Oasis Makes a Triumphant Comeback After 16 Years, Reigniting 90s Nostalgia in a Thrilled U.K. Audience

Oasis returns after 16-year hiatus to a U.K. crowd ecstatic for the band's 1990s hits

Oasis Kicks Off Highly Anticipated Tour with a Powerful Reunion Performance

As a series of headlines chronicling the tumultuous relationship between the Gallagher brothers faded, Oasis took the stage to an ecstatic crowd, opening their set with the aptly titled “Hello” and its inviting refrain, “it’s good to be back.”

The siblings, who have often had a complicated relationship, shared a brief moment holding hands but otherwise maintained a distance during the performance. Noel Gallagher, now 58, concentrated on his guitar work, while a parka-clad Liam, age 52, delivered vocals with the same bravado that has characterized his performances since the release of their debut album, “Definitely Maybe,” three decades ago.

The more than 60,000 attendees at Principality Stadium enjoyed a meticulously crafted two-hour show, heavily featuring songs from “Definitely Maybe” and its 1995 successor, “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory.” The setlist also included a selection of later hits and beloved B-sides.

Classic tracks like “Supersonic,” “Roll With It,” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Star” resonated through the stadium, igniting enthusiastic sing-alongs among fans. “Turn around,” Liam urged the audience before diving into “Cigarettes and Alcohol,” another fan favorite. “Put your arms over each other like you love each other,” he added, encouraging camaraderie.

A moment of solemnity emerged during the performance of “Live Forever,” as an image of Liverpool Football Club’s Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident earlier that week, was displayed above the band.

Noel led the vocals on several songs, including the heartfelt “Half the World Away,” and the concert concluded with encore performances of some of Oasis’s most iconic tracks: “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” “Wonderwall,” and “Champagne Supernova.”

Visually, the show was enriched by multicolored and occasionally psychedelic projections, although the focus remained firmly on the music, with minimal dialogue. Liam took moments between songs to engage with the crowd, even humorously asking at one point, “Was it worth the 40,000 pounds you paid for the ticket?” referencing the high prices fans faced in securing their spot.

‘An Unforgettable Experience’

The performance in Cardiff marks the beginning of a 19-date Live ’25 tour across the UK and Ireland, with plans to continue to North America, South America, Asia, and Australia, culminating in São Paulo on November 23.

Before the concert, fans gathered outside the stadium in droves, singing along to classic tunes and purchasing Oasis-themed bucket hats priced at 35 pounds ($48) each.

“It’s very, very special — emotional,” expressed 44-year-old Rob Maule from Edinburgh. “I’m here with three childhood friends; we used to catch Oasis shows across the country together. It connects generations, especially as many are now bringing their children along.”

Vicki Moynehan traveled from Dorchester in southwestern England, confident that her condition wouldn’t deter her from attending the show. “Seven months pregnant — ain’t gonna stop me,” she declared.

Celebrated Roots in Rock

Founded in the working-class streets of Manchester in 1991, Oasis emerged as a defining force in British music during the 1990s, producing eight albums that reached No. 1 on the UK charts.

Their signature sound, driven by infectious rock choruses, stemmed from the dynamic partnership between songwriter and guitarist Noel Gallagher, who drew inspiration from the likes of The Beatles and glam rock, and his younger brother Liam.

Throughout their careers, the brothers have been known for their public spats, whether on stage or in interviews. Notably, Liam once referred to Noel as “tofu boy,” and Noel described Liam as “the angriest man you’ll ever meet,” likening him to “a man with a fork in a world of soup.”

Anticipation and Controversy

The announcement of the UK tour in August generated significant excitement, leading to heavy demand and a series of challenges with ticket purchases, including virtual queues, error messages, and spikes in prices.

Complaints surfaced from fans who, after waiting hours online, found themselves paying 355 pounds ($485) for general admission tickets, far exceeding the expected price of 148 pounds ($202).

These ticketing issues prompted discussions in UK Parliament, where Arts Minister Chris Bryant criticized such practices that catch fans off guard. The UK’s competition regulator has since warned Ticketmaster, the company that sold approximately 900,000 Oasis tickets, of potential legal action.

Currently, there are no announcements regarding new music from Oasis, and the tour is being positioned as a unique event. Music journalist John Aizlewood suggested that this could be a vital moment for Oasis to reinforce their legacy and showcase the enduring affection fans have for them.

“The shows should invoke a sense of joy and affirmation of life,” he noted. “There’s a lasting love for Oasis — and love translates to financial success.”

Fans were resolute about savoring every moment of the concert. “As the oldest of four brothers, I know they’ll have their disagreements,” commented Stephen Truscott from Middlesbrough. “But for the first night, it’s going to be an absolutely unforgettable experience.”

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