This was never going to be the most conventional night at the theatre. However Black Midi aren’t your everyday kind of band.
At times somewhere between the jazz-fusion of Herbie Hancock and the more extremities of Ledbib or Go Go Penguin. All the while throwing in Less Claypool style bass lines (albeit played with a pick) and Mars Volta-esque math rock.
The first couple of tracks were a whirlwind of noise, experimental avant-garde meets pretentious art students… and for the record, I love both.
Yet, realistically this wasn’t ever going to be particularly easy-going on the ears. Nor was it made any easier by a sound system that was at times struggling to cope.
It was loud and difficult to focus on what was happening. Were the keys too low in the mix and the sax drowned out by the bass? Or was it a deliberate ploy to be even more confusing? Especially given that technically, the musicianship on show was damn fine regardless.
By the mid-section of the set, Black Midi attempted their take on “normal” songs. Albeit with a slight comedy twist and an over use of slide whistles. However, personally, this is where I just wanted more of the challenging concoctions. After all, it’s not like we could make out the lyrics anyway!
It probably wasn’t even meant to be jazz, but that’s certainly how I perceived it. As somewhere amongst the chaos, Black Midi know exactly what they were doing. Delving in and out of various time signatures, while hitting that all-important last note in perfect unison.
It might not be to everyone’s tastes, but Black Midi at the Theatre Royal was certainly a gig that made an impression.
Black Midi – “Cavalcade” Out Now.
