Staying Awake Specificially to Listen to Music to Fall Asleep to (in Public): Stars of the Lid at Urbis, Manchester, 25/11/2007
They are masters of ambient: they even wanted to perform in total darkness. This wasn't allowed. When the more bearded member of this mysterious duo asked if the house lights could be turned completely off, the reply came, out of the shadows; "we've no control over them". This is the first time I've ever seen Stars of the Lid live, but I strongly suspect this sort of thing happens at their gigs all the time. No control over them. No control, over. Them. No! Control over! (Them).
These ladies are not technically members of Stars of the Lid:
but they certainly had very ambient credentials. Apparently totally mute, they sat centre-stage and explained with a cello, a viola and a violin, that nothing is more musical than not being musical. Among the drones produced on either side of them (mostly by guitars, unexpectedly, though you would never have guessed) they weaved precisely scored harmonies of searing, soporific beauty. Yes, indeed: ambient music isn't always improvised. And, what, ultimately is more spontaneous than not not improvising when everyone else least expects it?
I believe the one with the cello was called Lydia, the most ambient female name that immediately springs to mind if you're sensible. And are you sensible? If not, get out. She could only speak through another.
No, not him. He's just the man who happened to be right at the front of the queue during soundcheck, before the doors opened. You'll noticed the poster, "SLOW DOWN". You see, even waiting for Stars of the Lid is (an) ambient (experience). (Overheard outside, beforehand: "They only play one chord, for two hours. Let's hope it's a good one". That's the spirit.). Let's go back in time an hour or so and have a look at the architectural context of this concert now:
No, really:
It's very proud of itself, is Urbis. That's what the building's called. It really shouldn't be there, but now that it is, it really should. Though it's unavoidable, imposing, perhaps even a bit monstrous if you're that way inclined, it is nevertheless a fine example of ambient architecture. Looking for a way in?
Well done, you found it. Would you like to now?
Remember to watch this video with your eyes closed.
Remember to read this post with your eyes closed.
Remember: do not close your ears. It cannot be done. You are not a camel. You are urban.
