Photo Credit: Charlotte Ramsay
At the SOUP venue in Manchester’s Northern Quarter last Thursday night, The Outcharms delivered a show that felt more like a secret shared than a standard tour stop. The Doncaster indie outfit, still flying under the radar but steadily turning heads, brought their ‘The Games You Play‘ tour to a close-knit crowd – and despite a few setbacks, made it a night to remember.
A blend of long-standing fans and new faces leaned in close to the stage, where The Outcharms‘ gritty, heartfelt sound; echoing the likes of their influences, the bands’ sound of sparkling guitars and massive choruses cut through the close air.
What immediately stood out was how the band made the gig feel interactive and personal. A playful “spin-the-wheel” moment allowed one lucky audience member to pick the next track at random – a refreshing twist that kept the set feeling loose and alive. It landed on a surprise that the band embraced with ease, adding to the informal charm of the night.
The setlist was a satisfying blend of old favourites and new material. Fan favourites like ‘Eveline‘ and ‘(Who’s Making You) Smile?‘ sat comfortably alongside newer tracks from their latest project, including the anthemic ‘Turncoat‘ and the sharp, hook-laden ‘Games You Play‘.
Midway through, however, A sound issue forced an unplanned pause, briefly pulling the band out of their rhythm. Lesser acts might have floundered, but The Outcharms leaned into the moment. Adapting on the fly, they continued with an acoustic mini-set that drew the audience in even more.
Once the issues were resolved, the band hit the ground running, finishing strong and loud, proving their resilience and chemistry. If anything, the hiccup only made the experience feel more real. A reminder that gigs like this aren’t about perfection, but connection.
The band left the stage to cheers that filled the venue, and If this gig was any sign, The Outcharms won’t be playing to small rooms for much longer.
Taped Magazine 