OMD (Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark)
The Fox, Oakland
June 15, 2025
Photos by Raymond Ahner
Originally announced for 2024, OMD (Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark) were unfortunately forced to cancel their North American tour for their latest studio release Bauhaus Staircase due to health issues, but rescheduled for 2025. The band recently pulled up to the Fox Theater in Oakland for a beyond sold out show, and proved to their generations of fans that it was definitely worth the wait.
Opening their set with “Anthropocene” from the new release, OMD delivered an electrifying performance, proving that their pioneering synthpop sound remains as vital and infectious as ever. Founding members Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys led the crowd through a nostalgic yet forward-looking journey, blending classic hits with newer material.
The opening notes of “Tesla Girls” had the audience on their feet, singing along and dancing to the iconic track. McCluskey, ever the dynamic frontman, moved with youthful exuberance, commanding the stage with his trademark flailing dance moves and boundless energy. His vocals were strong and emotive, especially on tracks like “Souvenir” and “If You Leave,” both of which drew thunderous applause.
The band’s visuals were sleek and evocative, complementing their layered, synth-driven sound. Newer songs like “Don’t Go” and “Kleptocracy” seamlessly fit in alongside classics such as “So In Love” and “Dreaming,” showing OMD’s commitment to innovation while still honoring their past.
Perhaps the most poignant moment came during “Joan of Arc (Maid of Orleans),” where soaring melodies and strobing lights created a hypnotic atmosphere. The crowd, a mix of longtime fans and younger synthpop enthusiasts, responded with pure adoration.
As the band wrapped up the evening with “Electricity,” it was quite clear that OMD’s performance was more than just a trip down memory lane, but showed they are still quite relevant, nearly four decades into their career.
Here’s a slideshow with more photos of OMD by Raymond Ahner:
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