Percussion group Callaloo brings steel pan to fore

Peoria Journal Star
The steel pan, three of which are shown here, is the starring instrument for Callaloo, a world fusion percussion ensemble. The Chicago-based group performed Sunday in the Dingeldine Music Center at Bradley University.

Illinois, USA -  Mateusz Koszarek said he wished he could have gotten out of his seat and danced.

His thoughts echoed the sentiments of many audience members at the performance of world fusion percussion ensemble Callaloo on Sunday at Bradley University’s Dingeldine Music Center.

The urge to dance was provoked by a sense of spirit and cheerfulness that pervaded the hall from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

.... As a world fusion group, Callaloo never aspires toward one authentic sound, but borrows from a variety of influences, according to [Scott] Johnson.

He strives to bring the steel pan away from its conventional role.

“People tend to think of steel pan as just the party instrument. I’m trying to get into it being more expressive — an expression of my different feelings and emotions. Not everything we did was happy and lighthearted. Some of it was more serious, or more beautiful and gentle. Some of it was more aggressive. I’m trying to bring out more emotions and communicate that to the audience.”
read more

You need to be a member of When Steel Talks to add comments!

Join When Steel Talks

Votes: 0
Email me when people reply –