David Byrne Challenges Concert Conventions with New album, Expansive Tour
BERLIN – David Byrne, known for his innovative stagecraft and distinctive musical style, has released a new album, Who Is the Sky?, and embarked on a world tour redefining the live music experience. The album, released September 5, 2025, continues Byrne’s exploration of upbeat themes and unconventional arrangements, while his current tour features thirteen musicians performing a highly choreographed show with no visible cords, microphones, or apparatus.
The album’s tracks, including “Everybody Laughs” and “My Apartment Is My Friend,” explore themes of connection, introspection, and finding joy in simplicity. One song, “I Met the Buddha at a Downtown Party,” encapsulates the album’s message: “do not take everything so seriously, rejoice in the little things, laugh a lot.love yourself.”
Critics note the album’s consistently positive tone, though some find the arrangements bordering on kitsch. however, the live show promises a more immersive experience. Described as “unforgettable” based on television previews, the tour’s choreography and minimalist stage setup are a departure from traditional concert formats.
The tour will come closest to the Czech Republic with a performance on Febuary 12 in Berlin. Byrne previously gained acclaim for his American Utopia tour, which similarly emphasized movement and a stripped-down aesthetic.
