LIVE REVIEW: Kaiser Chiefs @ O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester

Celebrating the 20^th anniversary of their debut album in 2025, Kaiser Chiefs’ 20 Years of Employment tour truly took fans back in time. The Indie Rock band hailing from Leeds found success with their debut album, ‘Employment’, released in 2005 and selling over three million copies. Playing the full album alongside their greatest hits, Kaiser Chiefs rocked their Manchester performance from start to finish on Saturday, 14^th February 2026.

Supported by Corella, O2 Victoria Warehouse was packed from the very beginning of the night. As they brought sensational energy to the stage, getting everyone to join in with their hits, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation for Kaiser Chiefs’ eagerly awaited appearance. When the lights went down, a battered high street set with EMPLOYMENT written in glowing red letters appeared, projecting political and chaotic visuals throughout the show. Wearing a collection of stripy blazers, name tags and pork pie hats, it truly felt like 2005 again - especially when the distinctive electric keyboard riff to ‘Everyday I Love You Less And Less’ kicked off the night.

This was followed by the anthemic ‘I Predict A Riot’, as the crowd chanted along to every word. As Kaiser Chiefs ran through ‘Employment’, songs such as ‘What Did I Ever Give You?’ enjoyed a rare moment in the spotlight, having been largely absent in previous years. Finishing the ‘Employment’ section of their set with ‘Take My Temperature’ from their ‘Employment 20’ album, Kaiser Chiefs walked off stage to a deafening cheer. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=RDhamKl-su8PE&v=hamKl-su8PE

The air was thick with anticipation for their return as they came back onstage and launched into a cover of ‘Blitzkrieg Bop’ by The Ramones, demonstrating their exceptional energy and versatility. Playing their first UK number-one single, ‘Ruby’, the feeling in the room was electric. Ending with ‘The Angry Mob’, their final song perfectly encompassed the underlying message of the show. From the visuals to the politics in many of their songs, Kaiser Chiefs instilled a sense of passion and voice in the crowd, ending on a phenomenal note.

Delivering a flawless performance, it is no wonder Kaiser Chiefs have gone from strength to strength over the years and refuse to slow down. Their talent and dedication to their music are foundational to their success, with the band set to headline a series of festivals this year. With O2 Victoria Warehouse truly bringing the house down, Kaiser Chiefs proved they are still the Leeds Indie Rock favourites, keeping their legacy alive.