Oasis returned to the stage in a highly anticipated reunion tour that kicked off in Cardiff, captivating fans with a setlist filled with classic hits and fan favorites. The show opened what would be the first official tour date for Noel and Liam Gallaghers’ separate musical careers. Their tumultuous connection has led to much rumor-hounding and salad tossing over the years.
The energy and optimism in the air was palpable as thousands streamed into the convention center. Their excitement was palpable to finally see—and hear—the legendary band live in action again. Music journalist Laura Snapes was in attendance and filmed the scene inside that night, perfectly capturing the electric joy in the air. No wonder fans were excitedly anticipating the Gallagher brothers’ reunion. As you can see, they haven’t played together for decades due to their highly publicized and chronic feud.
Hamish MacBain is the co-author, along with Ted Kessler, of a terrific new book about Oasis. He reflected on the band’s legacy and cultural significance on music today. As he mingled with other fans, listening to others and sharing his own personal stories and reflections, his experiences brought a new depth to the evening.
Liam Gallagher, known for his charismatic stage presence, entertained the crowd while sporting a unique camera fixed to his microphone, providing an unusual view of his performance. The audience reveled in his banter, including lines like, “How you getting on then, alright? You’re looking good. Especially you there. Stunning. Fucking stunning.”
Noel and Liam Gallagher performing together, but apart, at One Love Manchester. They didn’t look at each other even once. This distance only served to underscore the underlying tension that has marked their relationship for years. Fans were of course excited and immediately began speculating what it might take for the brothers to get back together.
The diverse setlist for the night brought us on an even more nostalgic trip down memory lane. We rocked out to all the old faves, like “Stand By Me,” “Be Here Now,” “Cigarettes & Alcohol” and “Some Might Say.” One specific new song was “Little By Little,” a significant sign of promise from their 1990s catalogue. The concert featured a deeply moving rendition of “Slide Away,” which struck a very emotional chord with original fans.
Joey Waronker has drummed for Oasis and collaborated with artists as diverse as Thom Yorke and Roger Waters. He provided a raucous support staff for the execution. His presence next to fellow guitarist, Gem Archer, who came to be in Oasis under similar circumstances, contributed to the band’s powerful and ferocious sound.
The use of advanced 5G technology allowed fans to enjoy a live stream of the concert, bringing the performance directly to those unable to attend in person. This exciting new approach couldn’t help but demonstrate the potential for technology to unlock powerful new benefits to enjoying live music.
As the energy built throughout the concert, Liam continued to engage with the audience, asking rhetorically, “What’s happening? Everyone having a good time yeah? Is it worth the £4,000 you paid for a ticket?” His lighthearted banter contributed to a feeling of community among everyone in attendance.
The night came to a head with an emotional performance of “Slide Away,” during which Noel Gallagher sang, “let me be the one” to his younger brother. In many ways, this moment summed up everything that made Oasis such an endearing band across the globe—a glorious sense of togetherness and candid vulnerability.