A report from a recent A Perfect Circle gig has surfaced via Louder Sound, with reported Eleanor Goodman explaining how the group’s phone ban changed the show’s vibe.
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As widely reported, APC got a lot of attention back in November 2017 after throwing out over 60 people from their show in Reading, PA for filming the concert with their phones. You can read about it here.
Anyhow, the latest report reads:
“Security staff inform us of the phone ban on entry, and posters line the walls. In the run-up to the show, loud announcements restate the policy. It’s so unusual, it actually adds to the sense of anticipation; something special is about to go down.
“Some people use their phones inside bags or pockets, or try to hide them with their hands. There’s a snag here – no-one’s sure how strict the policy is. Is all phone use banned, or just during the set itself? We later find out some people have been told off for getting them out at the bar.
“The lights go down, and A Perfect Circle arrive to ecstatic cheers. With an impressive light show that wildly varies from song to song, and a balance of new ones and old favourites, it’s easy to revel in this ‘guided experience.’
“There’s definitely a sense that everyone is unplugging and enjoying the ride, and it’s amazing not to be dodging screens or getting distracted by the glow of light. There’s barely any chatter, either.
“That said, this is the band’s first time in the UK for 15 years, and they’re playing to a bunch of devoted fans who were always going to be captivated.”
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Guitarist Billy Howerdel recently explained he got mostly positive feedback regarding the ban, saying at this year’s Graspop Metal Meeting:
“Most people I’ve talked to have the same [positive] thing to say that you just did. But I understand if people don’t, it’s whatever – it’s their point of view.
“We’re just asking to not block the person behind you, sticking you phone up and watching the show through it.
“And then there’s the added benefit of being present with us in the whole thing – but the biggest thing is concern or the courtesy to the people around you. It’s not like you’re the only one there.”