The Vaccines

The Vaccines Live at O2 Academy Leeds

Get ready, Leeds! The electrifying indie-rock titans, The Vaccines, are set to ignite the stage at the iconic O2 Academy Leeds on Monday, 9 March 2026. This promises to be an unforgettable night of anthemic choruses, blistering guitar riffs, and the raw, unadulterated energy that has cemented The Vaccines’ reputation as one of the UK’s most exhilarating live acts. Prepare to be swept up in a sonic storm as the band delivers a masterclass in indie-rock prowess, a true celebration of their critically acclaimed discography and their unparalleled ability to connect with an audience. Don’t miss your chance to witness this explosive performance in the heart of Leeds.

About The Vaccines

Hailing from London, The Vaccines burst onto the scene in 2011 with their critically lauded debut album, “What Did You Expect from The Vaccines?”. This record immediately set them apart, showcasing a potent blend of garage-rock urgency and melodic pop sensibility. Led by the charismatic Justin Hayward-Young, the band quickly established themselves as purveyors of infectious, feel-good anthems designed for singalongs and energetic live shows. Their subsequent releases, including “Come of Age” (2012), “English Graffiti” (2015), and “Combat Sports” (2018), have seen them evolve and experiment, consistently delivering vital and captivating music.

Throughout their career, The Vaccines have cultivated a reputation for crafting songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. They possess a remarkable knack for writing choruses that burrow into your subconscious and stay there, propelled by driving rhythms and shimmering guitar hooks. Hits like the anthemic “If You Wanna”, the sun-drenched “Wetsuit”, the propulsive “Post Break-Up Sex”, and the more recent fan favourite “All My Love” are testament to their enduring appeal. These tracks, and many more, have soundtracked countless moments for their devoted fanbase, and the prospect of hearing them performed live at the O2 Academy Leeds is a truly exciting one. Their live performances are renowned for their unbridled enthusiasm and unwavering connection with the crowd, making every show a communal celebration of their music.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy Leeds stands as a beacon for live music in the heart of Yorkshire. This historic venue, formerly known as the O2 Academy and before that, the famous Baileys nightclub, boasts a rich musical heritage and a capacity that perfectly balances intimacy with a powerful live atmosphere. Its stage has played host to an incredible array of artists from across the musical spectrum, and its reputation for excellent sound and a vibrant crowd makes it a favourite destination for both bands and fans alike. The O2 Academy Leeds offers a fantastic setting for an energetic night of live music, ensuring a memorable experience for all who attend. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening of pure, unadulterated indie-rock euphoria when The Vaccines take the stage at O2 Academy Leeds. Their live sets are a carefully curated journey through their impressive back catalogue, seamlessly blending fan-favourite anthems with moments of introspective brilliance. Expect a high-octane performance where the energy never dips. The band are renowned for their electrifying stage presence, with Justin Hayward-Young commanding the audience with his captivating vocals and infectious charisma. Guitarists Freddie Cowan and Arni Hjálmtýsson will no doubt be delivering those signature searing guitar solos and intricate riffs that have become a hallmark of their sound, all underpinned by the relentless, driving rhythm section of drummer Pete Robertson and bassist Árni Hjálmtýsson.

The setlist will undoubtedly feature a generous selection of their most beloved hits. You can guarantee that classics like “If You Wanna” will have the entire venue singing along at the top of their lungs, while the more poignant tracks will offer moments of reflection amidst the exhilaration. Expect to hear “Wetsuit”, “Post Break-Up Sex”, and “Nørger” weaving their magic, alongside material from their more recent albums which showcase their continued artistic growth and songwriting prowess. The Vaccines’ live shows are not just about playing songs; they are about creating an experience. The atmosphere is electric, a testament to the band’s ability to forge a genuine connection with their audience. They encourage participation, fostering a sense of unity and shared enjoyment that is rarely found. The set duration will typically be around 90 minutes to 2 hours, filled with encore performances that leave the crowd buzzing and wanting more. This is a band that truly loves playing live, and it shows in every single performance.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Vaccines play their classic hits like “If You Wanna”? A1: Absolutely! The Vaccines are known for delivering a setlist that perfectly balances their fan-favourite anthems with newer material. You can expect them to play all their biggest hits, including the unmissable “If You Wanna,” which is always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Q2: What is The Vaccines’ typical performance style like live? A2: The Vaccines are renowned for their high-energy, electrifying live performances. They bring an incredible sense of passion and enthusiasm to the stage, with Justin Hayward-Young being a captivating frontman. Expect infectious energy, powerful vocals, blistering guitar work, and a real connection with the audience.

Q3: Can I expect to hear songs from their latest album? A3: Yes, The Vaccines consistently perform songs from their most recent releases, showcasing their evolution as artists. While the classics will be present, they are also keen to share their newer material, offering a well-rounded representation of their discography.

Q4: How long is a typical Vaccines set? A4: A standard Vaccines live set typically lasts between 90 minutes and 2 hours, often including an encore. They pack a lot of energy and fantastic songs into their performances, ensuring a memorable experience for the full duration.

Q5: Are The Vaccines known for engaging with their audience during the show? A5: Indeed they are. The Vaccines excel at creating a real sense of community and interaction with their fans during their live shows. They often encourage singalongs and create an atmosphere where everyone feels part of the experience, making their concerts truly special.

Q6: What is the general age demographic of The Vaccines’ live shows? A6: The Vaccines’ music appeals to a broad range of ages, particularly those who grew up with or appreciate indie and alternative rock. Their live shows tend to attract a mix of long-time fans and newer supporters, creating a diverse and enthusiastic crowd.