Exploring the Reasons Behind Boards of Canada’s Refusal to Perform Live

The electronic music duo Boards of Canada has been a source of inspiration for electronic music fans since the late 1990s. Despite their success and worldwide fanbase, they have never performed live in concert. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind their refusal to perform live.

The Duo’s Reclusive Nature

One of the reasons that the duo does not perform live is their reclusive nature. The two members of the duo, brothers Mike and Marcus Sandison, have kept their identities a closely-guarded secret for the entirety of their career. Their refusal to perform live is a continuation of this policy. Additionally, the duo is known for their reluctance to do press interviews, further illustrating their guarded nature.

Their Artistic Vision

The Sandison brothers have made it clear that they have specific artistic vision for their music that does not include live performance. While their music is often described as cinematic, they have stated that they would prefer for their music to be experienced in a personal setting, such as in the solitude of your own home. Live performance would detract from this experience, and they are unwilling to compromise on this aspect of their art.

The Technical Aspects of Live Performance

The duo’s music is heavily reliant on complex production techniques, and they feel that it would be impossible to accurately recreate their music as it is heard on their albums in a live setting. Live performance would require a large group of musicians and technicians, and the duo does not feel that it is worth the difficulty and expense for only a few shows.

The Logistical Aspects of Live Performance

The duo is well aware of the logistical difficulties of live performance. Touring the world would require them to leave their homes in Scotland for long periods of time, and this would interfere with their creative process. Additionally, the duo is aware of the difficulties of promoting a live tour, and the time and money that would be required.

The Impact on Their Music

The duo is also aware that performing live could have a negative impact on their music. Live performance could put pressure on them to create music tailored to a live setting, and this could detract from the unique sound they have developed over the years.

Conclusion

The refusal of Boards of Canada to perform live is rooted in their reclusive nature, their artistic vision, the technical aspects of live performance, the logistical aspects of live performance, and the potential impact on their music. In the end, performing live is simply not a priority for the duo.

Uncovering the Mystery Behind Boards of Canada’s Refusal to Play Live Shows

Boards of Canada is one of the most beloved electronic music acts of all time, creating some of the most memorable and timeless sounds in the genre. Yet, despite their immense popularity and influence, the duo has never performed a single live show. Why is this? What is it about the two that makes them so reclusive and mysterious?

There are several possible explanations for why the duo has never played a live show. First, their music is incredibly complex and requires a tremendous amount of technical skill and knowledge to replicate. This means that any live performance would require an immense amount of preparation and practice, something that is not always feasible for a busy touring band. Additionally, Boards of Canada’s music is heavily reliant on samples and computer-generated sounds. This could make it difficult or impossible to reproduce in a live setting.

Another possible explanation is that the duo simply prefers the creative process of recording to performing live. The two have stated that they feel more comfortable in the studio, and this could explain their refusal to tour. Additionally, they have said that they prefer the freedom of creating music in the studio, rather than the restrictions of playing it live.

It is also possible that the duo’s reclusive nature is part of the appeal of their music. Boards of Canada have never revealed their true identities, and this has added to the mysterious allure of their music. By refusing to tour, the two maintain this mystery, allowing fans to continue to speculate about who they really are.

Whatever the reason for their refusal to tour, it is clear that Boards of Canada have created a unique and enigmatic musical legacy. They have influenced countless musicians and their music continues to captivate listeners around the world. While the mystery of why they never play live shows may never be solved, their music will live on for generations to come.