Frank Turner - Live Review

Frank Turner at O2 Academy Oxford: A Night of Connection and Chaos

Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls returned to the O2 Academy Oxford for a night of heartfelt punk-folk anthems, camaraderie, and high-energy performances. With show number 3019 under his belt, Turner proved once again why he’s one of the most enduring and beloved live acts in the UK. The evening was a celebration of music, community, and the small venues that make nights like this possible.

Frank Turner opened the night with his signature charm, laying out the rules for his shows: “1. Don’t be a dick. 2. Sing along if you know the words.” It was a simple yet effective way to set the tone for the evening, reminding everyone that his gigs are about respect, connection, and shared experiences.

Turner also took a moment to acknowledge Oxford’s special place in his touring history. Several members of the Sleeping Souls hail from Oxford, making the city a regular stop on their tours. The crowd responded with cheers, clearly proud of their local connection to the band.

The setlist was a perfect mix of old favorites and newer tracks, showcasing Turner’s ability to write songs that resonate deeply with his audience. The night began with No Thank You for the Music and Girl From the Record Shop, before launching into the high-energy 1933 and Recovery.

Tracks like Photosynthesis and Plain Sailing Weather had the crowd singing along at full volume, while The Next Storm sparked a surge in the crowd, with fans throwing themselves into the chaos. Turner’s ability to balance raw energy with emotional depth was on full display, creating moments that felt both cathartic and communal.

The solo section of the set was a standout, with Turner delivering stripped-back renditions of The Fastest Way Back Home, Be More Kind, and The Ballad of Me and My Friends. These quieter moments allowed the audience to connect with Turner’s lyrics on a deeper level, before the full band returned to ramp up the energy once again.

The encore featured Somewhere Inbetween, Polaroid Picture, Get Better, and the always crowd-pleasing Four Simple Words, which had the audience dancing like ballerinas and singing along with abandon.

Turner’s banter between songs added a personal touch to the evening. He joked about the dreadful hangovers he and Matt Nasir (keyboardist for the Sleeping Souls) were nursing after their Cambridge show the night before, and mentioned his plans to DJ at The Bullingdon later that night. Despite the hangovers, the band’s performance was as tight and energetic as ever, a testament to their professionalism and passion for live music.

Turner also highlighted his ongoing commitment to supporting small venues, announcing that £1 from every ticket sold on this tour goes to the Music Venue Trust. It was a reminder of the importance of grassroots venues.

Having seen Frank Turner live for over 15 years, this was easily one of the best performances I’ve witnessed. The combination of a stellar setlist, the band’s connection to Oxford, and the electric atmosphere in the venue made for an unforgettable night.

Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls continue to prove why they’re one of the UK’s most beloved live acts. Their ability to create a sense of community, deliver high-energy performances, and connect with their audience on a personal level is unmatched. If you ever get the chance to see them live, don’t hesitate - it’s an experience you won’t forget.

A set of decent photos from me also made it a night to remember!3