DJ Shadow’s long-awaited return to Vancouver at the Vogue Theater this past Tuesday was nothing short of spectacular. Making his first appearance in Canada in seven years, he graced the stage as part of his tour for the album, “Action Adventure,” marking his seventh studio release after a four-year hiatus.
The evening kicked off with a distinct 80s synthesizer vibe, showcasing several tracks from the new album. The first half of the performance treated the audience to deep, slower cuts that set a captivating mood. As the show progressed, DJ Shadow seamlessly transitioned into the second half, injecting a surge of energy by featuring a lot of his collaborative tracks. The stage featured a minimalist setup with DJ Shadow’s essentials – turntable, mixer, sampler, CDJ, and a four-piece drum pad. Behind him, a large screen showcased trippy visuals, unless a song had a video, in which case it was artfully projected for an immersive experience.
The latter part of the night delved into DJ Shadow’s classics, providing a nostalgic journey for fans. While there was a notable absence of tracks from “Endtroducing…..,” hits like “Six Days,” “Nobody Speak,” and “Rocket Fuel” resonated through the venue. The legendary artist couldn’t resist including the iconic “Organ Donor,” delivering a mesmerizing performance that showcased his unparalleled mixing skills.
The seven-year hiatus from Vancouver only heightened the anticipation for DJ Shadow’s return, and he did not disappoint. Revelling in all his glory, the maestro proved once again why he is a legend DJ. Vancouver was treated to an unforgettable night of electronic brilliance, demonstrating that DJ Shadow remains a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving world of music.
Photos & Words by: Ronan Considine
