Nils Frahm @ Metropolis

Photo by Alexander Schneider

Nils Frahm is one of those artists that most don't know about, and if you do, then you are probably a major devotee! I was reminded of this phenomenon this past Saturday during M for Montreal. Nils has played in Montreal a handful of times, including sold out shows at Mutek. I tried to catch his set the last time earlier this year, but, alas, it was sold out. I was thrilled to be able to see him, at Metropolis no less, where his minimalist ambient sound was fully enhanced with their incredible sound system.

How can I turn you into a Frahm-follower, you ask? Well, imagine this... Three different piano configurations on stage, yet only one musician. Intriguing, right? Then let me tell you more! First setup, classic upright piano, okay, I know, not the most exciting idea, until you hear him play it! Second setup, vintage, gorgeous Roland Juno 6, aka a total dream machine, run through an amazing Space Echo delay unit, topped with yet another Space Echo delay running yet another rare Roland machine. You might be asking yourself, what does this all mean? These are the primary wonder-making tools of Frahm's misty, arpeggiated, ambient lulls that will have you swaying in the clouds. Lastly, closing out the instrument lineup is a grand piano, just waiting for Nils' magic fingers, and drumsticks, to grace it's ivory keys.

I will list the things that blew me away at this show, for the last enticement of your induction into the "Club of Nils." The most impressive thing, besides the delicately intricate musical delights of Nils Frahm, was the beyond-captive audience. We have all been to those shows that we really just want to shush the crowd at the bar because they are harshing your music-watching vibe, right? This entire audience seemed to be joined in one collective group-thought of complete silence, to the point that you could hear bartenders clinking glasses at the bar... - AT METROPOLIS! There was also at least three separate people that were moved to the point of passing out (they were fine, in the end). I am not sure if this is a regular thing at shows, I am sure it is, especially at bigger, hotter venues, but it was especially noticeable at this show because of the audience silence.

Occasionally, you just heard a big "THUD," then a rush of aid. Not only was it really disturbing to see this, it actually totally numbed my mind at how many different people passed out at this show. The only other audible audience sound, aside from the thunderous rounds of applause, was the semi-silent sounds of weeping. Yes, you read that correctly, weeping. To top it all off, Nils has to be one of the most humble, appreciative, and utterly charming musicians that I have had the pleasure to see live, as of late. He even took the time to sign autographs and chat with the queue of fans waiting at the end of the show. If that isn't the hook-line-and-sinker for you to discover the world of Nils Frahm, then please, please take my word for it! His latest release, Spaces, was recorded live, and I feel it encapsulates many of the raw emotions that I witnessed at Metropolis.

Check out his website, http://www.nilsfrahm.com/, for tour information.

--Julie Matson hosts With Gay Abandon, an afternoon dose of the best in queer music and culture! Tune in every Monday at 4 PM, only on CJLO.