Words: Iris Beek
Photos: Isabella Nixon
Keane’s concert at the O2 London Arena was a moving celebration of their 20-year journey, as Iris Beek reports with live photos from Isabella Nixon
The English alternative rock band Keane is celebrating the 20-year anniversary of their debut album Hopes and Fears in actual style. Tom Chaplin, Tim Rice-Oxley, Jesse Quin, and Richard Hughes are celebrating this huge milestone with a remastered album version and a massive world tour. On 10 & 11 May, the band performed in London’s O2 Arena, and it was an absolute night to never forget.
The atmosphere was electric as the quartet took to the stage, greeted by a huge applause from the crowd. From the outset, it was evident that this was more than just a performance—it was a communal experience, a chance for fans to come together and celebrate the music that has defined their lives. There were a lot of smiles, and a few tears have been shed as well. What was particularly striking about Keane’s performance was their ability to own the stage without any crazy visuals or gimmicks. Instead, it was Tom Chaplin’s voice that stole the show, which proved where the success of the band came from.
Keane held the audience in the palm of their hand. Hits like ‘Bend & Break’ elicited raucous cheers and wild applause, as fans reveled in the chance to hear their favorite live songs. During their hits like ‘Everybody’s Changing’ and ‘This Is the Last Time,’ the crowd sang along, their voices blending seamlessly with Chaplin’s powerful vocals. But the show highlight was ‘Somewhere Only We Know’, a moment of pure magic, where everyone celebrated a decade of Keane.
The arena was bathed with confetti during ‘Sovereign Light Café’, it was evident that Keane’s music had left a huge mark on the hearts of the audience It was a night of pure magic, reminding us of the transcendent power of music to move, to heal, and just to celebrate the 20 years of an amazing album. Keane is here to stay for another 20 years. Experience the show itself with photos from Isabella Nixon below.
The 20th-anniversary edition of Hopes and Fears is out now and available via the band’s shop here.
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You described it very well with this: “their ability to own the stage without any crazy visuals or gimmicks” and “Keane held the audience in the palm of their hand.” It’s just their music and their music. Just look at their wardrobe; nothing else but typical dad outfits going on a grocery run. It’s incredible that they could captivate the audience and build a lifetime of die-hard, loyal fans with only their music, without the gimmicks, over-the-top coordinated wardrobe on stage, or polished image. It speaks volumes about their music that creates magic. Not to mention, they are also humble and just happen to have a very endearing personality.
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