Live Review: 5 Seconds of Summer - AO Arena, Manchester 04/10/2023
In a burst of musical energy that electrified Manchester's AO Arena on a Wednesday eve, 5 Seconds of Summer, affectionately known as 5SOS, brought their unbridled passion and undeniable talent to the stage.
Opening for the night was the electrifying Charlotte Sands, whose dynamic performance set the mood perfectly for the night ahead. Her enchanting vocals and irresistible energy felt tailor-made for this impeccable support performance. Sands' unique blend of pop and rock had the audience hooked from the very beginning, which made her the perfect choice to warm up the crowd for the headliners. Following her act, the duo, AR/CO took over, delivering a mesmerising performance that left the audience wanting more. Their avant-garde soundscapes added a layer of intrigue and anticipation that had the arena buzzing with excitement, although, far from the genre we would place 5 Seconds of Summer in. Together, Charlotte Sands and AR/CO set the vibe immaculately.
Prior to taking the stage, 5SOS addressed a crucial topic through a pre-show video clip – gig etiquette and safety. With a packed standing section on the floor of the 21,000-capacity venue, ensuring the well-being of all fans was paramount. The band emphasised the importance of looking out for one another and creating a positive, safe environment for everyone to enjoy the show to the fullest.
The evening began with a whirlwind as the curtain dropped and instantly the first guitar riffs of ‘Bad Omens’ kicked in. The four-piece rock-pop band swiftly powered through the first few initial songs, displaying a hint of nervousness, which added somewhat of an endearing touch to their performance.
However, it was the fourth song of the evening, ‘BLENDER,’ that truly ignited the crowd. The explosive mix of catchy hooks and anthemic choruses had fans singing along at the top of their lungs, generating a charged atmosphere around the arena. It was evident that this track had become a crowd favourite, and the band's performance of it was nothing short of spectacular.
As the night progressed, it became clear that 5SOS was eager to showcase their evolution as artists. A swift transition from the 2018 track, ‘If Walls Could Talk’ to the 2014 release ‘She’s Kinda Hot,’ the boys wasted no time in launching further into their performance and tearing through their early songs. This part of the night almost felt like the main event, it was packed with intensity and heavy riffs, leaving the crowd pumped. The energy was palpable, and the crowd was transported back to the band's roots.
With songs like Amnesia, Vapour, and the heartfelt track Waste The Night, the crowd was immersed in a wave of nostalgia, and emotions permeated the atmosphere, palpable in every corner of the venue.
One of the most striking aspects of the concert was the diversity of the audience. 5SOS's fanbase spans generations, from 10-year-olds to 25-year-olds and everything in between. It was a testament to the band's enduring appeal and the connection they've established with their dedicated fan group over the last 12 years. Fans had queued for hours to secure their spot at the front, a testament to the band's magnetic pull.
Amidst the euphoria of the night, 5SOS hinted at a short hiatus due to Michael Clifford, the lead guitarist’s exciting news of becoming a first-time dad. While it may leave fans eager for what's to come, it's also a reminder of the band members' personal journeys and growth.
A highlight of the night was a unique and interactive moment when the band brought out a giant dice on stage. The dice featured six older songs from their repertoire, including classics like ‘English Love Affair’ and ‘Heartbreak Girl’. They rolled the dice into the crowd, and for a thrilling 60 seconds, an inflatable dice was tossed around the arena. The anticipation reached its peak when the 2014 hit ‘Voodoo Doll’ was chosen to be played, sending fans who had been with the band since their early days into sentimental ecstasy.
Reflecting on their journey, the band recalled their humble beginnings, including opening up for One Direction in 2013. Ashton Irwin's reminiscence struck a chord with the audience as he humorously noted, "About 15 of you in this crowd knew who we were when we opened up in Manchester for One Direction." It was an amusing yet touching moment that underscored the band's massive changes from their debut EP, "Somewhere New," way back in 2012, to their current status as worldwide sensations.
In conclusion, 5 Seconds of Summer's performance at the AO Arena was nothing short of phenomenal. Whether you're a parent accompanying a young fan, an older fan now navigating parenthood themselves, or a pre-teen discovering the true magic and infatuation 5SOS brings, this gig was a remarkable experience. The band's undeniable talent, infectious energy, and commitment to their fans were on full display. As they may be embarking on a short hiatus, there's a sense of anticipation in the air, leaving fans eager to see what exciting new chapters wait for the Aussies in the near future.
Words by Lucy Holden
Photography by Maryleen Guevara
