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Out of the Blue

 
Johanna Makelainen Review by Johanna Makelainen 5 Published: 5 Aug 2025 Assembly George Square Show Dates: 31 Jul 2025-25 Aug 2025

Oxford’s Out of the Blue have been a Fringe favourite for years, and it’s easy to see why. This all-male a cappella group deliver an eclectic mix of modern rock and pop hits, transforming them into something uniquely their own through tight harmonies, inventive arrangements and irresistible stage presence. The result is a show that feels as fresh as it is polished.

It’s Oxford’s finest export since the dictionary

Founded in 2000 at the University of Oxford, the award-winning group refreshes its line-up each year as students move on from Oxford and Oxford Brookes universities. Over the years, they’ve performed around the globe, appeared on Britain’s Got Talent and raised a considerable amount of money for their chosen charity, Helen & Douglas House hospice.

This year’s setlist is a joyous journey through eras and genres, with everything from Bon Jovi’s Livin’ on a Prayer and Jamiroquai’s Virtual Insanity to Gnarls Barkley’s Crazy and Beyonce’s Crazy in Love mash-up getting the distinctive Out of the Blue treatment. The group’s ability to reinvent familiar songs is dazzling – expect unexpected key changes, bold mash-ups and sudden harmonic swells that create spine-tingling moments.

High-energy bangers are balanced beautifully with softer ballads, like Just the Two of Us, complete with cheeky, gender-bending choreography, or a heart-wrenching take on Billie Eilish’s When the Party’s Over. Every number is arranged specifically for the group, ensuring the harmonies remain exquisitely polished.

Speaking of harmony, the basses provide a warm, resonant foundation, while the baritones add depth and drive. Tenors soar effortlessly in solos, switching between silky ballad lines and thrilling falsetto riffs. Then there’s the beatboxer – the perennial crowd favourite – whose percussive precision adds a rhythmic punch that makes you forget there’s no band on stage.

Visually, the show is every bit as dynamic as the music. Choreography is crisp without feeling over-rehearsed: playful winks, synchronised moves and just enough camp keep the mood buoyant. The camaraderie between members is genuine and infectious – the sort of easy, youthful humour that draws the audience in and makes you feel part of the fun.

With flawless vocals, inventive arrangements and boundless energy, Out of the Blue don’t just raise the roof – they raise the bar for a cappella at the Fringe. Brains, blazers and brilliant harmonies: it’s Oxford’s finest export since the dictionary.

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The Blurb:

Following their fan-favourite run at the Fringe last year, OOTB are back again for their 21st year with tighter harmonies, crazier choreography and enough high notes to reach the stratosphere! Out of the Blue is an internationally acclaimed a cappella group from the University of Oxford and, after jet-setting across the world earlier this year, the group is excited to return to their home turf to showcase new talent and new songs. Don't miss your chance to see these singers in action for an hour of incredible music with something for everyone!