Air
Nob Hill Masonic Center - Apr 25, 2007
review by aroy

I saw Air at the Nob Hill Masonic Center, having never heard them before. I did not leave unhappy.

On the stage itself were five performers and a cornucopia of instruments -- mostly keyboards of various sorts, although also including a drum set, several types of guitars, and some more stuff I couldn't identify from my seat. I would divide the music into two subtly different types.

The first made me want to close my eyes, lean back in my chair and let the music carry me. I couldn't help but think that judicious use of certain illegal substances would have been a perfect complement to the music...an idea that clearly occurred to other people as well, judging from the smoky odors wafting up to the balcony. It seemed like the performers were freely improvising and exploring, and the audience just happened to be there too.

As the show went on, the music became more insistent and the rhythms more complex. Although earlier in the show most people remained relatively still, during this portion I could see more and more of the audience helplessly moving to the beat (and a few brave souls even ventured to the aisles to dance...yes I'm talking to you, crazy kick-dancer at the top of the balcony). It was hard not to with the energy flowing from the performers.

Speaking of the performers, they were distinctly...French. Not just their style of dress, but also their speech and mannerisms (highlighted by a high-pitched, distorted "merci" after each piece). But they clearly were enjoying the music and brought a lot of energy to the show.

All told the music was intense, complex, and energetic. I have no doubt it would reward multiple hearings, and would not hesitate to see them live again if the opportunity so presents itself.

posted Apr 26, 2007
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