The Waterboys Return to The O2 for Epic Fisherman’s Blues Revue
A Landmark Concert Comes to The O2
The O2 Arena in North Greenwich has long been one of London’s premier concert venues, hosting world-class musicians and drawing audiences from across the capital and beyond. This September, the storied venue will once again prove why it remains a destination for serious music lovers when The Waterboys announce their Fisherman’s Blues Revue on Saturday, 12 September 2026. The O2’s location on the Thames, accessible via the Jubilee Line and River services, makes it a natural gathering point for London’s music community. For those visiting the area, nearby cultural institutions like the London Museum and various London exhibitions provide compelling reasons to make an evening of it in this revitalized neighbourhood. The arena’s state-of-the-art acoustics and 20,000-capacity make it the perfect setting to celebrate a seminal album that defined an era. Doors open at 6:30 PM, giving fans time to explore the surrounding entertainment district before settling in for what promises to be an unforgettable night of Irish-influenced folk and rock music.
The Reunion Every Fan Has Been Waiting For
For devoted Waterboys followers, this announcement represents something truly special. Mike Scott, the band’s visionary leader, has reunited the classic ensemble that created the beloved Fisherman’s Blues album in the late 1980s, bringing back legendary fiddler Steve Wickham alongside an eight-piece ensemble. But the real coup is the addition of American roots icon Steve Earle, who will contribute vocals, guitar, and mandolin while performing his own catalogue. Earle’s involvement speaks volumes—he’s famously selective about collaboration, having expressed that he only ever wanted to be in three bands: The Rolling Stones, NRBQ, and The Waterboys. This tour directly benefits the musicians involved, providing significant performance opportunities and revitalizing interest in their work. The supporting band includes organist Brother Paul, pianist Famous James, bassist Aongus Ralston, drummer Eamon Ferris, and Norwegian lap steel virtuoso Roar Øien. Scott’s enthusiasm is palpable: he’s been wanting to collaborate with Earle for years, and this project finally brings that vision to life, creating something genuinely fresh while honouring the past.
What Local Residents Need to Know
Tickets are currently on sale through theo2.co.uk and AXS.com, with doors opening at 6:30 PM. Here’s what matters for North London and greater London communities: transportation into Greenwich will likely see increased demand that evening, so plan accordingly. Tickets must be downloaded via The O2 app if purchased through official channels—screenshots won’t be accepted. The venue has partnered with Nimbus Disability for accessible tickets, using the Access Card system for clear communication about access requirements. Those needing to resell tickets should use AXS Official Resale exclusively; tickets purchased elsewhere may be invalid. Complementing this announcement, The Waterboys are releasing Atlantic Rain on 17 July 2026—a three-disc collection of previously undiscovered material from the Fisherman’s Blues sessions. Scott describes it as containing hundreds of forgotten recordings, all of exceptional quality. For music enthusiasts planning their autumn, signing up for O2 alerts ensures you’ll be first to know about future events. Whether you’re a longtime devotee or newly curious about this influential band’s legacy, this revue represents a rare opportunity to experience a crucial moment in British rock history reimagined for today.
