Few bands have sustained both creative relevance and live momentum quite like Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (best known as OMD). With a catalog that helped define the sound of synth-pop in the 1980s and a 2023 album (Bauhaus Staircase) that landed them their highest UK chart position in decades, OMD is not content to rest on nostalgia.
I had the pleasure of speaking with Paul Humphreys, co-founder, keyboardist, and occasional lead vocalist of OMD, during the band’s 2025 U.S. tour, which hits Austin, Texas on June 3.
We covered a lot in under 30 minutes: their recent appearance at Cruel World Festival, what it’s like touring America again, and the challenge of building a setlist from a career full of iconic songs. Humphreys also opened up about the band’s creative and political voice, and how he and longtime collaborator Andy McCluskey have kept their songwriting process fresh after so many years.
We spent time discussing Bauhaus Staircase, a record that sounds both distinctly OMD and strikingly current, and delved into his take on the current music industry.
Humphreys reflected on the role technology plays in their studio setup today, blending analog and digital tools while continuing to experiment with sound design. He also shared how he approaches songs he sings lead on, including the beloved track “Souvenir.”
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering their music through modern artists inspired by OMD, this episode offers insight into what keeps the band inspired, engaged, and still pushing forward.
🎧 Listen to the full interview wherever you get your podcasts (podcast buttons at bottom of post).
🎟️ Tour dates and album info at omd.uk.com
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