Iconic 80s band OMD return to Bristol 45 years after their debut in the city

It’s 45 years since Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark (OMD) played their first Bristol gig at the Colston Hall supporting Gary Numan.

This week, OMD return to the same venue - now renamed Bristol Beacon - on a world tour to promote their well-received new album, Bauhaus Staircase.

Fronted by original duo Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys, the band are now regarded as electronic synthesiser pioneers and one of Britain’s most successful pop groups.

OMD have sold an astonishing 25 million singles and 15 million albums, with countless hits including Souvenir, Joan of Arc, Maid of Orleans, Locomotion and Talking Loud and Clear.

The new album charted at number two in the UK as the band reaches a new audience as well as retaining their original fans.

By rights, OMD should be in semi-retirement, performing their classics on the nostalgia festival circuit like so many peers. Instead, they’re creating exciting new music that ranks alongside their finest work. 

Andy McCluskey says: “We’ve worked hard to rebuild ourselves since reforming, and we’re in a wonderful position where we’re cooler than we’ve been for a long time. 

“We wouldn’t forgive ourselves if we released an album where fans said: ‘Oh no, this is the one where they’re a pastiche of themselves.’ If Bauhaus Staircase is to be our last album, we’re going out with a strong statement.”

Most of the dates on OMD’s current tour have sold out, which is testament to the band’s reputation for putting on memorable live shows.

Paul Humphreys says: “We always conceptualise how we look for each album, and we never scrimp on the budget. We love putting on a good show.” 

McCluskey adds: “Our touring sales have gone up exponentially in the last decade. We’ve been a bit of a secret band, but now that people have had a chance to see us, they tend to come back.”

OMD play Bristol Beacon on Tuesday March 19. For tickets, click here.