Last August, 14 million people tried to get tickets for the Oasis reunion. Most missed out. Result: Oasis tribute bands are working overtime.
Worldwide, there are at least 40 active Oasis cover bands in the United Kingdom. But also in Europe, the USA, Canada, Japan, and even Dubai and Argentina, 'Liams' and 'Noels' are ready to fill the void.
The Guardian spoke to a dozen of these bands. A selection:
Maine Road from Liège (Belgium) has been playing since 2018. Frontman Matteo Terzi works in a chocolate factory by day and plays Liam Gallagher by night. His Noel grew up in Belgium. Language doesn't matter, he says — it's about the feeling.
Boys in the Bubble from Milan consists of the best musicians from three former Oasis cover bands. They cover all of Italy.
Parklife from Toronto has a female Liam. Deena Petcoff has a low voice and only had to put one song in a different key. Her audience? 75% men in bucket hats who have brought their girlfriends.
Faux-asis from Dubai headlined the Dubai Rugby Sevens for 50,000 people. Their first gig was for 20 people.
Oasus from Orange County, USA, plays for diehard fans who would otherwise remain invisible. Frontman Seth Romano wears an Amazon wig because his hair isn't long enough.
The conclusion? If you don't have a ticket, you'll always find a 'Liam' nearby.
Want to experience Oasis live at your event? Tributeworld books Columbia — The Ultimate Oasis Tribute (IT) — the professional Oasis tribute act for festivals, theatres, and events in the Netherlands and Belgium.