The Vaccines

The Vaccines Live at O2 Academy Glasgow

Get ready to ignite your senses as indie-rock titans The Vaccines descend upon Glasgow for an unforgettable night of electrifying music! On Saturday, 28 February 2026, the iconic O2 Academy Glasgow will play host to one of the most dynamic and beloved bands to emerge from the UK scene in the last decade. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an opportunity to witness a band at the peak of their powers, delivering a potent blend of anthemic singalongs, raw energy, and infectious melodies that have captivated audiences worldwide. Prepare for a sonic explosion as The Vaccines bring their signature blend of urgent guitars, soaring choruses, and frontman Justin Young’s distinctive vocal delivery to the heart of Glasgow. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or discovering their infectious sound for the first time, this promises to be an evening brimming with pure, unadulterated rock and roll joy.

About The Vaccines

Since bursting onto the scene in 2010 with their critically acclaimed debut album, What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?, the London-based quartet has carved out a distinctive niche in the indie-rock landscape. Comprising Justin Young (vocals, guitar), Freddie Cowan (guitar), Árni Hjörvar (bass), and Pete Robertson (drums), The Vaccines have consistently delivered a sound that is both instantly recognisable and refreshingly diverse. Their early work was lauded for its energetic, no-holds-barred punk-infused indie, epitomised by blistering tracks like “If You Wanna” and “Post Break-Up Sex,” which became instant fan favourites and festival staples.

Over the course of their career, The Vaccines have demonstrated a remarkable ability to evolve their sound without sacrificing their core identity. Their sophomore effort, Come of Age, showcased a more mature and introspective side, while still retaining that signature anthemic quality. Albums like English Graffiti delved into richer sonic textures and more ambitious song structures, proving their artistic growth and willingness to experiment. Their most recent offering, Back in Love City, saw them embrace a more expansive, almost cinematic sound, blending their indie roots with disco inflections and synth-pop flourishes, proving their enduring relevance and creative drive. Throughout their discography, The Vaccines have consistently produced a string of indelible hits that resonate with a generation. Tracks such as the instantly catchy “Wetsuit,” the driving “Handsome,” and the more recent shimmering “Headphones Baby” all stand testament to their songwriting prowess. Their music possesses an innate ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level, whether it’s through tales of youthful exuberance, heartfelt introspection, or unbridled celebration. With a reputation for delivering electrifying live performances, The Vaccines are more than just a band; they are a force of nature, ready to captivate the O2 Academy Glasgow.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy Glasgow stands as a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant live music scene, a historic and purpose-built venue renowned for its excellent acoustics and electric atmosphere. Located conveniently in the heart of Glasgow, it has hosted countless legendary artists across a vast spectrum of genres, making it a beloved destination for music lovers. With its tiered seating and standing floor, the venue offers a fantastic experience for every fan, ensuring clear sightlines and an immersive auditory journey. For complete venue details, including accessibility information, bar services, and travel advice, please refer to our comprehensive venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a high-octane performance from The Vaccines that will leave you breathless and exhilarated. Known for their electrifying stage presence, the band consistently delivers a setlist that is a masterclass in indie-rock dynamism. Expect a generous sprinkling of their most beloved anthems from across their career. Early fan favourites like the explosive “If You Wanna” and the infectious “Post Break-Up Sex” are almost guaranteed to have the entire O2 Academy Glasgow singing along at the top of their lungs. You can also anticipate tracks from their acclaimed debut, such as the anthemic “Wetsuit” and the driving “The Family,” which continue to be staples of their live shows, showcasing their raw, unadulterated energy.

As they’ve evolved, so too have their live offerings. Prepare for the soaring melodies and introspective brilliance of tracks like “Handsome” and “All in White,” which demonstrate their growth as songwriters and performers. More recent fan favourites, such as the shimmering, synth-infused “Headphones Baby” from Back in Love City, will likely feature, showcasing their continued ability to innovate and captivate. The Vaccines’ performance style is characterised by an unwavering commitment to energy. Justin Young is a captivating frontman, a whirling dervish of charisma and intensity, while Freddie Cowan’s guitar work is sharp, precise, and undeniably thrilling. The rhythm section, comprised of Árni Hjörvar and Pete Robertson, provides a thunderous and unwavering foundation, driving the band forward with relentless power. Expect a set that moves at breakneck speed, punctuated by moments of genuine connection and singalong euphoria. While setlists can vary, a typical Vaccines show lasts approximately 90 minutes to two hours, packed with more than enough electrifying moments to satisfy every fan.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Vaccines play songs from all of their albums? A1: The Vaccines are renowned for treating their fans to a comprehensive journey through their discography. While their setlists are subject to change, it’s highly probable that you’ll hear beloved tracks spanning their entire career, from the explosive debut What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? right through to their more recent material. They are fantastic at balancing fan favourites with newer gems.

Q2: What is The Vaccines’ typical live show like? A2: Expect an energetic and exhilarating performance. The Vaccines are known for their high-octane stage presence, with Justin Young being a particularly dynamic frontman. Their shows are characterised by driving rhythms, soaring guitar riffs, and anthemic choruses that encourage mass singalongs. It’s a full-throttle indie-rock experience from start to finish.

Q3: Are there likely to be any special guests at the show? A3: While The Vaccines are a formidable force on their own, special guests are not typically a feature of their standard headline shows. Their performances are focused on delivering their own exceptional material with maximum impact.

Q4: What are some of The Vaccines’ most popular live songs? A4: Based on their extensive touring history, songs like “If You Wanna,” “Post Break-Up Sex,” “Handsome,” “Wetsuit,” and “All in White” are almost always crowd-pleasers and highly anticipated. More recent tracks like “Headphones Baby” also tend to go down very well.

Q5: How long does a typical Vaccines concert last? A5: A standard headline set from The Vaccines usually runs for approximately 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring a substantial and satisfying musical experience packed with their biggest hits and high-energy performances.

Q6: Can I expect The Vaccines to play any new material? A6: While we can’t guarantee it, bands often road-test new material during tours. If The Vaccines have new music in the works, there’s always a possibility you might hear a sneak peek at the O2 Academy Glasgow. Keep an ear out!