Stroboscopic lamps, or strobes, give off a rapid and intense flashing, typically in white. The light source is typically xenon, but some LED equipment can be configured to emulate the strobing effect. Strobes flash extremely quickly and create an optical illusion of slow motion.
This a classic lighting application. It can be used in a manner of ways, from highlighting a musician as they perform their solo to engaging the audience to participate in the performance. Spot lights are typically suspended on an overhead truss, projecting a downward beam that tapers out from the source.
Iconic and futuristic, the laser beam remains an impressive and atmospheric lighting effect. A powerful, colored light projects light through a narrow opening onto a point in the middle distance. They are most commonly used in conjunction with artificial fog, so the light can "hang" on the fog, creating the illusion of solidity as the beam reaches from point to point. Laser lights typically follow a predetermined, computerized pattern. They are most frequently used in big budget productions such as arena tours or television appearances.
Backlighting casts the musicians into silhouette. A row of powerful lamps, typically placed on a truss at the rear of the stage, illuminates the stage from behind, projecting the light toward the audience. The musicians perform between the light source and the audience, and as a result appear as silhouettes. Backlighting can be combined with artificial fog and screens for a more intense silhouette effect.
Standard house-lighting lamps with interchangeable colored gels can create a wash effect. By using a wide focus opening on each lamp, the lights bathe the stage area in a color or blend of colors. The lighting operator can fade the wash in and out, increase the intensity and add extra shades by bringing in new lights. Wash-lighting combined with fog creates an intense image on stage.