The Smyths: 40th Anniversary of The Smiths & Hatful of Hollow

It’s still a bit of a wait, but the local gig calendar for the end of the year is already taking shape. On Sunday, 20th December 2026, The Smyths are heading back to Brighton to take over Concorde 2. This isn't just a standard tribute set; the band is touring specifically to mark the 40th anniversary of two records that defined a huge part of the 80s indie scene: the self-titled debut The Smiths and the session-heavy compilation Hatful of Hollow. For those who spent their younger years—or perhaps more recent ones—listening to these albums on repeat, the night is designed as a deep dive into that specific 1984 era.

The performance will focus on the tracks that made those albums what they were. You can expect to hear the familiar guitar lines of 'This Charming Man' and 'What Difference Does It Make?', alongside the distinctive mood of 'Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now' and the heavy tremolo of 'How Soon Is Now'. The band has built a reputation for being quite meticulous with these recreations, so it’s a straightforward opportunity to hear the work of Morrissey and Johnny Marr played in a live setting. It tends to draw a crowd that appreciates the nostalgia of the era, from long-time fans to those who just enjoy the songwriting of that period.

The venue, Concorde 2, is located right on Madeira Drive (BN2 1EN), which is a familiar walk for anyone who spends time around the Brighton seafront. Doors are scheduled to open at 19:00, giving you enough time to get settled before the music starts. Regarding the cost, the price is currently listed as TBC, though it is a paid event and tickets will be available through the usual channels like AXS and Data Thistle. If you need to check any specific details about the venue or the night itself, you can give them a call on 01273 673311. It’s a Sunday evening slot, making it a fairly relaxed way to spend a night in December before the holiday season gets into full swing.