Sam Fender - Live Review

Sam Fender Lights Up The O2 Arena with an Unforgettable Performance

On December 12, 2024, Sam Fender turned London’s O2 Arena into a cathedral of sound, emotion, and pure energy. As the lights dimmed and the familiar chords of “Dead Boys” echoed through the cavernous venue, the anticipation in the air was palpable. What followed was an electrifying set that showcased not just Fender’s remarkable musical talent, but also his ability to connect deeply with an audience of thousands.

The night kicked off with “Dead Boys,” a track that’s as haunting as it is powerful. The prelude set a somber, reflective tone, but as the song reached its crescendo, the crowd was already hooked. From there, Fender launched into “Getting Started,” a track that perfectly captures his knack for blending introspective lyrics with anthemic melodies. The O2, a venue that’s seen its fair share of legendary performances, felt intimate in that moment—as if every person in the crowd was part of something uniquely personal.

The setlist was a masterclass in pacing. Fender knows when to hit hard and when to pull back, and he played the audience like a seasoned pro. “The Borders” brought a wave of nostalgia, its driving rhythm and vivid storytelling making it a standout of the night. “All Is on My Side,” with its extended intro, allowed the band to stretch out and showcase their musicianship, while tracks like “Nostalgia’s Lie” and “People Watching” added layers of depth to the set.

One of the night’s most unexpected moments came with Fender’s cover of The Clash’s “London Calling.” It was a bold choice, but one that paid off in spades. The crowd erupted, and Fender’s gritty vocals did justice to the punk classic while adding his own distinctive flair. It was a nod to his influences, sure, but it also felt like a declaration—Fender isn’t just following in the footsteps of British rock legends; he’s carving out his own path.

Of course, no Sam Fender show would be complete without “Seventeen Going Under,” and when those opening notes rang out, the O2 practically lifted off the ground. It’s become an anthem for a generation, and hearing it live, surrounded by thousands of voices singing every word, was nothing short of transcendent.

But it wasn’t just the big hits that made the night special. Fender’s ability to connect with his audience, to make a massive venue feel like a small club gig, is part of what sets him apart. His banter between songs, his genuine gratitude for the fans - it all felt authentic, like we were sharing something real with him.

The encore brought “Wild Grey Ocean,” a surprise not listed on the printed setlist, and “Hypersonic Missiles,” which closed the night on an explosive high note, complete with a confetti shower that seemed to capture the joy and energy of the evening.

Supporting Fender was Wunderhorse, and they deserve their own spotlight. Fresh from a sold-out show at Brixton Academy the night before, they brought a raw, infectious energy to their set that perfectly set the stage for Fender. Tracks like “Midas” and “Leader of the Pack” showcased their range—from gritty rock to more melodic, introspective tunes. Frontman Jacob Slater commanded the stage with a quiet confidence, and by the time they wrapped up, it was clear that Wunderhorse are destined for big things. Their announcement of a headline show at Alexandra Palace next year is a testament to their rapidly growing fanbase, and after their performance at the O2, it’s easy to see why.

All in all, the night was a celebration of British music at its finest. Fender’s blend of heartfelt storytelling and rock ‘n’ roll swagger, combined with Wunderhorse’s rising star power, made for an unforgettable evening. As the confetti settled and the crowd spilled out into the London night, there was a sense that we’d all been part of something special—a night where music didn’t just entertain, but truly connected. And isn’t that what live music is all about?