On a drizzly June evening in Halifax, indie legends James took to the stage at The Piece Hall, launching the TK Maxx presents Live at The Piece Hall 2025 summer concert series with a performance that felt like a love letter to their enduring legacy and the venue’s magical setting. As frontman Tim Booth quipped, “Good evening, Venice…”—a nod to the courtyard’s Italian plaza-like charm—the sold-out crowd was transported into a night of soaring melodies, raw energy, and communal joy.
The Piece Hall, with its historic stone arches bathed in soft lighting, was the perfect backdrop for James’ return, following their triumphant sell-out shows here in 2023. As the opening act for the summer series, they set an impossibly high bar, blending their signature anthems with newer cuts and proving why they remain one of Britain’s most influential bands after four decades and 25 million records sold.
Kicking off the night James wasted no time igniting the audience. Booth, ever the charismatic shaman, danced across the stage, his voice as potent as ever, weaving between tender vulnerability and commanding intensity. The setlist was a masterclass in balancing nostalgia and evolution, with crowd-pleasers like “Sometimes,” “Born of Frustration,” and “She’s a Star” sparking mass singalongs that echoed off the courtyard walls. “Sit Down,” of course, was a euphoric highlight, with thousands swaying in unison, undeterred by the rain. The night closed with the cheeky, raucous “Laid,” leaving fans buzzing with adrenaline.
Support act The K’s, a rising indie outfit from the North West, warmed up the crowd with an explosive set, their gritty energy and tracks from their forthcoming album Pretty On The Internet setting a lively tone. Their performance was a fitting appetizer, but James were the main course, delivering a feast of emotional depth and musical precision.
The rain, far from dampening spirits, added a cinematic sheen to the evening and praising the band’s ability to make The Piece Hall feel both intimate and monumental. The venue’s acoustics amplified every note, from Saul Davies’ soaring guitar riffs to the hypnotic rhythms of the rhythm section, creating a soundscape that felt both expansive and personal.
Photo Copyright © Stephen Farrell
What sets James apart, and what made this opening night so special, is their ability to forge a connection with the audience. Booth’s crowd-surfing antics and heartfelt banter—reminiscing about their 2023 shows and marveling at the “Venetian” setting—made the 5,000-strong crowd feel like old friends. Tracks like “Say Something” and “Getting Away With It” carried an almost spiritual weight, with fans singing back every word as if sharing a collective catharsis.
As the first of two nights at The Piece Hall (they perform again tonight, June 7), James laid down a marker for the summer series, which will see acts like Gary Barlow, The Corrs, and The Libertines grace this iconic stage. If last night is any indication, Halifax is in for a season of unforgettable music. James didn’t just open the series—they set it ablaze, reminding us why their anthems still resonate and why The Piece Hall remains one of the UK’s finest outdoor venues.
For those lucky enough to have tickets for tonight’s second show, expect another masterclass. For everyone else, keep an eye on The Piece Hall’s 2025 lineup—this is a venue, and a band, you don’t want to miss.
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