The 19th Century warehouse’s history is peppered with interesting former residents, prior to becoming O2 Academy Liverpool. Used by a furniture maker, becoming a pet shop and also as the site of a horse market, the building was converted into a music space in early 2000 when it housed L2, the second venue of the iconic Lomax, and staged early gigs from Muse, Coldplay, Paul Weller and Idlewild before closing in 2002.
Reopening after refurbishment in September 2003, O2 Academy Liverpool welcomed its first act to the stage, Shack, and the sold out crowd’s reception confirmed their status as legendary musicians and heroes in their hometown. The following night DJ Steve Lamacq stamped his seal of approval on the venue, bringing BBC 6 Music’s Lamacq In The City to the stage with a headline performance from Ladytron and Franz Ferdinand. The opening paved the way for more outstanding shows and its calendar boasted established artists like Blondie and Killing Joke, alongside acts of the moment, Elbow, Athlete, The Thrills and The Wannadies.
O2 Academy Liverpool still upholds its reputation as a great place to watch live music in the city and has hosted shows from internationally acclaimed artists, rock legends, indie icons, cutting edge dance and urban acts. Highlights have included shows from The Killers, Biffy Clyro, The Prodigy, Paul McCartney, Foals, Courteeners, The Wombats, Paloma Faith, Arctic Monkeys and Amy Winehouse.