Download the newest loom mix, loom Classics from BrentCrampton.com
Download the original loom mix BY CLICKING HERE
Summary of loom as an event concept:
SOCIAL PROGRESS - CONNECTION THROUGH MUSIC & ART - DANCEFLOOR AS SANCTUARY
"loom" is a social ideology by resident DJ Brent Crampton and host Jay "Rhythm SOULdier" Kline, with the idea of creating various social and artistic platforms to promote positive social integration.
For two and a half years, loom has manifested as a monthly dance event at Espana Tapas Restaurant in downtown Benson where Blacks, Whites, Latinos, Asians, young, old, gay, straight have gathered in a peaceful assembly to connect and dance with groups of people they'd normally never encounter in a city that is notorious for its problem of racism.
On the community outreach level, loom has helped coordinate and support community forums on race relations, such as the Loves Jazz & Art Center with United Nations dignitary, Doudou Diene . The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts invited Brent Crampton, to speak on a panel discussion, Building a Creative Community and invited loom to be apart of their first annual Bemis Creativity Festival. Through loom's promotions, they've raised funds and awareness for NextAid.org - which is a non-profit based out of LA that finds sustainable solutions for children orphaned due to AIDS in Africa. They've also provided a platform for various art forms to flourish - everything from film, fashion, gallery shows and live visual/performing art as well as co-sponsored various events that promote loom's social ideology.
Intention of the monthly dance event:
This is not just about dancing, music and drinks. Rather, we are creating a communal experience - people coming together, using music as a mode of fellowship and release. With an environment and music incorporating Latin, African and American culture, this monthly event brings in an eclectic crowd with all ethnicities, religious, cultural and social backgrounds. As David Mancuso says, if you mix the classes, then you have social progress.
The Venue, Espana:
Big clubs are a focal point for the masses, but often at the sacrifice of homogenizing the personal connection with people. Instead, we are going for a small, intimate and hospitable venue. Instead of attempting to acquire 500+ participants during a night, we want 150+ people that are serious and light-hearted about creating a positive, uplifting landscape that will facilitate an escape through music.
Crowd Participation:
In order to accentuate the rhythm in the music, a hand-drum percussionist will be on site and we'll be providing various instruments for the crowd to pick up and join in on the musical creative process. Community instruments such as tambourines, morracas and hand-drums will be available to the crowd.
loom supports . . .
NEXTAID.ORG
NextAid is a Los Angeles based humanitarian organization dedicated to creating sustainable solutions for African children orphaned by AIDS. By partnering with socially-responsible businesses and organizations in the production of music benefits and other awareness-raising activities, NextAid provides immediate and long-term aid to African children in need. NextAid is committed to represent the international dance community in its effective and practical response to the AIDS pandemic.
&
THE NAME TAG PROJECT
A community building project facilitated by Neighbors for Neighbors involving wearing a name tag in public. The Name Tag Project's mission is to foster introductions and conversations between people who would ordinarily sit, stand, or walk by silently to build community.
