i dream of sushi

I bought my first OASIS record in Hong Kong, at an HMV store. Up til that point, I had only heard Wonderwall, and didn’t really think too much of it. However, I had decided that I should give my generation’s music a chance, instead of just listening to the same stuff that my dad listened to (although their generation’s music was, and is still, definitely better than anything that’s come since.)

That’s how I found myself with a cassette tape of Oasis’ live album: Familiar to Millions. I was blown away. Every track was amazing. My soul shook. The songs weren’t particularly fantastic, but whatever rock stars have, they had it. They’re probably the last rock stars the industry has left. I listened to that record all the time. In the car, at home, anywhere I could play it. I didn’t care for their studio albums – I felt they were all too subdued and boring. It was the energy they gave and got the live crowds that drew me in.

And that’s why when they announced that they were coming to my country for a concert in 2002, I, a poor student, ponied up the $20 for a general admission ticket. I was set to go alone, as most my friends at the time didn’t really like Oasis, but I didn’t care. To be part of one of their concerts was something mind-blowing to me at the time. Unfortunately, they cancelled the show. The official press release was they were concerned about their safety or something like that, but it was most likely just another blow up between Noel and Liam. The brothers were infamously feuding in those days. And so came an end to my Oasis dreams.

Until now. When they announced the 2025 reunion tour, I lost it. I checked flights. I checked hotels. I checked tickets. I was willing to pay upwards of $2000 to watch what was in my opinion, one of the best live bands of all time. Never mind that they were old men by now. I had to see them.

And after months of waiting for tickets, I am in possession of Upper Box seats to their Melbourne concert. This is going to be biblical, mate. Over 20 years in the making. So what if they’re old? So what if I don’t really enjoy Melbourne? I’ll eat at Outback steakhouse, toss them a few aspirin, and watch the two architects of the soundtrack of my childhood. Don’t look back in anger, mate. Live forever.