The Rasmus and The Funeral Portrait arrived at O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire to give their Weirdos ’emo’tional support as two bands unite as one, collaborating on stage to show the world that all the ‘weirdos’ can feel safe to express themselves freely.
The Rasmus – The Funeral Portrait
O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire – 4 December 2025
Words: Naomi Hefter
Photography: Manuela Langotsch
A nostalgic gig sat perfectly within a nostalgic building. Formerly known as the BBC Television Theatre in Shepherd’s Bush, the Academy Music Group venue is yet another fantastic space for live music. This West London location has hosted the likes of Oasis, The Rolling Stones, and Pearl Jam. Tonight was the night for The Funeral Portrait and The Rasmus, both celebrating nostalgic Y2K emo music.
Short for “emotional hardcore,” this unique and recognisable style, inspired by punk, is known for its expressive, vulnerable, and confessional lyrics. Emo music has the ability to capture a creative audience that appreciates storytelling within songs.
Whether someone is going through a struggle, feeling vulnerable, or simply sees themselves as an outsider, both The Funeral Portrait and The Rasmus can make even the most sensitive souls feel relatable, understood, and safe.
The Funeral Portrait
As the crowd entered the venue, a sea of fans wearing electric neon green bandanas and vibrant green hair awaited The Funeral Portrait to open the show. Lead singer Lee, originally from Atlanta, had an energetic aura, strong vocals and of course, matching striking green hair.
One song in particular, Dark Thoughts, stood out lyrically. Ranging from raw, poetic emotion with loud Hardcore layered features to clean guitar picking and power chords. This song, with a strong narrative and a pop-punk twist, was a clear favourite among the crowd.
Closing with Suffocate City, another great hit, explored introspective, emotional, and vulnerable themes. Angst, heartbreak, and addiction, this song was delivered with sincerity. The song was emotional, melodic, and strong, with layered dynamics, reflecting raw emotion, which was clearly felt by fans.
The Rasmus
Lights became brighter, the backdrop intensified, and the energy shifted as The Rasmus entered the stage. This time, with the colours of green moving to the music, T-shirts and merchandise from The Rasmus were bouncing up and down to the alternative pop-punk anthems.
The Rasmus, a Finnish rock band that formed in 1994, now have 11 studio albums under their belt. The band’s name, meaning ‘Loved’, is best described as alternative and gothic rock.
Combined with dynamic music, shifting from quiet to loud, their core sound emphasised raw emotion while blending nostalgic alternative rock and pop-punk elements. Lead singer Lauri had a lively, bouncing energy, and his voice has noticeably developed since his early days.
Best known for their 2003 hit single In the Shadows, their songs are driven by personal connection to the music and shared energy with the crowd.
In fact, both The Funeral Portrait and The Rasmus’ lyrics explore themes of personal struggle, identity, loss, depression, and resilience. Some fans were seen crying and even collapsing in the crowd. It was clear this was a release for any overwhelming feelings people had kept locked inside.
Closing with their latest single, Weirdo, a sea of joyful screams filled the room as the highly anticipated collaboration with Lauri and Lee from the bands.
The two on stage together were a real treat for all the fans, with heavenly harmonies, natural chemistry, and genuine respect and love for one another.
So, regardless of age, race, or gender, there is no doubt that this nostalgic sound of the Y2K evokes an emotional response. The power of raw emo music and the immersive experience was such a positive outlet for every unique ‘weirdo’ out there.
