By Princess Russell |Staff Writer|
CSUSB experienced an eclectic fusion of original American music created by percussion-based duo Loop 2.4.3 April 24 in the Performing Arts Building.
The duo, comprised of Lorne Watson and Tom Kozumplik, had an intimate one-hour performance that showcased their interesting sound. Loop 2.4.3 has an underground sound with a mainstream edge using a unique mix of electronics and percussion.
“The easiest way to describe our sound is classical and percussion,” said Watson. Each performance’s transition from instrument to instrument occurred very naturally. It’s apparent that both Kozumplik and Watson are extremely comfortable with their craft.
In fact, Kozumplik was so comfortable on stage that he performed shoeless during the show. “[We are influenced by] everyone all over the map, from Bach to Slayer, even Afro-Cuban sounds,” said Watson.
One of the highlights of the performance was the song “As a Child” off their new album American Dreamland. “As a Child” was different from the other songs in the showcase, with a lyrical element and a chorus that deviated from the rest of their instrumental songs.
The song could be described as a progressive lullaby, where the words “She loved me as a child / But when it’s gone” were repeated softly throughout the song.
The last song performed, “American Elder,” seemed near and dear to Watson, incorporating the use of Native American influences and drum techniques as well as a wooden flute.
Watson wrote “American Elder” while teaching music on an Indian reservation and while he had the opportunity to learn how to play the Native American flute he uses from a local chief.
“The Return of Chickchi” had the most upbeat tempo. Kozumplik and Watson used the entire drum in this song as if they were not going to let a melody or tune go to waste.
By integrating the use of the side and bottom of the drum, as well as substituting their hands for drumsticks, they were able to manipulate and increase the complex sound of the drum.
The camaraderie between Watson and Kozumplik is very genuine. They regularly used nonverbal signals like head nods and huge smiles as signs of encouragement.
Kozumplik and Watson met at Central Michigan University and have been playing together for over seven years. “If you were part of the loop at Central Michigan then you’ll always be in the loop,” said Watson jokingly.
CSUSB student Jennifer Wong heard about the performance through her music class and came out to see the duo perform. “It’s not what I expected it to be,” said Wong. “I liked the mix of electronic and percussion.”
The new album, American Dreamland, incorporates abstract ideas and a wider variety of sounds and techniques. It is available now on iTunes, CD and 12″ vinyl.
For more information about this dynamic duo visit their website musicstartsfromsilence.com.