The Evolution of Joel Gibb and the Hidden Cameras
A Subversive Legacy
For nearly 25 years, Joel Gibb has infused a queer perspective into spaces that have historically resisted it, from churches to rodeos. This subversive approach is the defining characteristic of his band, the Hidden Cameras. In their early 2000s ascent, Gibb surrounded himself with an eclectic mix of classically trained musicians, amateur performers, and semi-nude go-go dancers. This vibrant ensemble showcased the band’s ability to captivate audiences, setting a standard for Canadian collectives like Arcade Fire and Broken Social Scene.
From Solo Project to Collective Vision
While the Hidden Cameras presented as a collective effort, they originated as Gibb’s solo endeavor. This essence remains intact, as Gibb has continually reimagined the band since relocating to Berlin in 2006. Each album has served as a blank canvas, allowing him to explore new artistic directions while gradually transitioning from the chaotic Toronto art scene to collaborations with established artists. Although his releases have become less frequent, they have also grown increasingly innovative—evident in the goth-dub stylings of 2014’s Age and the country-inspired themes of 2016’s Our Home on Native Land.
The Arrival of Bronto
After a nine-year hiatus, Gibb returns with Bronto, marking his most significant transformation yet. Once a champion of “gay folk church music,” he now crafts tracks that pulse with the energy of the dance floor. While earlier works aligned with indie-pop icons such as the Smiths, Belle and Sebastian, and the Magnetic Fields, Bronto navigates the queer club scene, drawing inspiration from artists like Arthur Russell, Pet Shop Boys, and Hercules and Love Affair. The album embodies a vision where the Hidden Cameras could have signed with DFA instead of Rough Trade in 2003, celebrating the dance floor as a venue for liberation and self-expression.
Candid Songwriting
This shift towards the dance floor is complemented by Gibb’s most vulnerable songwriting to date. It may seem ironic considering his debut featured a track about putting the "you" in urination, yet Gibb has seldom laid bare his emotional turmoil. Bronto opens with the raw and urgent "How do you love?" Here, he pleads to an unresponsive ex, asking, “How can you say that you’re over me?” The track’s driving 4/4 beat and Owen Pallett’s haunting string arrangement intensify the sense of desperation. Even in the more subdued moments, such as in "Undertow," the emotional weight resonates, echoing the sentiments of Robyn’s "Dancing on My Own."
Conclusion
Joel Gibb’s journey with the Hidden Cameras is one of continual reinvention and exploration. Through his unique lens, he has transformed his music from a niche queer perspective to a broader celebration of identity and emotion. With Bronto, Gibb not only showcases his evolution as an artist but also invites listeners to embrace the dance floor as a refuge for authenticity and vulnerability.
FAQs
What themes does Bronto explore?
Bronto navigates themes of love, heartbreak, and self-acceptance, all set against a backdrop of dance music.
How has Joel Gibb’s music evolved over the years?
Gibb’s music has shifted from folk-influenced sounds to more dance-oriented tracks, reflecting a broader exploration of queer identity and emotional depth.
Who are some notable collaborators on Bronto?
While the album features Gibb’s signature style, it also includes contributions from seasoned musicians, showcasing a blend of new and familiar talent.
What is the significance of the album’s title, Bronto?
The title Bronto suggests a playful and bold approach to music, embodying Gibb’s transformation and willingness to embrace new artistic directions.
