OMD Live at The Regent, Ipswich – A Night of Synthpop and Shenanigans

Date: 2024
Venue: The Regent Theatre, Ipswich
Attendees: Verso, Hammy, Neil

After catching Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD) at Let’s Rock Ipswich in September 2022 and again at Audley End in August 2023, I was thoroughly hooked. So, when another chance came to see them live in Ipswich, Hammy and I grabbed tickets immediately and were joined by Neil for the full trio experience.

Before the gig, we embarked on a mini Ipswich pub crawl, which added its own memorable flavour to the evening. First stop: The Lattice Barn, recently reopened but at risk of closing again if their pricing doesn’t improve. Then came the Brickmakers Arms—where the beer was fine, but the stares weren’t. It felt more Royston Vasey than friendly boozer.

The mood improved considerably at The Old Times, a proper, welcoming pub where we stayed for a couple of pints. Next, we braved the packed pretension of The Fat Cat—still don’t get the hype—before dinner at The Masha of India (solid choice). Our final pitstop was The County, which offered a nostalgic nod to Chuffers: chaotic, unpretentious, and a little rough around the edges.

Arriving at The Regent just in time for a fire alarm evacuation, we stood outside for ten minutes before being let back in. We missed the support act (too busy having a curry), but no regrets—we were there for OMD.

The moment Andy McCluskey and crew took the stage, the theatre buzzed with synthpop energy. The setlist blended timeless classics like “If You Leave,” “Enola Gay,” and the Architecture & Morality trilogy with newer material from their latest album Bauhaus Staircase, proving they’re still innovating decades on.

The light show was electric, and McCluskey’s dancing—let’s call it “unfiltered enthusiasm”—was infectious. The band had the audience in the palm of their hands, with a strong singalong element that made the evening even more special. OMD aren’t just riding a nostalgia wave; they’re still producing relevant, intelligent music.

Now for a couple of gripes: I bought a seat to enjoy the music in comfort, but standing dancers blocked the view for much of the show. Fair play to them enjoying themselves, but it would be nice if venues could cater more clearly to those who prefer to sit. And as for the couple in front—the overly affectionate woman who drenched someone with a pint? They left after their favourite song. Why pay £50 to only stay for half the show? Still, their departure improved the atmosphere considerably.

In Summary
Another excellent performance by one of the most enduring bands of the 80s synth era. Despite a few minor annoyances, OMD continue to prove why they remain icons of British pop.