The temperament of this year’s summer has certainly been timid, so much so that I found myself turning back on my cat’s electric blanket to pacify her disapproving glare. Regardless of the persistently chilly feel, my annually reliable indicator that summer is upon us does not rely on the weather’s cooperation. I reside within earshot of the Royal Hospital Kilmainham in Dublin 8, a venue which hosts a variety of outdoor concerts every June, July and August. The unmistakable banging and clattering of stage assembly and sound tests drift through my window, accompanied by the melody of the main performers and collective audience recitals.
This year, the season was kicked off by Rod Stewart, his emotive performance of ‘Grace’ aptly echoed over the ceiling of Kilmainham Gaol. The loop of incompatible stage noises, provocative attire and an exhilarating ending performance by Bicep – all elements that characterised the Longitude festival – could be enjoyed from the comfort of my home, lullabied by my pyjamas and propped open back door. We were most recently entertained by the Lankum-lead ‘In The Meadows’ festival, its enchanting ambience carried by the wind. However, the smoothly run event was supposedly tarnished by the constant chatter of the crowd, a typical experience at many contemporary live concerts.
With the onset of bustling summer gig season, it’s critical to be ready for the crowd chatter. To some, it’s perplexing how one can expend a considerable sum on tickets, beverages and childcare, only to stand a short distance from a music legend and gab about Siobhan’s recent trip to Malaga. Nonetheless, to a few, this embodies the very essence of a concert experience. Existing among the ceaseless murmur about Martin’s office antics or a friend who’s turned into a full-fledged conspiracy theorist on social media, and debates over the finest pay-as-you-go phone deals (a personal encounter of mine). Parallel concerns have been raised about excessive conversation at sports events. Aviva-based rugby games appear to prioritise beers and selfies over savouring the match action. However, there’s a remedy if you’re part of a standing audience at a concert. Attempts to silence a chatterbox often fail, creating an awkward tension between both parties that detracts from the concert experience. So, what’s the alternative? Relocate. Even if that up-front view of the stage is lost, shifting to a quieter part of the crowd prevents your blood pressure from escalating. Is it worth considering “silent zones” at concerts, akin to the quiet carriages on trains?
One can particularly appreciate the unique small-sized signs that sporadically pop up in the crowd. If you fancy being a sign holder, the CMAT Sign Holder is the way to go.
While chatty attendants may not mesh well with fanatic enthusiasts, at times, it’s the latter who stir trouble. Certain performers invariably attract zealous supporters who feel compelled to create posters they bring along to events, hoping to catch their idol’s attention. At his latest gig in Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Bruce Springsteen, accompanied by the E Street Band, treated his Cork audience to a May rendition of Santa Claus is Coming to Town, spurred by a fan’s placard request. Over the years, having been to several of Springsteen’s performances, I know for a fact that his followers are courteous and their signage unlikely to cause substantial annoyance. Nevertheless, instances of disgruntled concertgoers expressing their distaste online for having their view blocked by an enormous sign have become quite commonplace. The options are to either destroy or move away from the sign, although relocation should be the rational choice, if feasible. At CMAT’s fully booked gig at Fairvew Park recently, a couple of noticeable placards were visible. The distinctly humorous notes, “CMAT, I’m your cousin” and “I sold you cheese in Blanch!”, added to the enjoyment due to their witty messages and unobtrusive sizes, appearing only sparingly during the performance. If you plan to flaunt a sign, let it be in the style of a CMAT sign holder.
Should you have upcoming tickets to see Taylor Swift, consider her previous experiences in the UK. The unpredictable climate could spoil your handpicked ensemble, making it pointless under a insulated coat or waterproof jacket. Anticipate and get yourself a transparent rain poncho to prevent wasting any effort. If necessary, opt for thermal layers, and find solace in the knowledge that the chilly Edinburgh weather once forced Swift herself to perform wearing gloves, a first in her 100 Eras Tour. Ah, the bitter sweetness of a brutal summer.