Concert Review: Jean-Michel Jarre puts on spectacular display at the Paramount

Legendary musician Jean-Michel Jarre performed at the Paramount as part of his first major US tour in over 40 years, bringing “Electronica” into our lives. The producer, composer, and performer is known around the world as the pioneer of electronic music and still holds the world record  for the largest-ever audience at an outdoor event with 3.5 million people in Moscow. After the success of the release of Oxygène in 1976, he has sold more than 80 million albums.

The performance was an outstanding production for the ears and eyes as Jarre held nothing back in order to create the perfect live show which seemed out of this world. He personally helped design his stage which was a massive art design to perfectly align with the sound and mood. He was accompanied by two bandmates on each side while he was elevated higher in the middle on his musical throne.

 

The six giant LED panels moved in front of the setup providing visuals throughout the night either hiding Jarre or moving to the sides along with four more behind the musicians. The background also was also covered with a huge projection screen which worked all together with the multiple layers in creating phenomenal graphics for each song. Nothing was missing from the grand show as lights, lasers, graphic projections, and music danced in perfect harmony giving the fans what they wanted and more.

Jarre himself was upbeat and energetic as he danced around and hyped the crowd from the beginning. Even though the event was seated, he encouraged people to stand up multiple times and share his infectious vibe. This was the first time for many and it was well worth the wait, the show was eye opening from start to finish. The electronic tunes he shared were layered with multiple elements as he orchestrated everything from the middle of the stage.

 

He dedicated the track “Exit” to Edward Snowden, and included a clip of him talking about privacy, that was well timed considering what’s going on these days. Before starting “Oxygene 8” he invited us in his “kitchen” by wearing glasses that were equipped with a camera which projected on the screens.

It is incredible that he constantly thinks of ways to create a spectacular visual show, which built up to his signature laser harp towards the end. He put on his white gloves shared how this part of the show always makes him so nervous and played “The Time Machine,” as laser lights vertically emerged in front of the stage so he could create magic. After that a standing crowd danced around to “Stardust,” that ended the main set in enthusiasm and high energy.

 

After a few minutes, Jarre returned to the stage as the adoring fans cheered him on. He smiled and went on to play a few more songs from his extensive catalogue ending the night with “Quatrième Rendez-Vous,” putting an exclamation point on an incredible night. After attending the show I completely understand why Jarre is such a pioneer on so many levels, from his sound to his production. He doesn’t stand still or fall behind using his name to get comfortable, he goes above and beyond to deliver a memorable show, and that is why he has charmed for more than 45 years.

Check out more photos from the show HERE.

Sophia Barkalakis

Music is probably the most important part of her life. Sophia is constantly searching for new material, old and new. Always looking forward to the next live show she can attend, ready to immerse herself in the sound. "There is something so magical about attending a live show that you cannot possibly feel from a recording itself that makes it worth going to", she says. She also says she's lucky to be able to combine her passion for music with her obsession of capturing moments. She finds that being able to look at a photograph and be transported to that second of your life is indescribable and she's so grateful for all those great moments.

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