Anders Friden from In FLAMES isn’t one to judge, but questions why fans feel the need to experience a live show through their phones when they’re there in person
During a recent conversation with Australia’s Metal Roos, IN FLAMES frontman Anders Fridén shared his perspective on the practice of concertgoers using cell phones to capture photos and videos of live performances, sometimes even recording entire shows rather than fully immersing themselves in the moment.
The IN FLAMES frontman said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): “For me personally, being on stage, I’m not bothered anymore. It’s up to you. Sorry to say, but if you’re that stupid to go to a live show and then you watch your little screen instead of experience what’s going on, I feel that’s a missed opportunity.
“But who am I to judge? You do whatever you want. It’s your money, it’s your experience, and I can’t change that. But I wish people put the phones in their pockets. ‘Cause when they look back at this, it will be a shitty sound on your phone or you watch something on YouTube or you upload it — whatever you do. And then you were in that room and you could have had that experience, which is way greater than watch your little screen. But people can do whatever they want.”
He continued: “I will never lock up their phones and say anything. Once in a while, I say stuff on stage where I go, ‘Put that phone in your pocket and go into the circle pit.’ But I don’t mean that in a bad way. It’s just a recommendation. It is what it is, and you can’t change people. It’s the way we live now. I mean, my kids are on the phone constantly watching — whatever they do, they are consuming, consuming, consuming. So I don’t know.”
The IN FLAMES singer is not alone in his opinion. Several musicians have voiced concerns in recent years about how mobile technology can negatively impact the concert experience. Notable figures, such as Sebastian Bach, GODSMACK and SLIPKNOT frontman Corey Taylor have all shared their thoughts on the issue.
The Swedish alt-metal band GHOST took a proactive approach during their two September 2023 shows at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles by implementing a device-free policy. Attendees were not allowed to use phones or smartwatches in the performance area. Upon arriving at the venue, concertgoers had their devices securely placed in individual Yondr pouches, which were unlocked at the conclusion of the event.
IN FLAMES unveiled their most recent album, “Foregone,” in February, which was released through Nuclear Blast. Described in a press release as a fusion of the band’s paramount aggressive, metallic, and melodic elements from their iconic records, the album also showcases the seasoned songwriting characteristic of their postmodern era.