The O2 Academy in Leeds was set ablaze as The Hives, renowned for their high-octane performances, took center stage for a night of unadulterated rock 'n' roll. With frontman Howlin' Pelle Almqvist at the helm, The Hives delivered one of their longest sets in the band's history, captivating the audience from start to finish.
The anticipation was palpable as the crowd eagerly awaited the arrival of The Hives. As the lights dimmed, a haunting rendition of Funeral March (3rd Movement) filled the venue, setting the stage for the electrifying performance that was about to unfold.
Launching into their set with the ferocity of a runaway train, The Hives kicked things off with Bogus Operandi, instantly igniting the crowd into a frenzy. The energy in the room was infectious as fans sang along to every word, swept up in the raw power of the music.
As the night progressed, The Hives unleashed hit after hit, including Main Offender, Take Back the Toys (a live rarity since 2015), and Rigor Mortis Radio, keeping the audience on their toes with each pulsating riff and thunderous drumbeat.
Frontman Pelle Almqvist commanded the stage with his signature swagger, his larger-than-life persona filling the venue with an undeniable charisma. From his dynamic stage presence to his infectious energy, Almqvist had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand, elevating the capacity of the event to feel like a stadium show, despite the intimate setting of the O2 Academy.
Highlights of the evening included fan favorites like Walk Idiot Walk, Good Samaritan, and Hate to Say I Told You So, each song delivered with an intensity and fervor that only The Hives can muster. The band seamlessly transitioned from one track to the next, creating a whirlwind of sound and emotion that swept over the audience like a tidal wave.
But it wasn't just the hits that made this performance memorable. The Hives also treated fans to rare gems like Bigger Hole to Fill (making its first live appearance since 2017) and Die, All Right! (a tour debut), much to the delight of long-time supporters.
As the night drew to a close, The Hives showed no signs of slowing down, delivering an explosive encore that left the crowd screaming for more. Tracks like Come On! and Try It Again (another tour debut) kept the energy levels sky-high, culminating in the explosive finale of Tick Tick Boom, which sent shockwaves through the venue.
As the final notes reverberated through the air, The Hives took their bows and exited the stage, leaving the audience buzzing with adrenaline and excitement. And as the crowd slowly dispersed into the night, it was clear that The Hives had once again proven why they are one of the most electrifying live acts in rock music today.
As the audience filed out of the O2 Academy, the irony of the band's choice of exit music was not lost on anyone. With Nobody Does It Better by Carly Simon playing in the background, The Hives' playful arrogance and larger-than-life ego were on full display, a fitting end to a night that will be remembered for years to come.
