In a stunning comeback that has sent waves of excitement through music circles, legendary shoegaze band My Bloody Valentine has announced their first live performances in seven years. Fans of the genre, revered for its ethereal soundscapes and layered guitar work, are eagerly anticipating this rare opportunity to witness the band's iconic sound live. This U.K. tour not only reignites appreciation for My Bloody Valentine’s timeless catalog but also raises questions about what past influences and new beginnings might emerge in their performances.
The tour will begin on November 22, 2025, with a show at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland—an especially significant date as it marks their first headlining concert in Ireland since 1992. Following Dublin, the band will perform in England, taking stage at Aviva Studios in Manchester on November 24, the OVO Wembley in London on November 25, and concluding their U.K. trek on November 27 at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow.
This tour not only reflects My Bloody Valentine’s long-standing legacy within the shoegaze genre but also signifies their gradual re-engagement with live audiences, which has become increasingly rare since their last official tour in 2018.
My Bloody Valentine made an indelible mark on the music scene with their landmark 1991 album, Loveless. This album, characterized by its innovative production and otherworldly textures, has left a lasting influence on numerous artists across various genres. The band's approach—a fusion of melody and dissonance—can be seen echoed in the works of contemporary musicians, from Tame Impala to Beach House.
Reflecting on Loveless, Kevin Shields, the band's frontman, once described it as a project that transcends time: “Until I’m dead, I will be exploring stuff. It’s more like a thing you explore and realize.” This philosophy speaks to the band’s enduring relevance and commitment to artistic growth.
The resurgence of their music on streaming platforms in 2021 allowed a new generation of listeners to discover the groundbreaking work of My Bloody Valentine. Their catalog, which includes 1988’s Isn’t Anything, Loveless, and the 2013 album MBV, was made widely accessible through a deal with Domino Records, giving fans both old and new the chance to revisit and appreciate their sound.
While current tour announcements have incited widespread excitement, potential new music from My Bloody Valentine also looms large in the conversation. Speculations have emerged as the band has reportedly been working on two new albums since 2021. The inclusion of fresh material in the upcoming tour could provide fans with a mix of nostalgic favorites and new soundscapes, further expanding their unique auditory experience.
In an interview, Shields provided insight into the band’s creative process, hinting at ongoing exploration rather than a definitive end to their sound evolution. He emphasized, “It’s not like I have an idea that I realize and go, ‘OK, that’s done, now the next.’ It’s more like a thing you explore and realize.” This reflects a dedication to continual growth and making music that resonates with both the band and its audience.
The forthcoming U.K. tour is not just a platform for nostalgia; it represents a significant moment for both My Bloody Valentine and their followers. Fans can expect a carefully curated setlist blending their classic hits with possible new tracks, all delivered through the band’s signature sonic tapestry. The following are tour details summarizing the dates and venues:
Tickets go on sale on April 4, 2025, at 10 a.m. BST, likely drawing overwhelming demand given the magnitude of their return.
My Bloody Valentine’s influence in the music world extends beyond their immediate genre, acting as a precursor to various musical styles, including alternative rock, indie, and experimental music. While many bands have incorporated elements of the shoegaze sound into their work, few have matched the enigmatic presence My Bloody Valentine has maintained over the decades.
As the tour approaches, observers are keen to see how the band’s unique sound will translate to a live setting after years of absence. This palpable excitement speaks not only to their loyal fan base but also to the broader impact of their artistry on contemporary music.
The announcement of My Bloody Valentine’s tour could usher in a new wave of shoegaze and alternative music revival, inspiring other artists to reconnect with their roots or explore similar soundscapes. Following the band’s ongoing influence, we may witness a resurgence of undulating guitar effects, ethereal vocals, and experimental songwriting merging with today's musical trends.
Emerging artists, particularly those influenced by the shoegaze genre, may see My Bloody Valentine’s return as motivation to explore their sound more deeply. Recent figures in music, such as Snail Mail and Alvvays, have drawn from the ethos established by My Bloody Valentine. Their as-yet-unheard new material may also impact how other bands develop their sound, potentially leading to collaborations or new projects inspired by the band's evolution.
My Bloody Valentine's return is not merely a period of nostalgia; it embodies a celebration of their longstanding influence on music, marking a crucial moment in both their legacy and the broader landscape of contemporary sound. With their U.K. tour just around the corner and new music reportedly in the works, fans have much to look forward to—not just in reliving past brilliance but in witnessing the band’s continuing evolution.
Tickets will go on sale on April 4, 2025, at 10 a.m. BST.
This upcoming tour will be My Bloody Valentine’s first since 2018, marking a seven-year hiatus from live performances.
As of 2021, the band has been reportedly working on two new albums, although details on their release remain limited.
The tour will kick off in Dublin, Ireland, followed by performances in Manchester, London, and Glasgow, UK.
The Dublin concert marks My Bloody Valentine’s first headlining show in Ireland since 1992, making it a historic event for both the band and their Irish fans.