The Hidden Cameras [rank: 625] based on users subscribed

"The Hidden Cameras are a Canadian indie pop band. Fronted by singer-songwriter Joel Gibb, the band consists of a varying roster of musicians. In the past, their live performances have been elaborate, high energy shows, featuring go-go dancers in balaclavas, a choir and string section. Large banners, created by Joel and often featured on the band's record covers, are hung from the ceiling and lyrics are projected onto the wall. Yellow streamers thrown into the audience accompany the song, 'Golden Streams' and band members lead the audience in special made-up dances for particular songs."

[reproduced or excerpted from the Wikipedia article "The Hidden Cameras" and its use is thus licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License]

Bandega Interview with Joel Gibb of The Hidden Cameras (September 2009)

When you think Hidden Cameras, you think Grace Jones and a hula hoop.

Q: How have your shows changed over the years? Has your perspective on performing live changed?
A: Our live show has evolved quite a bit in some ways. For instance, we no longer tour with the overhead projector (too delicate) and we rarely have go-go dancers either. Our live show for our new album "Origin:Orphan" starts very dark and eventually turns into a party.

Q: Describe the most memorable live show you've played.
A: Too many to mention. Playing before a soccer match in Munich's Allianz Arena was pretty memorable. It was our first time doing "playback," pretending to play our instruments in front of tens of thousands of clueless German soccer fans. It was Mehmet Scholl's request since it was the final game of his career and he really likes The Hidden Cameras.

Q: What venue do you consider to be your "home", where you feel most comfortable, with the crowd and the place itself?
A: Well, Barrymore's in Ottawa was kind of a "home" because we have played there so many times and we like the staff and the stage but I heard it is now closed down, which is sad. In terms of cities themselves: Gothenburg (Sweden) St. John's (NFLD), Vienna (Austria), Barcelona (Spain) and Athens (Greece). Great crowds!

Q: Describe the most enjoyable show you've ever experienced as a fan.
A: Grace Jones at Tempodrom in Berlin this year was pretty fun. She hula-hooped for 15 minutes to "Slave to the Rhythm" and proceeded to introduce the band, then she put it round her neck!! She was pretty funny too: "Don't give me a glass of wine, give me a bottle!"

Q: What was your experience screening the video for "In the NA" at the most recent Inside Out Film and Video Festival? Is it something you look forward to doing again?
A: It was the first time I had actually seen it projected so that was exciting. It was also nice to watch the film with members of the band and crew as well.

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