What better way to kick off the show than with the high-energy anthem “F—in’ in the Bushes”? This 2000 classic served as their signature walk-on music for the latter part of their career, a bold rock ‘n’ roll statement that electrified the audience. Their choice of this track was not only expected but incredibly satisfying. As the brothers walked on stage together, hand-in-hand, they pumped their fists in unison while press clippings showcasing their reunion played on the massive screen behind them, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.

Fans who hoped for the opening song “Hello” were left thrilled when “Acquiesce” followed, signifying a genuine and heartfelt return. The moment Noel and Liam shared lead vocals felt monumental, marking the realization of a long-awaited reunion as they showcased their incredible synergy. This spine-tingling performance was a powerful reminder of their musical magic and the connection that resonates deeply with their audience.

Oasis delivered a sound experience that was nothing short of colossal. With the roof closed at the Principality Stadium, the sound reverberated throughout the entire 74,500-capacity venue, creating an immersive atmosphere. The audience, eager for a sing-along, contributed to a booming wall of sound. “Bring It on Down” echoed with the raw energy reminiscent of their early days in Manchester, while “Cigarettes & Alcohol” delivered a thunderous punch that left everyone exhilarated.

Oasis embraces inclusivity, as exemplified in “D’You Know What I Mean?,” where they passionately shout, “all my people right here right now.” This ethos is why the 1994 B-side “Fade Away,” which reminisced about their roots in Manchester (with Liam engaging the crowd by asking if anyone hailed from Burnage, their neighborhood), felt like a triumphant moment. Later in the concert, Noel dedicated “The Masterplan” to “all the people who are 20 and have never seen us before,” highlighting that Oasis encapsulates the highs, lows, and dreams of youth.

Noel’s prowess as a songwriter is beyond question. Each song in the 23-track setlist was thoughtfully selected, resonating deeply with both the band and the audience. Midway through the show, Noel took the lead for three remarkable songs: “Talk Tonight,” “Half the World Away,” and “Little by Little.” Each performance was deserving of its place in the lineup, particularly “Talk Tonight,” which was penned during a challenging period for Noel in 1995 following a disastrous U.S. show. It remains one of his most intimate songs, a heartfelt tribute to a mysterious woman who lifted him from despair and reminded him of life’s worth.

The audience has long been deprived of the iconic banter between Noel and Liam since the announcement of their reunion. However, once back on stage, they couldn’t resist sharing some light-hearted jabs. Noel humorously commented on the so-called “dynamic pricing” that left Oasis fans scrambling for tickets. Liam playfully asked the crowd if it was “worth the £40,000 they paid to get in?” The audience erupted in laughter, and he added, “Yeah, I thought so.” As Noel introduced the band at the show’s conclusion, he referred to Joey Waronker, a newcomer for this reunion tour, as “our 14th drummer,” with hopes that he would be the last.

The song “Live Forever” carries both literal and metaphorical meanings, depending on one’s perspective. However, during this performance, it held significant emotional weight. At the conclusion of the song, the band paid tribute to the late Liverpool F.C. soccer player Diogo Jota, who tragically lost his life in a car accident just a day before. Oasis, known for their deep connections to soccer as passionate Manchester City fans, chose to honor a promising footballer, devoted husband, and father who left this world far too soon at the tender age of 28, transcending tribal rivalries.

“Don’t Look Back in Anger” has become an unofficial national anthem for many in England, symbolizing a longing for lost love and better days, especially poignant in Manchester. After the tragic terrorist attack at an Ariana Grande concert in the city in 2017, which claimed 22 lives, this song emerged as a powerful rallying cry for resilience in the face of adversity. As the song resonated through the stadium on Friday night, images of bees (the symbol of Manchester) buzzed across the big screens. The emotional weight of the song moved Noel to the point where he hardly needed to sing the chorus—his voice was nearly drowned out by the audience’s passionate singing.

Over the years, the band has traditionally concluded their shows with a cover of The Beatles’ “I Am The Walrus,” but this time they chose to end on a high note with their own masterpiece “Champagne Supernova.” This spectacular finale left audiences in awe and perfectly capped off the concert. As Noel and Liam exited the stage, they shared a heartfelt embrace, eliciting a thunderous roar from the crowd, a fitting end to an unforgettable night.