Stuck in a Cults-like Trance
Give me the big show. When it comes to a live musical performance, I always want the big show. The greeting. The city salutation. The witty banter. Comments on the venue. The running dialogue. The background on what the song is about. The “we were in L.A. last night and the crowd here tonight is definitely louder than last night” bit. The impromptu jump into the crowd OR the planned jump on to stage-set speakers. The call and response. The encouragement also known as “feel free to sing this song with us if you know the words!” I call it: the big show.
Now, the big show doesn’t have to be all those things. The big show can be subtle, humble, and true to the band. It should serve as a way for the audience to connect to the music through the performers. The big show doesn’t always have to include fancy pyrotechnics or multiple confetti guns, lest you think I bring a Flaming Lips-only / Wayne Coyne-and-thousands of red balloons-on Halloween bias to the table. What I always like about a live performance is the fact that it’s unique. There is something to be said for raw talent but I also believe there is something to be said for engaging a crowd when it comes to a live performance. I believe the big show should match the band and should get the audience closer to the music and to the performers.
Continue reading “Show Review: Cults at The Fillmore, 11/13/13”
