By Princess Russell |Staff Writer| CSUSB students got a glimpse into the creative world of Synthia St. James Thursday May 24 at the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art. "Living My Dream: A Conversation with the Artist Synthia Saint James" was an intimate setting of chairs filled with enthusiastic audience members ready to hear the inspirational words of St. James. The world-renowned artist, author, illustrator and public speaker visited the campus to talk about her art and particularly her new book, "Living My Dream: An Artistic Approach to Marketing." The event was not a stern lecture, instead St. James created the humble atmosphere of a casual gathering. "I'm just … [Read more...] about Synthia St. James brings creativity to CSUSB
Princess Russell
Beach House’s new album casts a musical spell
By Princess Russell |Staff Writer| Bloom, Beach House’s first album in over two years, is a darkly melodramatic mix of dream- pop that consumes you upon the first listen. The album is the Baltimore-based indie band’s follow up to their critically-acclaimed sophomore album, “Teen Dream.” This new work picks up right where “Dream” left off. The simple yet appealing track titles such as “Myth,” “Lazuli” and “Trouble Maker” intrigue listeners and sets the tone for the decadently dark lyrics each song brings. Every track has a uniquely distinct introduction. Much of the album could easily be the soundtrack to a major motion picture. Bloom doesn’t capture its listeners with an … [Read more...] about Beach House’s new album casts a musical spell
The Lyricist Lounge showcases the IE’s best local acts
By Princess Russell |Staff Writer| Passionate poets and inspiring Hip-Hop artists convened at the SMSU Events Center May 4 for the annual Lyricist Lounge show. The show was an eclectic and cohesive mixture of the raw talent from various up and coming artists in the Inland Empire. This wasn’t your everyday run of the mill talent show; it was a masterful exhibit of the progression of artistry in the region. The brothers of the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity hosted the awe-inspiring event and many of the performances were done by some of CSUSB’s very own students. The Events Center was filled with supporters, including everyone from alumni to family to members of the music … [Read more...] about The Lyricist Lounge showcases the IE’s best local acts
Spring Splash brings the heat
By Princess Russell |Staff Writer| Crowds of crazy fans crammed into UC Riverside during the hottest day in April for the school's annual Spring Splash festival. Many felt the combination of heat and anticipation in the air for the new age Hip-Hop sounds of rap artist Kendrick Lamar and the classic R&B music of Musiq Soulchild. The votes were split when it came to which headlining artist would be the most highly anticipated. From the time the festival doors opened, eager fans were counting down the minutes until their favorite headliners performed. “Kendrick is the headliner," said student Clyde Durden. "I think everyone came to see him.” “I want to see both Kendrick and … [Read more...] about Spring Splash brings the heat
Percussion pair Loop 2.4.3 is pitch perfect
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 … [Read more...] about Percussion pair Loop 2.4.3 is pitch perfect
Norah Jones gets dangerous with new album
By Princess K. Russell |Staff Writer| Norah Jones takes a walk on the wild side with her beautiful new album. “Little Broken Hearts” is a smooth and easy listen. Jones doesn't draw listeners in with riffs and vibratos but with a unique vocal rawness and elegance that is all her own. The entire project was produced by Brian Barton, also known as Danger Mouse. The pair collaborated last year in May on his album “Rome" and the musical chemistry is definitely apparent within this production. “Little Broken Hearts” takes the listener's ears through a cosmic journey of hybrid musical styles and rhythms that range from contemporary blues to jazz and rock. This is especially heard on the … [Read more...] about Norah Jones gets dangerous with new album