Oasis made a stunning return after 16 years, launching their reunion tour in Cardiff, Wales, on July 4. Fans eagerly gathered to relive the iconic 1990s hits that defined Britpop.
Was there a sense of brotherly love between the famously feuding Gallagher siblings? The answer, perhaps, is “definitely maybe.”
LIAM’S UNDIMMED SWAGGER
Fans journeyed to Cardiff from across the globe for an event many didn’t believe would ever occur. Brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher had not performed together since their contentious split in 2009.
A fan’s banner captured the moment perfectly: “The great wait is over.”
The anticipation reached its peak when Oasis hit the stage, opening with “Hello,” its lyrics resonating with heartfelt excitement about their return.
While the brothers briefly shared the spotlight, they largely maintained their distance. Noel, at 58, focused on his guitar, and Liam, at 52, displayed his signature snarl, reaffirming the charisma he has held for over three decades since the band’s first album, *Definitely Maybe*.
The crowd of 60,000 at the Principality Stadium enjoyed a two-hour set that revisited hits from their debut and its acclaimed sequel, *What’s the Story) Morning Glory,* along with select later tracks and beloved B-sides.
Classics like “Supersonic,” “Roll With It,” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Star” reverberated through the stadium, leading to raucous sing-alongs.
“Put your arms over each other like you love each other,” Liam urged the audience before diving into “Cigarettes and Alcohol.”
A moment of reflection occurred during “Live Forever,” as an image of Liverpool Football Club player Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car crash, illuminated the stage.
Noel also took the lead for several tracks, including the poignant “Half the World Away.” The night wrapped up with encores featuring some of Oasis’ timeless hits: “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” “Wonderwall,” and “Champagne Supernova.” The brothers shared a brief embrace as the last note faded.
Eye-catching projections provided a backdrop, although minimal chatter kept attention on the music. Liam even joked, “Was it worth the 40,000 pounds you paid for the ticket?” during the show, referencing the intense ticket scramble.
Judging by the audience’s response, the answer was a resounding yes.
‘VERY, VERY SPECIAL’
The performance in Cardiff kicked off a 19-date *Live ’25* tour across the UK and Ireland, with future stops planned in North America, South America, Asia, and Australia, concluding in Sao Paulo on November 23.
The streets surrounding the venue buzzed with fans who belted out the band’s classics and purchased Oasis-branded bucket hats for £35 each.
“It’s very, very special—emotional,” commented Rob Maule, 44, from Edinburgh. “I’m here with childhood friends, and we’ve followed Oasis everywhere.”
“This resonates across generations as people bring their kids along. It’s a significant moment.”
Another attendee, Vicki Moynehan from Dorchester, shared her excitement: “Seven months pregnant—ain’t gonna stop me!”
SING-ALONG ROCK CHORUSES
Established in Manchester in 1991, Oasis became one of the leading British acts of the 1990s, boasting eight UK No. 1 albums.
Their sound was characterized by memorable rock choruses and dynamic chemistry between Noel, a Beatles and glam rock fan, and his younger brother Liam.
The duo has continuously exchanged barbs over the years. Liam once called Noel “tofu boy,” while Noel referred to his brother as “the angriest man you’ll ever meet.”
Following a backstage fallout during a concert in France in 2009, the brothers initially resisted the urge to reunite, despite lucrative offers.
Now, they have come together for a tour featuring former Oasis members Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs, Gem Archer on guitar, bassist Andy Bell, and drummer Joey Waronker.
‘AN ABSOLUTE UNBELIEVABLE BLAST’
The UK tour announcement triggered a frenzy of ticket sales, leading to frustration due to high demand and last-minute price spikes.
This surge drew scrutiny from UK Parliament, with Arts Minister Chris Bryant criticizing practices leading to inflated prices. The UK’s competition regulator is addressing concerns regarding Ticketmaster’s handling, which sold around 900,000 Oasis tickets.
While no new music is planned, the tour is a chance for Oasis to celebrate their legacy, showcasing their lasting impact.
Music writer John Aizlewood emphasized the importance of this reunion: “These shows can be a brilliant way to honor their heritage. There’s enduring affection for Oasis, and that equates to significant value.”
Fans are clearly excited to cherish these moments together.
“As the oldest among my brothers, I know they’ll have their disagreements,” remarked Stephen Truscott from Middlesbrough. “But this first night will be an incredible experience!”
