For most people, it has been a while that they attended a show physically. Luckily there have been enough livestreams to enjoy, from live performances to recorded ones, experimental rock band Boris decided to hop on that same train with a ‘tour in your head’. The viewing period of this performance is from first of May to 10th of May, in the Netherlands, it will be available on the first day of May from 17.00 PM, in Japan it will be at midnight on the second day of May.
The video is a show with a 360-degree camera that allows for audience participation, where you can watch the video with your smartphone or tablet. By moving your device it is possible to view the performance at all visual points in 360 degrees. You can manipulate the view on the screen further by using your fingers to drag or pinch in/out for zoom-in/out. The video will be available for free on the YouTube channel of Boris, but the band is open to monetary support. In addition, tour merchandise is available as well, namely a limited edition t-shirt.
Shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic crisis broke out, Boris released their album NO to the world in a quick fashion with the album’s initial release on Bandcamp in July 2020. CD and vinyl versions were released in Japan in November 2020, and the corresponding release party was recorded behind closed doors. This specific performance can be enjoyed from the first of May.
According to the band, the intent of calling this a ‘tour’ is to give meaning to the experience of participation, which live shows usually have. Different from conventional live concert footage, rather than a fixed camera angle, it is possible for viewers to look freely in any direction they want in a full 360 degrees. In addition, you will be in front at the centre stage, during the show, so you will be experiencing the show from up close. As the camera and your eyes become one and the same, every time you watch it creates a new experience and passing of time.
