By Kaden Severn
The future is now. Last night I attended a concert that I think could very well start many trends in the electronic/EDM world. Musician, DJ, and music producer Flying Lotus made a stop at the Union Event Center as part of his massive world tour. Bringing elements that I had never seen in a concert before. I wasn’t extremely familiar with his music but knew the second they handed me the 3D goggles when I walked into the venue, that I was in for a treat.
The night started off will some relaxing and unique sound from singer Salami Rose Joe Louis. Everyone in the venue was drawn into her calming presence. After a brief set change, artist Brandon Coleman came out. Teaming up with a fantastic drummer, who’s equipment was decked out in neon lights and alien-like artwork; and a smooth trumpet player, Brandon said “Let’s Go to Space,” and he took off. With an echo mic and electronic keyboard, his music had a somewhat futuristic feel to it. However, with the jazzy and just pure funk that the trumpet combined with the other instruments, it felt as if you were in New Orleans in the 1940s jamming out to some old school blues and jazz. It was a strange but pleasing combination of sounding futuristic, and yet nostalgic at the same time. The combination made for some Jammin tunes that had the whole crowd dancing to the smooth and sultry music.
Brandon’s amazing performance had the crowd in amazing spirits awaiting Flying Lotus’ appearance. A short film played relating to his recent album Flamagra. Then a message appeared which instructed everyone to put on their 3D goggles. I heard whispers of excitement through the room as everyone wondered what it was we were about to experience. Flying Lotus came out and since I was taking photos my glasses weren’t on yet so to me the background just seemed like normal EDM visuals. But then, I witnessed some of the coolest visuals I have ever seen.
Someone needs to give that Visual Effects Designer a raise. The 3D visuals created such a fascinating spectacle. You could see the awe and fascination on everyone’s faces as the outstanding visuals combined with the really amazing beats created a full experience. I could really see 3D being used more in concerts and think that it’s a groundbreaking concept in the music industry and really enhances the whole concert experience. Next time Flying Lotus is in town, you can expect to see me there raving with my glasses on.
