Vivid Live Announces Massive 2016 Lineup

By Niall Roeder.

Would you take a look at Vivid Live guys, they’re totally bringing the fire in 2016. With all the lockout law hoo-ha going on at the moment, it’s nice to see the Opera House is still (literally) burning bright, like a musical beacon of hope.

From May 27, mesmerizing and somewhat trippy projections will once again shine on the iconic sails and with said lights, cometh thy beats! This year they’re putting on 15 Sydney-only shows in a lineup that includes New Order, Haitus Kaiyote with Sampa the Great, Bon Iver, Anohni (Antony & The Johnsons), Ezperanza Spalding, Polica, Max Richter, Wayne Shorter Quartet, Tiny Ruins, Deafheaven, Oneohtrix Point Never, Ta-ku and Wafia, Future Classic nights and more.

The picks of the bunch? Each to their own blah, blah, blah… this is what I think are the standouts in a pretty banging lineup:

New Order

Whether you’re a fan or not, seeing the group Pitchfork call “one of the most innovative dance acts of all time” would be something. The Mancunian quintet released their tenth album last year, but in recent performances have been playing a bit of everything, including some Joy Division classics.

Anohni

Emotive, ethereal and strangely intriguing, Anohni (Antony from Antony & The Johnsons) does not disappoint. Her latest album (first as Anohni) was produced by Hudson Mohawke and Warp’s Oneohtrix Point Never, which proved to be a powerful collaboration. One of the most unique voices of the modern era.

Haitus Kaiyote with Sampa the Great

What do you mean, who are Haitus Kaiyote? Self-described as ‘multi-dimensional, polyrhythmic gangster sh*t’, they are the future-soul quartet from Melbourne taking the world by storm. Look up Shaolin Monk Motherfunk and get ready to groove. As for Sampa the Great, chuck on Blue Boss and appreciate her feisty lyrics and sticky flow.

Bon Iver presents Cercle

You’re either a person that gets Bon Iver or not. You either love their washy melancholy or despise it. If you’re the latter, this probably isn’t for you. If you’re into it, check out Cercle.

Vivid Live runs from May 27 – June 13 at the Sydney Opera House.