Spectacle normally is referred to when one is speaking of live events that evoke grotesque violence, or that entice our more carnal nature, however considering concerts and live musical performances that "crude" factor that is often thought of regarding spectacle is non existent. For the purpose of this post eliminate any consideration of the musical and lyrical aspects of communication.
I went and saw James Taylor last week at the Orphium Theater in Omaha. This is a venue that I have never personally been to, and was amazed at the visual stimulus of my surroundings. The theater is normally used for events such as plays and operas, so it is designed where the seats are conclaved and rising. I was all they way up in the gallery, but still had an amazing view. With the stage layout there was not the common digital screen in the background that you see at most concerts, but with lighted paper similar to the backdrop of most plays. I found myself questioning whether this beautifully gold plated auditorium created a more appropriate setting to see an artist like J. T. who could be considered more as art now than simply a pop-culture icon. I strongly decided by the end of the night that there could not have been a better place in Omaha to see James Taylor for the first time. The surroundings added meaning to the show by the physical ornateness that the Orphium provided.
Then to consider a polar opposite of the styles of J.T. and the visual performance, Deadmau5 is a performer in the electronica music scene, who provides a light show along with his performance that would make Electric Light Orchestra's shows of the seventies look like they were a bunch of flashlights and candles. With the use of digital screens, and his digital "mouse head" this artist is able to provide a visual experience that is nearly overstimulating. Again music aside his visual communication of what is behind the music can be inundating. His shows can go from a small venue to major festivals like Sasquatch and Cochello, regardless the visual is allways an important part of his show.
Does it really require violence, or sexuality to be considered spectacle, or is the "calming of the masses" the effect that drives the spectacle.
I leave you with a short video of Deadmau5 to consider this, I challenge you to watch it initially without the music, and then with to see if the visual is the driving factor of this spectacle or music is the key.
