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Ulrich Schnauss, The Troubadour

Among electronica fans, Ulrich Schnauss' latest release, Goodbye, was a highly anticipated record. The Berlin-based artist has been one to watch ever since he floored critics (and me) with his 2004 debut, A Strangely Isolated Place. Seeing him live, then, was yet another chance to be blown away by my atmospherically-inclined, electronic friend.

Schnauss served up an entertaining amalgamation of keyboard playing and knob-twiddling backed with a visuals scenario all-too-familiar on the electronic circuit. Based on his debut album and 2005's Far Away Trains Passing By, you might have expected a slew of makeout songs and cerebral masterpieces, but not so. However, his presence at the Troubadour did provide some highs—"Stars", "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow" and "On My Own" in particular.

All in all, the use of a live band (which was most definitely lacking) or some attempt at crowd interaction could have added a fuller dimension to the soundscapes that he creates on record. Unless Schnauss decides to up the ante with his performance prowess, his music is more suited for the next time you break out the bearskin rug and a bottle Pepperwood Pinot Noir with your sweetie.

—Leslie Madill
10.09.07