German electro pop pioneers Kraftwerk will use Dataton Watchout multi-image and presentation software for all on-stage digital scenography throughout 2013. German electro pop pioneers Kraftwerk will use the dynamic interactive and 3D features of Dataton Watchout multi-image and presentation software for all on-stage digital scenography at their hotly anticipated tours and concerts’ programme throughout 2013. Formed in 1970, Kraftwerk began using stereoscopic 3D for the MoMA concerts and Way out West Swedish Rock Festival in spring 2012. Watchout manages projected 3D content on a large stage backdrop creating a powerful abstract presence in front of audiences wearing polarised 3D glasses. Two more Watchout channels feed the flanking LED screens. To create the lighting effects on the four oversized illuminated keyboards, a Pixel-gate LED video controller uses an additional DVI output from the main screen using Watchout’s Tier feature. The main timeline in Watchout is chasing timecode from Kraftwerk synthesizers (MTC converted into SMPTE). The Kraftwerk synthesizers are also used for live visual interaction controlled via MIDI commands. The new features of Watchout version 5 enable live manipulation of content. Media objects can be positioned, rotated and moved in 3D in real-time from external control systems, musical instruments, lighting consoles, mobile devices and sensors to control on-screen elements such as images, video, Stereoscopic 3D movies and live feeds as required. Fredrik Svahnberg, marketing director at Dataton, said: “Kraftwerk are known for their use of bold graphics and colours. They are using our technology in a very easy to use, yet powerful way to engage audiences around the world. We’re looking forward to seeing Kraftwerk use the new 3D, interactive and dynamic media streaming features of Watchout in 2013 and beyond.”
Dataton is exhibiting at ISE 2013, and is holding a party on Tuesday 29 January at 17:00 on its stand (7-K175). Photography: © Kraftwerk www.dataton.com
