Nick Benidt (VJ Bandit)

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It is my job to make images go well with music. This doesn’t mean simply making visuals match the beat or rhythm of the DJ, but creating a narrative with the sounds and textures provided. It means mirroring the emotions and ideas put forth. Through live video editing I add to the experience of a concert or party by seamlessly linking the audiences’ eyes and ears to form a complete sensory experience.

I started VJing at Projekt Underdog’s underground Techno parties, and gained experience in the scene and knowledge of my art, but a life-long love of music has since led me to work in all genres. In Montreal’s well-known Indie-rock scene I’ve worked extensively with one of the cities most talented up-and-coming bands, Sweet Mother Logic. Together we’ve worked with festivals like Pop Montreal and Concordia University’s Art Matters, mounting ambitious projects like Jehovah’s 3D Mega Party, a multimedia concert/puppet-show/storytelling event, featuring live stereoscopic 3D visuals. (Red-blue glasses given at the door)

When performing I use all different types of images, ranging from grainy small format film clips originally shot on Super 8mm, Original 8mm and 16mm, to sharp looking digital graphics. I am inspired by animation and textures, and obsessed with motion. In the age of high-resolution images, I embrace the imperfections and aesthetic of consumer video technology, as well as the spontaneity of creation for which the form lends itself. Constantly shooting and collecting images, I try to bring forth new material to each live performance.

My first DVD, a Video E.P. featuring the music of the Hypocrites, is a concept album, an 8mm road trip film with footage exclusively from the 1950’s. In the future I hope to release full-length video mixes to accompany the music of the DJ’s and bands that I like.

Since February of 2008 I've performed at over 70 live shows and parties. When I’m not VJing I make experimental films and videos.