Big Special Live @ Oslo Hackney - 05/05/2025

Big Special tore through a sold-out set at Oslo Hackney on May 5, 2025, turning the venue into a full-blown pressure cooker. Support came from Good Health Good Wealth, whose sharp, confident set did a great job of setting the pace for the night ahead.

The room was packed, the crowd was up for it, and from the first note, the energy didn’t let up. Oslo’s lighting and sound were dialled in perfectly, which made all the difference as the chaos started to build.

Big Special kept things tight but gave the night room to breathe. Between the big, cathartic moments, they paused to thank the crew, shout out their merch table, and share some thoughtful spoken word. Nothing felt performative—it was all grounded, genuine, and well-placed.

The peak of the night came during the encore, when the band jumped off stage and into the middle of the crowd. No barriers, no distance—just a tangle of bodies shouting every word back at them. The whole room moved as one, bouncing in time, arms around strangers, sweat flying. It was chaotic, messy, and completely electric. One of those rare moments where a gig crosses into something communal.

Despite how packed it was (and a noticeable number of photographers crowding the space), it never tipped into uncomfortable. The energy was intense, but it stayed positive. Sweaty, yes—but not quite a bloodbath. (Looking at you, Outpost Liverpool.)

Big Special clearly have a cult following already—met a couple down front who said it was their ninth show. Based on this performance, it’s not hard to see why. They’re sharp, powerful, and absolutely ready for bigger stages.

They’re still on tour—if they’re heading near you, get a ticket while you can. These are the kind of gigs you don’t forget.