Steve Hackman’s ‘Brahms X Radiohead’ Mesmerizes at The Orpheum Theatre
On Friday night, the French Baroque-style Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles transformed into a breathtaking fusion of past and present, classical and contemporary. Steve Hackman's "Brahms X Radiohead" delivered an unforgettable experience that left the audience spellbound. Imagine the majestic melodies of Brahms' First Symphony intertwined with the haunting tunes of Radiohead's iconic album "OK Computer." This symphonic synthesis, performed by a full orchestra and three solo vocalists, created a musical tapestry that was both mesmerizing and surreal.
The concert opened with the iconic and controversial song "Creep," immediately setting the tone for the unique blend of classical and contemporary music. From the very beginning, the fusion of Brahms and Radiohead was evident and persisted throughout the entire show. The audience sat in quiet anticipation, soaking in the grandeur of the Orpheum Theatre's opulent décor. As the orchestra played, the rich harmonies of Brahms were seamlessly interwoven with the melodies of Radiohead, creating a harmonious blend that captivated the crowd.
Hackman encouraged the audience to take out their phones and record parts of the performance, signaling a transition to a more modern, rock concert-like experience. The previously composed crowd became animated, cheering and applauding during the most impressive and epic parts of the performance. The fusion of Brahms and Radiohead had begun, and it was nothing short of spectacular.
As a huge Radiohead fan, the orchestral arrangements of "Exit Music (For A Film)," "Karma Police," and "No Surprises" were standout moments that left me both surprised and impressed. The seamless integration of Radiohead's melodies with Brahms' symphonic structures was a testament to Hackman's genius. Hearing these iconic songs with orchestral accompaniment felt like discovering them anew. The familiar lyrics and themes were elevated by the rich, textured layers of the orchestra, creating a powerful and moving experience.
The three solo vocalists were integral to the performance, each bringing their own unique talents and contributing to the overall magic of the night. Among them, India Carney's solos stood out, leaving a lasting impression. Her vocal prowess was nothing short of breathtaking, adding depth and emotion to each piece she performed. Her talent is unmatched, and she brought a depth and emotion to the performance that resonated deeply with the audience. Each note she sang was filled with passion and precision, making her solos some of the most memorable moments of the night.
Hackman himself provided an insightful explanation at the beginning of the show, detailing why he chose to merge Brahms with Radiohead's "OK Computer." He spoke about the connection between the two works, noting how both pieces explore themes of anxiety and isolation. This context added a layer of depth to the performance, helping the audience to understand and appreciate the fusion on a more profound level.
By the end of the concert, the audience was on their feet, applauding and cheering with fervor. The standing ovations were a testament to the success of Hackman's ambitious project. As an encore, Hackman performed one of his originals, "House on Fire," which was met with equal enthusiasm and appreciation from the crowd.
Steve Hackman's "Brahms X Radiohead" was a groundbreaking performance that seamlessly blended the old with the new, creating an unforgettable musical experience. The evening was a testament to Hackman's vision and talent, leaving the audience with a profound appreciation for the beauty of fusion in music.
Review & Photos by: Zachary Sender
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