I am not much of a concert-goer, however, when an artist I love comes along to perform– I’m there. And I was definitely “there” this past Sunday night at the Hollywood Bowl to see Radiohead (one of the greatest bands of our time, if not the greatest). Not only was I blown away by their incredible performance, but I was greatly impressed by their visuals. Just a few years ago, concerts mainly stuck to flashing lights and a camera or two on the band (for those with lousy seats in the back). But now, thanks to technology and creative minds, not only do we get a treat for the ears at these concerts, but a treat for the eyes as well! Radiohead’s set had thoughtfully chosen colors, patterns, and movement that went along with the mood and tempo of the song. The screens showed more than one camera on the stage. They showed each band member as they performed with various filters and colors along with it. This reminded me of a show I had gone to last year for a band called Of Montreal. Not only did they have lights and screens, but instead of showing the band play on the screens, they had animation as well. Not even live video but video made especially for the concert.
Of Montreal

Radiohead

And all this spectacle does not take away from the performance at all. I would say it enhances it. I think more bands should have videos during their concerts. Musicians are artists (most of them) and with that, artists generally have an appreciation for all other forms of art. In bringing video into their performances, they are sharing their love of other forms of art with their fans as well. Radiohead even has a special relationship with artist Stanley Donwood who is in charge of all their album art. Of Montreal has used artwork by David Barnes, frontman Kevin Barnes’ brother. He has done music videos and album artwork as well.
Music and video have been used together for years, but now it’s in a new, refreshing form.
What shows have you been to that have blown you away aurally and visually (with the use of video)?
Written by Brent Altomare