OMD - Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark Tickets

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About OMD

In the wake of the dissolution of the English new wave band known as The Id, former members Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys sunk their energy into a side project they had developed. Initially called VCL XI, they renamed themselves Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD), a phrase taken from ideas McCluskey had written on his bedroom wall. They liked to experiment with sound and wanted a moniker that would distinguish their musical endeavor as something outside of the punk genre.

McCluskey and Humphreys’ innovative use of electronic instruments signaled a new era in pop music, blending technology with melodic craft. They sometimes created their own devices, using bits and pieces of various electronics to invent instruments. Eventually, they mail-ordered a Korg M-500 Micro Preset synthesizer from a catalog, paying for it in installments over 36 weeks. When they played their first gig at Eric's Club in Liverpool, they used backing tracks recorded on a 4-track tape recorder.

They intended to stage a single show, opening for Joy Division, but the overwhelming response they received set them on a path that would define the synth-pop movement. Once signed, they used their advance payment to fund the construction of a studio, where they recorded their eponymous debut album. Additionally, keyboardist and saxophonist Martin Cooper and drummer Malcolm Holmes were added to round out the original lineup.

OMD’s breakthrough in Europe came with the release of their anti-war song, "Enola Gay,” the only single from their 1980 album, Organisation. "Souvenir" from the 1981 album, Architecture and Morality, was their biggest UK hit. Then, in 1985, they were asked to create a song for the John Hughes film Pretty in Pink. "If You Leave," penned in under 24 hours, soared to the top 5 in the US, Canada, and New Zealand, cementing OMD's place in pop culture around the globe. 

To date, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark has sold over 40 million records, a testament to their broad appeal and innovative sound. They were pioneers in the use of digital sampling, a technique that has since become ubiquitous in music production. Their influence has been cited by Duran Duran, Tears for Fears, New Order, ZZ Top, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode, and countless other artists, and they continue to inspire many up-and-coming musicians. 

Despite going on hiatus in the mid-1990s, the group's reunion in 2006 reignited their creative output. Ears perked up, as people clamored for details on upcoming releases and tours. Even with a legacy built over four decades, OMD’s enduring appeal is unquestionable—every song is both nostalgic and fresh. Respected as trailblazers and beloved by fans and fellow creators alike, they will forever remain at the forefront of the electronic music scene.

OMD’s Setlist

OMD's musical catalog is characterized by a blend of electronic synthpop and catchy melodies. Their studio recordings serve as the blueprint for their electrifying stage performances, where they bring their iconic sound to life. When you see them live, expect a journey that includes setlist standards like these: 

1. Enola Gay

2. Joan of Arc (Maid of Orleans)

3. Electricity

4. Messages

5. Locomotion

6. Joan of Arc

7. Souvenir

8. Sailing on the Seven Seas

9. Tesla Girls

10. (Forever) Live and Die

Live Moments That Made Headlines

OMD’s concerts are more than just showcases for their hits; they are immersive experiences that sync unique soundscapes with visual artistry. Additionally, the band’s ability to connect with their audience through their performances has left a lasting impression. These shows have been among their most memorable live events: 

• September 28, 1978: McCluskey and Humphreys played their first show at Eric's Club in Liverpool, where they were compensated with a half crate of beer. It was a warm-up for their first advertised gig on October 12th, opening for John Dowie.

• October 20, 1978: This was the concert that had started it all—their reason for getting serious about OMD in the first place. McCluskey and Humphreys opened for Joy Division and Cabaret Voltaire at The Factory in Manchester, UK.

• September 8, 1979: OMD was in the lineup for the Futurama Festival at Queens Hall in Leeds. It was billed as the "World's First Science-Fiction Music Festival" and featured over 30 bands, including Echo and the Bunnymen, the Fall, and Public Image Ltd.

• September 20, 1979: McCluskey and Humphreys embarked on their first major tour as Gary Numan’s opening act. In just under a year, they went from playing small, local clubs to massive venues. Numan returned the favor in 1993 on OMD’s UK arena tour.

• June 23, 1984: OMD performed their largest concert to date at a festival in Barcelona, playing to an astonishing crowd estimated at over 350,000. This monumental event, which coincided with McCluskey’s 25th birthday, underscored their widespread appeal. 

• December 1, 2006: After an invitation from a German television show, the original lineup reunited for an 18-date “Night of the Proms” tour. To the delight of fans in Europe, they performed material from Architecture & Morality and their other pre-1993 albums.

• September 30, 2008: OMD kicked off their 78|08 30th Anniversary Tour at Newcastle City Hall in the UK. Celebrating three decades in the industry, they played their biggest hits and introduced songs from their album Bauhaus Staircase. 

• March 8, 2011: Terminal 5 in New York City was the site of OMD’s first US concert on the History of Modern tour. They played a brilliant 21-song set, showcasing songs from their recent release and treating fans to familiar favorites.

• May 9, 2016: The Royal Albert Hall hosted OMD for a special performance that featured their 1983 experimental album Dazzle Ships played in its entirety. The event was vindictive justice for the group, demonstrating the brilliance of the initially misunderstood release.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do OMD concerts last?

The length of an OMD concert depends on the full lineup, but their sets typically last about 1 ½ hours and feature 18–25 songs, including an encore. Search GoTickets.com for tickets to an upcoming show!

Are OMD tickets sold out?

Even if an OMD concert has been classified as “sold out,” you might still find tickets at GoTickets.com, where trusted sellers list seats. Every secure sale is backed by a buyer guarantee.

Does OMD tour?

OMD tours and has shared the stage with Depeche Mode, Barenaked Ladies, the B-52’s, Berlin, and other talented performers. They have also appeared at Coachella and the Darker Waves Festival.

What is the best place to buy OMD tickets?

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Are there any age restrictions for OMD concerts?

OMD concerts are usually open to all ages, but some locations may have their own requirements or areas restricted to certain age groups. Check your venue’s website for the latest details. 

Are outside food or beverages permitted inside the venue for an OMD concert?

Food and drink policies, as well as other concert rules and restrictions, vary by location. Before packing up to see OMD live, check the venue’s website for information on what is and is not allowed.

How much are OMD tickets?

The cost of OMD tickets varies according to the venue, date, lineup, and demand. Explore current pricing at GoTickets.com, your gateway to all the hottest concerts, tours, and festivals.