Maybe it's cuz I wasn't there to experience it firsthand, but that actually sounds pretty cool and something I'd be willing to tolerate if it's for artistic reasons. Shit, I've gone through many shows without AC anyways. But, I don't see how it's any different than Iggy Pop or Alan Vega's confrontational stage antics (jumping into the crowd, etc.), done in an attempt to break the barrier between the stage and the audience at concerts. It all comes down to the artist understanding that the state of mind and mood that the viewer/listener is in plays a huge factor in their overall evaluation of the performance.
I guess it all depends on whether the audience member sees a live show's potential in being performance art. Perhaps this Calvin Johnson fella didn't have the best of intentions, and maybe it even bordered on the side of self indulgence with contempt for the audience, but I think it's important to keep an open mind. Personally, I am always looking for an artist to leave any kind of impression on me, be it a good one or a bad one. Most of the time, what I read/see/hear leaves no impact whatsoever, but when something sticks with you, it makes it all worthwhile.
