The transformative sensory experience embraced by Afterlife label, where the Italian superstar duo ‘Tale of Us’ shines, is redefining the live show scene. Combining futuristic visuals and immersive elements, performances under the Afterlife umbrella are becoming full-fledged multisensory artworks. It’s not just about listening; it’s about engaging all senses in a communal, evocative celebration.
Reflecting on the role of smartphones at live events, Anyma – Matteo Milleri’s solo project – is proposing a bold move: to potentially prohibit smartphones from its future shows. This initiative is backed by many of its fans if social media polls are any indication. On Instagram, Milleri floated the idea, sparking discussions and gathering support for the potential ban, having seen engaging feedback in a short time span with votes largely in favor of a phone-free environment.
The debate on whether smartphones disrupt the essence of live music events is gaining momentum. Privacy concerns and the quest for safe spaces are at the forefront of this discussion, addressing the need for attendees to express themselves freely, away from the omnipresent cameras. The intrusive nature of smartphones may also hamper the collective experience, distracting from the live atmosphere and dampening the event’s vibe.
Leading the shift for a more present and connected audience experience, other well-known venues have imposed similar restrictions. Notable examples include the revered Berghain in Berlin and Fabric in London, while mainstream scenes are also adopting the trend. Miami’s Space club has already implemented such a policy during their 24-hour closing party for the 2023/24 season, urging party-goers to live in the moment, undistracted and untethered. The question that remains is whether this will become a widespread practice, impacting how we experience music and nightlife culture as a whole.
The concept of multisensory events in the music industry is not new, but it’s an area that has been expanding rapidly with advances in technology. An approach like that of Afterlife Label’s, which focuses on immersive experiences, goes beyond standard audiovisual performances, integrating tactile installations, scents, and even taste into their shows. By focusing less on conventional, auditory experiences, they cater to a broader range of sensory preferences and may be more inclusive for people with different sensory processing abilities, like those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Key Questions and Answers:
Q: Why is there a debate on the use of smartphones at live events?
A: The debate addresses privacy concerns, the need for safe spaces where attendees can express themselves freely, and the potential negative impact of smartphones on the collective experience. It focuses on whether smartphones distract from the live event atmosphere and the desire for audiences to be present and connected without digital interruptions.
Key Challenges and Controversies:
Some attendees and artists feel that recording devices, such as smartphones, disrupt the communal nature of live events and the intimacy of the experience. However, smartphones can also be important tools for safety and for capturing memories.
Advantages: Multisensory events could lead to a more engaging, memorable concert experience. Prohibiting smartphones can enhance presence, unity, and enjoyment for everyone involved.
Disadvantages: A blanket ban on smartphones might not be received well by all attendees, who may rely on their devices for practical purposes like capturing memories, navigation, or safety. Additionally, it affects the organic promotion that can come from social media posts.
Given the importance of smartphones to personal security and connectivity, a potential middle ground could be the employment of locked pouches for phones during shows—an idea popularized by performers like Dave Chappelle and Alicia Keys. This could maintain the advantages of a phone-free space while allowing access to devices in case of emergency.
If you’re keen to explore more about the music and the nightlife culture mentioned, you might consider visiting the Afterlife Label’s official website and the official websites of Berghain and Fabric to understand their approaches and policies. Remember to stay updated with their latest events and offerings, which are often reflective of their avant-garde ethos towards music and entertainment.