Halestorm deliver another arena-level masterclass at The O2

Written by Aggie Anthimidou on December 1, 2025

Halestorm return to London with a fiery show at The O2, and they look completely at home. Quite rightfully so!

26 November 2025, The O2, London

Review and Photography: Aggie Anthimidou Photography

The band’s ascent in the UK and Europe has been undeniable, forging a special connection that points toward a standout year in 2025. This includes supporting dates on Iron Maiden’s monumental Run for Your Lives World Tour, as well as appearing at Ozzy Osbourne’s final live performance, Back to the Beginning, marking Black Sabbath’s emotional return to their roots earlier this summer. Notably, Lzzy Hale stood as the only female rock star on that historic line-up.

Following a thrilling performance at Wembley Arena a few years back, the big question was how Halestorm could possibly top it; and they have done so by doing what they do best. They are one of those rare bands whose shows never dip into mediocrity with each performance somehow surpassing the last.

This London date marked the closing chapter of The nEverest Tour, held in support of their latest album ‘Everest’ – a record that serves as a gorgeous, confident nod to ’80s arena rock. From the moment they hit the stage, the show explodes into a powerful merger of surreal vocals, soulful guitars, towering pyro, and swirling confetti, seamlessly blending heavy riffs with bluesy ballads and big arena hooks.

Tracks from ‘Everest’ truly elevate the setlist proving once again just how formidable Halestorm are in a live setting. While their reputation is firmly rooted in heavy, high-energy firepower, it is the band’s ballads that truly set them apart. Songs like ‘Shiver’ and ‘Like a Woman Can’ showcase the band’s rare ability to bare vulnerability without losing intensity. Joe Hottinger’s soulful, skilful solos transport the arena straight into a timeless rock ballad era. Mid-set, Lzzy addresses the crowd:

Let’s light a candle for the fallen. We lost one of the big ones this year—one of our idols.

The band then delivers a deeply fitting tribute to Ozzy Osbourne with ‘How Will You Remember Me?’ – a powerful highlight from the new album.

While the spotlight often flashes to the front of the stage, Josh Smith’s bass lines powerfully command the low end, his backing vocals adding depth that perfectly complement Lzzy’s soaring lead.

© Aggie Anthimidou Photography

‘Familiar Taste of Poison’ appears in a different rendition yet again, and this time London is rewarded with the full version, complete with Lzzy draped in a long, quite fittingly, snake jewel-embellished cape.

Watching Halestorm live presents an internal dilemma: do you give in to a full energy movement, or do you stand still and selfishly absorb the sheer musicality and talent unfolding on stage? With Lzzy Hale’s spellbinding vocals leading the charge, either choice feels justified.

A hard-hitting drum solo from Arejay Hale builds up the crowd to the launch of fan favourite ‘Freak Like Me’ which ignites a small but fierce mosh pit, while later, Lzzy declares:

We love you, London. Thank you so much for having us here tonight. This is for all of us.

That sentiment lands perfectly before ‘Everest’ and ‘I Gave You Everything’, with the latter becoming one of the most powerful moments of the night—Joe’s virtuoso solo cutting through the arena to fan’s applause.

With both Joe and Lzzy launching double-neck Gibson guitars for the encore, the night closes in true Halestorm fashion: bold, explosive and utterly unforgettable.

If this show is any indication, Halestorm’s peak is nowhere in sight—and London will be more than ready when they return.