Song: Love It If We Made It – The 1975
YouTube Video Link:
Discuss how the music is played – technique (instrument / mic etc), dynamics, tightness, feel etc
The music from this performance is played through electric guitar, bass, drums, vocal mics and an electric keyboard that has live recorded loops put through the sound system. The dynamics of the song feel spaced out and somewhat dream-like at the start of the performance. However, the bass and drums kick within the first 20 seconds, completely transforming the presence and atmosphere of the music and audience.
Stage presence: How are the performers commanding attention? How is the performer expressing themselves?
As soon as the song is driven into a much louder and more present sound, the performers show so much energy, especially the main vocalist. This song specifically does seem to have a protest theme to it, however, the songwriter of the group explained he did not want it to be a protest song and that he wanted to be introspective. Aside from the actual lyrics, the presence of the main vocalist is crucial in this track, it feels like a protest within a musical performance which gives this performance so much energy. The audience is used so much during the performance and it shows just how passionate both the performers and fans are, almost as if the performance wouldn’t work without the audience for this song.
Comment on the presentation aesthetics – the stage set up, clothes, lighting, stage dressing etc
Instantly, there is so much going on in the performance. The stage set up with the mixed colours of flashing lights, the bright and dark clothing of the performers and all-round animated movement of the performance is astounding. Personally, the 1975 provide one of the best stage presences ever in their concerts. This song specifically, there is movement everywhere on the stage with the vocalist singing, the backup dancers, and even the drummer in the middle is easily visible just from how much passion and energy there is in the song.
Emotional impact – how does it make you feel? Do you think it matches the artist’s intention?
This performance has an empowering presence throughout the duration of it, and it connects to me on a personal level, making me feel empowered also. The passion is so pure and raw, it is one of the band’s best assets, you can tell just by the audiences’ responses throughout the whole song just how present and full it feels. I believe the band and the main vocalist especially, captures the emotional impact of the song perfectly.
What is your overall impression of the performance?
I don’t think the performance could have been executed any better. The raw passion and presence of the performance gives a somewhat constant explosive theme. It keeps the attention of the audience and the viewer no matter where you are watching from. In my opinion, it is one of their best performances ever.
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