Floating Points

This review is for Floating Points' performance at Terminal West in Atlanta, Georgia on Sepetmber 15th, 2016. This was my second time seeing them (the first time was at Moogfest 2015) and let me start off by saying that the acoustics/mixing for this particular show (it was indoors this time) truly enhanced the overall performance. The show started off long before the band entered the stage with a somewhat hushed, drawn out, and morphing synth loop. Much of the audience seemed unaware of this and continued to chat over the music even after the band entered the stage. Slowly though, as the band continued to play and began locking into their first song (the title track off their lastest album, Elaenia), distracting chatter gave way to a transfixed silence. This was a band capable of brewing an enveloping, almost palpable, ambience.

Technical prowess was readily apparent throughout the show both in terms of showcasing a very "locked in" overall sound and through demontrations of each members, very capable, soloing ability. The oscillating geometric light visuals that served as the backdrop of the show reminded me, very nostalgicly, of those spirograph art kits that I used to have as a kid. I caught myself becoming transfixed by them several times throughout the performance, especially as the group locked into particularly tight grooves. I could definitely taste a Pink Floyd/Roger Waters-influenced sound, but this turned out to be more of a spice than a base as their overall sound was quite unique and complex.

Overall, I was thoroughly impressed by this band. I can honestly say that the only major "downside" to this performance was that the set length was so short. As the lights came up, I could definitely feel myself under-satiated and wanting more.

Summary: DO YOURSELF A FAVOR.. and go see this band.

Not many people can say that they’re a neuroscientist by day and a DJ/producer at night- meet 24 year old Mancunian Sam Shepard, better known as Floating Points. Classically trained in jazz music from an early age has played an active influence in his releases. Since releasing his debut ‘For You/Radiality’ in 2009 has seen Shepard rapidly gain admiration from his peers Four Tet, Kyle Hall and Kode 9, whilst rising in popularity amongst the ravers. As well as being a producer, Shepard also composes- there is no limit to his capabilities. As a founding member and main driving force of his label Eglo Records has seen Floating Points become a worldwide success and reputation for being one of the most exciting producers right now. Sticking strictly to vinyl when mixing live is just another impressive quality to add to Floating Points. Divulging in house, techno, disco and soul, he has the ability to appeal to wide array of people. Taking you into your own zone, Shepard takes you on a journey of self-discovery, the crowd move in their own way creating their personal connection with music and feeding into how they express themselves. Floating Points enthusiasm and passion shines through as he works his magic in every venue he plays.

I really like Floating Points but I only happened to go see them live thanks to the ticket exchange we have going on with my friend - she buys the ticket and we go see something she really wants to go see, I buy the tickets and we go see something else.

I expected this to be a 'pressing buttons and loads of lights'sort of thing, however was pleased to find out that Floating Points perform as a full on band - guitar, piano, drums and everything. Really great set up accompanied by a nice light show projected on the circular backdrop - light floating points creating various abstract patterns. Really nice and neat.

The show was great, but I think I'd enjoyed it more if I was sitting down or went to see them in a really small venue (we went to see them in Ritz, Manchester). The crowd was also a bit annoying as people kept talking over the band. Shame.

Overall, a really good experience.

Perfect performance in every way. Brilliant vibe in the entire venue during openers and headliner. You could feel the hearts and souls becoming one entity throughout the entire performance. Highly connective in every realm. Beautiful, non distraction causing visuals with amazing sacred geometry to parallel the gorgeous live music being performed. Stellar experience. El Club is now a top venue priority. Floating Points 4EVR.

The man is a genius,

Sublime

Seeing as that was too short and I have to write something more.

I think Printworks is a great Venue accoustically (not an expert though) but in general you get treated like cattle, the staff seems to be quite dour (probably not there fault as they are on minimum wage but the Venue's very being seems to suppress fun.