OMD play first Rochdale show to sold-out Town Hall Square crowd

Tuesday, 11 August 2026 19:08

By David Murphy

Credit: David Murphy / Roch Valley Radio / Alamy Live News

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark played their first concert in Rochdale on Friday 7 August, more than four decades after recording their debut single Electricity in the town.

More than 5,000 people attended the sold-out show at Rochdale Town Hall Square, with Peter Hook & The Light and A Certain Ratio also on the bill.

OMD brought their Summer of Hits tour to Rochdale for a 90-minute set featuring songs including Messages, Joan of Arc, Souvenir, Tesla Girls, Locomotion, Sailing on the Seven Seas and Enola Gay.

The band ended their encore with Electricity, which was recorded in Rochdale in 1979.

Peter Hook & The Light performed songs from Joy Division, New Order and Monaco, including Transmission, Regret, True Faith, Blue Monday and Love Will Tear Us Apart.

Peter Hook also recorded at Rochdale's Cargo Studios during his career with Joy Division and New Order.

A Certain Ratio opened the concert at Town Hall Square. It was the first time OMD, Peter Hook and A Certain Ratio had played together since 1979, according to organisers.

Inspiral Carpets keyboard player, vocalist and songwriter Clint Boon DJ'd between the performances.

The concert was the largest event held at Town Hall Square since its multi-million-pound redevelopment.

Councillor Sue Smith, Rochdale Borough Council's cabinet member for communities and co-operation, said: "Friday's concert was truly something special. Seeing such an unforgettable show was a proud moment for our borough. The atmosphere was incredible, with over five thousand people coming together to enjoy a fantastic evening of live music.

"It was a wonderful showcase of Rochdale at its very best and an historic night that everyone who was there will remember for a long time."

Pete Courtie, head of culture and placemaking at Rochdale Development Agency, said: "Seeing thousands of people come together from far and wide to Rochdale Town Hall Square to enjoy such an iconic evening of music was a fantastic celebration and another boost to our town's ever-growing reputation as a destination for major cultural events.

"The atmosphere was incredible from start to finish, and we're delighted that so many residents and visitors shared in such a special evening."

The event was staged by Rochdale Borough Council and Rochdale Development Agency as part of Rochdale Music Stories.

The campaign was launched last year during Rochdale's year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture and focuses on the town's links with British music and emerging artists.