Flipped – Review

Welcome back to The Expressionist Magazine

Flipped is by far the best movie I’ve seen in years.  From the very first scene to the closing credits I was captivated by the movie, and I’m still taking about it.  This movie didn’t have any intense graphics, special effects, or any A-list celebrities; it didn’t need them.  Flipped was incredible because of its simplicity.

The movie is based in the late 1950s when a new family moves into town and their son, Bryce Loski (Callan McAuliffe), catches the eye of the neighbor’s daughter, Juli Baker (Madeline Carroll).  This connection would stick with Bryce for years to come, well into junior high school.

Juli Baker is a strong-willed girl, whose mature vision of the world starts off at a young age, intimidating most of her school mates.  Falling for Bryce, she chases this immature boy for years, who wants nothing to do with her at all.  This changes, however, when Juli catches Bryce in a lie.

After seeing his lies, Juli realizes how shallow Bryce is, finally understanding how horrible he treated her all those years.  On the flipped side, Bryce’s eyes are opened to Juli’s inner and outer beauty, realizing how deep and special she really is.  Her strange habits throughout school now made sense to him, causing his heart to ache for this social outcast.  Do they ever get together?  That’s for you to watch and find out.

What I love about the movie is how they take a specific incident and give you both Bryce and Juli’s perception of what happened.  The movie points out the fact that girls mature faster than boys, as you see when each one tells of the incident and how opposite their perception is.

My favorite quote of the movie came when Juli’s dad realized his daughter had feelings for young Bryce, and she knew he really didn’t have the same feelings back.  He said “Juli, you got to see the whole picture sometimes.  For instance, a sunset is just a sunset, a field is just grass, and a cow in that field is just a cow.  However, when you blend them all together, you get a magnificent picture showing the depth of that moment; the true beauty.”

Flipped also personifies the hypocrisy of the ’50s way of life, and how everyone had to be same, or instantly become an outcast.  The same hypocrisy was brought to life in the Monkey’s smash hit, “Pleasant Valley Sunday.”

Warner Brother’s did an amazing job with this movie.  The script was well thought out and well written.  The musical scores were a blast from the past rocking some of the ’50s and ’60s greatest hits.  The acting was supurb, and photography was top notch in my opinion.  It was reminiscent to the blockbuster hit from the ’90s, Forrest Gump. Flipped wouldn’t surprise me if it wins numerous Academy Awards next year.

If you only see one movie this year, make Flipped the one to see.

2012: The Paranormal Cookbook Review

As an author of a book on ghost lore and an avid reader of all things paranormal, I am always looking for new and exciting literature on this particular genre.  Recently, I came across a book on the fascinating topic of the unexplained written by S.M. Belkurov, a.k.a. Shaun B., a paranormal profiler and the co-founder of the group SPOOKS (Springfield Paranormal Organization Operating with Kinetic Surveillance).  Belkurov has been investigating the paranormal and strange for 18 years now.

The Springfield, Missouri writer has created a book that embarks on topics in the paranormal which are rarely touched.  I have read stacks of books on ghost lore and folklore in my 34 years, but none like The Paranormal Cookbook.  Before turning the first page, I thought that I would find a collection of recipes.  How to make ghost goulash?  Perhaps chupacabra casserole?  Well, maybe it was just wishful thinking as I was pretty hungry when I decided to read it.  I was pleasantly surprised though when I realized this cookbook had nothing to do with food at all.  Instead, this was a cookbook chock-full of cryptozoology, ghost lore and unexplainable legends.  The book mentions everything from Skinwalker sightings and UFOs to hellhounds and poltergeists.  There is something for every paranormal enthusiast in this publication.

Belkurov included many detailed accounts and examples of various cases which have taken place over the years in the paranormal field, such as the story of the Fox sisters, considered to be early day charlatans.  Also discussed in the book is the famous case of the Bell Witch of Tennessee, a tale that needs to be read by every paranormal enthusiast.  Belkurov talks about the mysterious Men in Black, explaining that it’s more than just a Will Smith movie.  Then there are the phantom clowns.  Now, I must admit, I don’t care for clowns.  No, let me rephrase that.  I detest them.  To me, those pasty white faces and big, floppy shoes represent evil in its purest form.  For those of you who share my feeling or have seen Stephen King’s IT, you will definitely be spooked when reading Belkurov’s section on this variety of carnival creep.  Black Eyed Kids, or BEKs, are also mentioned in Belkurov’s publication, and for those of you who are familiar with these menancing minors, you will want to read on.  If cryptids are more your thing, this author features some great ones such as the Mothman, Bigfoot and my all time personal favorite, the Jersey Devil.  Throughout the book, Belkurov cites the well-known and respected cryptozoologist, Loren Coleman, and supplies us with his thoughts on these strange and unusual cryptid curiosities which lurk amongst us.

