The 80s gave rise to synth-pop bands that ushered in a second wave of the British invasion, featuring legendary acts like Gary Numan, New Order, Pet Shop Boys, and Depeche Mode, to name a few. However, a band that predated and inspired many of these groups is Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD). OMD is considered one of the pioneers of the electronic music scene, bringing a fresh, experimental style with their debut song, “Electricity.” This sound has inspired generations, whether they realize it or not.

OMD wrapped up their Bauhaus Staircase Tour back in July but decided to add a couple more performances before the end of the year. They treated fans to a two-night special at the House of Blues in Anaheim, CA. Night one sold out, with fans of all ages packing the venue to witness these legends still delivering electrifying performances.

Opening the night was the Southern California new wave band Midway. They kicked off their set with “Only the Young,” immediately drawing attention to bassist Bradley Johnson, who was dressed to the nines and grooving with an upright bass. Johnson made his instrument stand out, as his grooves took center stage in many of Midway’s songs.

The energy shifted when vocalist Daniel Valoff stepped onto the stage, tossing roses to the crowd. Valoff, who has been battling stage 4 thyroid cancer for the past two years, continues to sing and perform despite the toll it has taken on his vocal cords. His resilience is inspiring, and fans can support him through his GoFundMe campaign titled Help a Singer Beat Cancer.

Midway is rounded out by Elizabeth Bird on keyboards, David Johnson on guitar, and Jason Wise on drums. This five-piece band brought a California twist to new wave, perfectly setting the tone for the night with songs like “Demolition Girl,” “Matinee Idol,” “Debris,” “This Charming Man,” “I’d Like to Say,” “Vanity Under Distress,” “Control,” and their closing track, “Avendale.”

As the crowd eagerly awaited the headliners, the standing room at the House of Blues filled to capacity. When Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark finally took the stage, they opened with their song “Isotype.” Vocalist Andy McCluskey was a whirlwind of energy, defying expectations for a man in his 60s. He worked the entire stage, engaging with every corner of the audience. At one point, he even signed a fan’s vinyl record mid-performance, seamlessly incorporating it into the show. The only time McCluskey’s boundless energy was contained was when he strapped on his bass guitar for select songs, anchoring him behind the mic stand. Even then, he seized every opportunity to dance during vocal breaks.

OMD was co-founded by keyboardist and co-vocalist Paul Humphreys, who took his place on the backline of the stage, giving McCluskey ample room to move. Humphreys, though less animated, was no less impactful, delivering iconic synth-infused beats and rhythms with a smile that reflected his joy in performing. He ensured his presence was felt, even from the back of the stage.

The band is rounded out by Martin Cooper on keyboards and Stuart Kershaw on drums. Together, they delivered a setlist packed with classics that fans have cherished for decades, including “Messages,” “Tesla Girls,” “Kleptocracy,” “History of Modern (Part 1),” “(Forever) Live and Die,” “If You Leave,” “She’s Leaving,” “Souvenir,” “Joan of Arc,” “Veruschka,” “Talking Loud and Clear,” “So in Love,” “Dreaming,” “Locomotion,” “Sailing on the Seven Seas,” and “Enola Gay.” They returned for a three-song encore featuring “Look at You Now,” “Secret,” and their debut single, “Electricity.” The night was a perfect blend of timeless classics and new tracks, all infused with the catchy grooves and hooks that kept fans dancing no matter the song.

Looking out into the crowd, you could see fans of all ages. Older fans who have followed the band since their inception stood alongside adults in their 30s who likely discovered OMD through platforms like Spotify. Even kids were in attendance, introduced to this incredible music by their parents, who were clearly thrilled to share the experience.

OMD has been performing for over four decades, and their live shows still radiate high energy. While they may be done with performances for this year, when OMD hits the road again, seeing these legends live is an experience you won’t want to miss.