TV on the Radio - May 30, 2009 @ The Burton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg

Live shows are a tricky beast.  On one hand, fans have come to expect a specific sound based on studio recordings, created in a confined establishment with no outside interference, and the ability to correct and re-correct an infinite amount of times.  On the other hand, if a band plays their songs exactly as recorded, they are criticized for not bringing anything new to their stage performance.  What many people don’t consider is the third variable: differing sound from venue to venue.  TV on the Radio is a very talented band – there’s no question about that; but on May 30th, performing at the historic Burton Cummings theatre in Winnipeg, that third variable came into play – and not in a good way.

Being a fan of TV on the Radio, I was excited at the prospect to witness their musicianship in person.  I had heard great things about their live show, and expected nothing less than greatness based on my own opinions of their latest record, Dear Science, as well as their previous works.  Much to my delight, the band played a diverse selection of songs from their EPs and LPs, treating the Winnipeg audience to a sort of “greatest hits” experience.  Being that this was their first time in Winnipeg, it was nice to hear something that could please every fan.  Unfortunately, hearing was the issue…

I’ve been to many shows at the Burton Cummings Theatre, and most nights, the sound is anywhere between acceptable and phenomenal.  The night of May 30th was not one such night, and this was the biggest downfall to a show that would have been a memorable one.  What I question is whether it was the in house sound or a technical issue on the band’s end.  I was up close, moved back, and even further back, and anywhere I was in the theatre, the poor sound remained predominant.  I’d like to say that this didn’t hamper my ability to enjoy the show, but if that were the case, I wouldn’t be talking about it now.

Despite poor sound, it is clear that TV on the Radio is a talented bunch, and the energy that they set forth on stage (specifically singer Tunde Adebimpe), is contagious.  However, concerts are about the music first, and the visuals second, and ignoring the sound issues would be a disservice to any music fan.  Next time I see TV on the Radio, I hope it is at a different venue so I can get the full experience.  Until then, I will remember this show as one that was visually enticing, but audibly lacking due to “technical difficulties” – and that is a shame.

http://www.tvontheradio.com/