitars is always a highlight, delivering those iconic, shimmering riffs that have become synonymous with the band. Drummer Johanusepackage Persson lays down a thunderous rhythm, providing the unshakeable backbone for their energetic sound, while bassist Arni Cartwright and guitarist Freddie Cowan create a powerful and dynamic sonic landscape. Expect raw, passionate vocals, tight musicianship, and an undeniable connection with the crowd. The Vaccines are not just a band performing songs; they are a force of nature, and their live shows are an immersive experience. While the exact duration of the set can vary, fans can expect a full and satisfying performance, typically running for around 90 minutes to two hours, including a dynamic encore that will leave you wanting more. This is more than just a concert; it’s a communal celebration of fantastic music and an unforgettable night out.

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FAQs

Q1: Will The Vaccines be playing songs from their debut album, “What Did You Expect from The Vaccines”? A1: Absolutely! “What Did You Expect from The Vaccines?” is a cornerstone of their live set, and you can be sure to hear fan favourites like “If You Wanna,” “Post Break-Up Sex,” and “All in White” that made the album such a monumental success. The band knows these are the songs everyone wants to sing along to, and they always deliver.

Q2: Can I expect to hear newer material alongside the classics? A2: Yes, The Vaccines are known for balancing their iconic hits with newer tracks. Their recent albums have seen them continue to evolve their sound, and they are keen to showcase the breadth of their musical journey. Expect a well-rounded setlist that celebrates their entire career, including exciting selections from their latest releases.

Q3: What is The Vaccines’ general performance style like live? A3: The Vaccines are renowned for their high-energy, passionate live performances. Lead singer Justin Young is incredibly charismatic on stage, and the band delivers their infectious indie-rock anthems with a relentless drive. Expect a show filled with powerful riffs, singalong choruses, and an electric atmosphere that connects with the audience. They truly know how to put on a show.

Q4: How long does a typical Vaccines concert last? A4: A standard Vaccines live set typically runs for approximately 90 minutes to two hours, including an encore. This allows them ample time to play a comprehensive selection of their hits and newer material, ensuring a satisfying and memorable experience for all attendees.

Q5: Will there be merchandise available at the venue? A5: Yes, it is highly likely that official The Vaccines merchandise, including t-shirts, vinyl, and other memorabilia, will be available for purchase at the O2 Academy Birmingham on the night of the concert. It’s always a good idea to check the band’s official website or social media closer to the date for any specific details on merchandise.

Q6: Can I expect any surprise guests or special collaborations during The Vaccines’ set? A6: While The Vaccines are a formidable force on their own, surprise collaborations are rare but not entirely out of the question for such a dynamic band. However, their standard live shows are built around their powerful four-piece unit, and the focus is on delivering their own electrifying performance. Any special guests would be an added bonus rather than a standard expectation.