Could someone explain the appeal of 'Laptop' musical performances for me?

[yesno]

One of the lamest laptop shows I saw was Plaid, where they tried to spice things up by having a camera on a cheap robot arm that mixed footage of them -- the schlubbiest looking skinny nerd guys you can imagine -- in with their also kinda lame video show.

Good music, though.

[jbissell]

In answer to your question, I was blown away by Tim Hecker, but that's mostly because I was drunk, and because the Empty Bottle has a much better stereo system than I do.

Did you see him at that show put on by Wire with Jandek and Rhys Chatham?

[Emerson]

In answer to your question, I was blown away by Tim Hecker, but that's mostly because I was drunk, and because the Empty Bottle has a much better stereo system than I do.

Did you see him at that show put on by Wire with Jandek and Rhys Chatham?

That's the one. Solid night all around.

[KickTheBobo]

"Software and computers are the most punk rock thing that's happened, ever."

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUVAA1cGREo[/youtube]

[moonshake]

Could be a smash or trash contender.

[theyellowchair]

Excellent "laptop" performances are not necessarily the most accessible spectator events. Without understanding the fundamental processes of programs like Max, Supercollider and Pd, everything seems like Waveplayer -- completely pedestrian and unintuitive.

Regarding environmental DSP and programming, computers are, as Mr. Girlz Talk says, very exciting tools for music production and (most importantly) performance. Again, that's not saying music made through and by the aforementioned programs will be "better" than other forms. (Quickly: who is the "rap computer" again? Is it Trembling Eagle?)

Open environment music software has undoubtedly helped expand the possibilities of participatory musical experience. Take, for instance, the work of megagenius Luke Fishbeck (aka Lucky Dragons).

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oqkqgq867j8[/youtube]

[Come on, Jason]

Where's Councilman Lipski when you need him?