Saturday, February 18, 2012

Coolest Thing in Brussels

Last night I went to see Gotye at the Ancienne Belgique. Having listened to his latest album "Making Mirrors" over and over in the last few weeks I already had a deep appreciation for his musicality and just general awesomeness, but was dismayed to see that the concert was sold out! But thanks to the fabulous Ancienne Belgique website which allows concert-goers (and would-be-concert-goers) discuss shows I was able to find myself a ticket! (In fact, I could have gotten ahold of 4!) Seriously, every concert venue needs to come up with a system like that, amazing.

I will also say that I don't think Gotye has really hit in the US, but here in Brussels I had a moment not a week ago in a little delhaize express. I was in the queu with some groceries and "Somebody that I used to know" came on. I start humming/whistling/flat out singing along, and so does the guy behind me! And then the guy in front! And there's the three of us, hardly acknowledging each other but having this connection. It's a feeling I rarely have in Brussels. So thank you, Gotye, for that!

Wouter "Wally" de Backer was actually born in Belgium, so I suppose I shouldn't be surprised that people here were excited about the show. The vibe was electric. The opening act, Gabrielle Aplin was welcomed very warmly and played some great original songs as well as a Lana del Rey cover which was fantastic. When Gotye finally made it onto the stage (it took a long time to get the equipment set up) they started slowly with some of their quieter pieces with gorgeous animations on the screen behind them.

I'm not even sure how to describe what it was like watching them get into it. Seeing Wally on the drums was... beautiful. I also found it fascinating to watch him make these little signals back stage when there was something that needed adjustment. I couldn't hear any problems or mistakes, but to see how involved he was in the sound that made it out to the audience was just so damn cool to watch. The animations were trippy as hell and just brought that much more to the show.

I could try to go more into the setlist, or try to describe the experience more, but I don't know how it could have been better. Well... I suppose if Kimbra had been able to make it it would have been that much more special. As it is I'm scheming how to get into the sold out show in Amsterdam in a few days. Hah, I wish!

In the mean time, do yourself a favor. Go listen to Gotye's album: "Making Mirrors." There's something on there for everyone. I am completely and utterly addicted. Can you tell?