Throwback to a memorable Ocean Colour scene gig

In April 2025, Kula Shaker and Ocean Colour Scene created a party atmosphere in Manchester

It proved to be a sensational night of music at one of Manchester's most iconic music venues

Author | Josh D

A closer look at Kula Shaker

A band that might not necessarily have been as well known to the crowd. 90s Britpop fans will have been well aware, but for younger members of the crowd, Kula Shaker wasn't as well-known as some of their contemporaries. Within minutes though, everyone was certainly enjoying themselves.

There is a distinction between being billed as a support act and being labelled a special guest. Kula Shaker, known for their established reputation and unique style, made it clear they were the latter. The night was off to a good start.

In the queue for the bar, one attendee said go me: "The support are pretty good aren't they?"

Not sure why but that felt like an incredible compliment.

Now for Ocean Colour Scene

The bond between the band and their fans was palpable throughout the set, with a great mix of ages and backgrounds in the crowd. This didn’t go unnoticed, with one 15-year-old receiving a round of applause from the band for seemingly knowing every word to every song—probably more than the band themselves.

After working through some of their iconic back catalogue, things ramped up with the explosive Hundred Mile High City.

READ MORE | Our favourite ever gigs

The mood soared to another level with a wholesome rendition of Traveller’s Tune, which followed a powerful performance of Profit in Peace, accompanied by images of various protests projected to the audience. It’s always refreshing when bands aren’t afraid to get a little political on stage.

They closed with the inevitable The Day We Caught the Train, sending the crowd home happy. This was a band that felt right at home. They’re not from Manchester, but they might as well be. For a moment, it felt like the ’90s all over again.

In Summary. How good was the gig?

This is something that is always hard to measure. If you feel that personal connection with the band, nothing else really matters. It felt like the audience definitely had that connection with the musicians. Kula Shaker and Ocean Colour Scene were fantastic. The atmosphere was great. Nothing else really matters. If you get an opportunity to see either of these bands over the next few weeks, go and do it!