Bring Me the Horizon performed their debut album Count Your Blessings in its entirety for the first time at an intimate show in Manchester on July 10, 2026, marking the album's 20th anniversary. The concert took place at Bowlers Exhibition Centre (B.E.C) in Trafford, an unconventional venue for the band, which typically plays to thousands in massive arenas worldwide.
Intimate Setting for a Milestone Performance
The show was part of the Outbreak festival, which had just concluded its three-day main event at the same venue. The band, originally from Sheffield, has a long history with Manchester, having played at the Star & Garter with Architects and Azriel 20 years ago and headlining the AO Arena in 2024.
The venue's DIY feel suited the occasion, as the band played to a crowd in what was described as a small car park at the back of an industrial estate. Lead singer Oli Sykes noted the unique setting, comparing it to seeing Taylor Swift or Sabrina Carpenter perform at the back of a Tesco.
Album Re-Release and New Track
To mark the anniversary, Bring Me the Horizon re-released Count Your Blessings on the same day, presenting a version of the album as they intended it to sound two decades ago. The re-release includes a bonus 11th track, Dehumanised, which was released in June. The song criticises the silencing of voices in modern society and the meat industry.
Originally receiving mixed reviews, Count Your Blessings is now considered a seminal album in the deathcore genre. The band's later albums, Sempiternal and That's the Spirit, achieved universal acclaim for their lighter, more accessible alternative sound.
Performance Highlights
The concert began with instructions from the band's digital character, setting clear boundaries for the no-barrier show, a trademark of Outbreak events. The band's stage design was pared back, allowing the music to take centre stage.
The crowd erupted as the quartet launched into a flawless performance of Count Your Blessings, with each song described as a masterclass in deathcore. After completing the album, the band exited abruptly, leaving the audience momentarily confused before returning for an encore.
Encore and Fan Favorites
The encore included Suicide Season, a fan favourite rarely performed live, followed by They Have No Reflections, Blessed with a Curse, and Diamonds Aren't Forever. The show ended on a high note, leaving fans exhilarated.
Lead singer Oli Sykes sported a bleached blond buzz cut, a departure from his previous Mick Jagger-esque shag mullet seen at his last Manchester performance. The band's ability to evolve both musically and aesthetically was evident throughout the night.
According to Shawna Healey of What's On, the performance was an almost religious experience for both old and new fans, bringing the band back to where it all started.