In addition to his highly detailed accounts of cryptozoology and various legends, Belkurov includes the ever popular topic of ghosts.  I greatly enjoyed how he considers “ghost hunting to be the new black,” referring to the recent rise in the field of the paranormal.  The author goes on to speak of para-mania by saying that paranormal researchers “were once perceived like an odd, mentally challenged uncle that everyone puts up with, but no one takes seriously.  We are now the life of the party.” As far as I am concerned, no truer words have been spoken.  I have often uttered very similar words to my colleagues.  Belkurov continues to discuss the popularity of ghosts right now in the media, and even lists numerous para-reality television shows and para-films that are the current craze.  The author also includes accounts of old-fashioned seances, and certain controversial tools used in the field today such as Ouija boards and mirrors.

For the eternal pessimist and doomsday lover alike, Belkurov talks about the great prophecies of 2012.  Will the world really come to an end, or is it just hype?  And for the scientist, there is plenty on Quantum Physics, observer effects and synchronicity.  The Paranormal Cookbook presents the intertwinement of science and the paranormal, and whether or not skeptics can ever transition into becoming believers.

Spirituality and religion are not left behind in Belkurov’s book either, as he touches upon Christianity and more New Age beliefs such as hypnosis, yoga and mediation.  In addition, the writer embraces sensitive topics such as Satanism, the rituals involved and the associated stigmata.

I must say that one of my favorite stories, albeit short in length and perhaps overlooked by some readers, is about validity of the afterlife.  The story called “Roses in the Snow,” is one of Belkurov’s first tales in his book, and one which is most touching.  I will not give away the story, but what I can say is, it shows strong support for the continuation of life even after death.  I also took great pleasure in reading a blip on Belkurov’s ideas of paranormal exchange programs and how we, as field researchers, can learn from and collaborate with others instead of being competitive and petty.  This really hit home for me as I recently had a situation arise with a fellow investigator who felt the need to be territorial in her research, rather than working along with me.  It’s sad to see this happen so often in the field of paranormal investigation, so to hear that others share my world-peace view is very reassuring.  In addition to these great pieces, I found myself re-reading over and over the section on cursed movies.  I am a huge fan of horror, and this was a section that I found to be quite fascinating.  Most of us are familiar with the tragic deaths of the young female actresses in the movie Poltergiest, but there were also other films who had their share of unfortunate events during and after production.  You certainly won’t want to miss this chapter.

Belkurov provides much literature on the topic of parapsychology, its legitimacy and its pioneers we know so well, such as J.B. Rhine.  It is obvious that Belkurov is knowedgable and has done his research on the subject.  His accounts are thorough and nicely constructed.  He also speaks to his readers about psychic abilities, and strong intent or will, which may possibly influence the environment around us.  Are we too quick as a paranormal-loving society to accept the unexplained as just that, or are these unusual experiences power of the mind, coaxed mentally?  Can we attribute ghostly images to something more rational, and logically explained?  Belkurov asks the important question, “Can science explain everything?”  Are there mysteries in our universe that science simply cannot touch?  I’m with Blekurov on this one, “I want to believe.”

In conclusion, Belkurov expertly provides detailed text on belief systems, various theories and what they all mean.  We learn, as readers, about supernatural experiences and how we process them.  Belkurov’s ample listings throughout his book of psychological and scientific experiments are sure to grab the attention of those well-versed in the paranormal, as well as those who are just learning.  Paranormal phenomenon of all kinds is nicely represented in this book.  Belkurov gives us chapter after chapter of great insight to various hard-to-explain theories and phenomenon based on strong, valid research.  This book is highly detailed and smartly written, with a touch of humor and wit. Belkurov mixes magic and psychology with science and religion into one big crock pot.  He stirs them together and lets them simmer until the end result is nothing short of paranormally delicious.  With a sprinkle and dash of legend and lore, Belkurov got the ingredients just right.

S.M. Belkurov can be contacted through his website: SPOOKSFIELD.COM

Backdrifter – Sum Of Influence Review

Grabbing their name from a lyric inspired by modern rockers Radiohead, the Culver City based act Backdrifter, from sunny California, formed in late 2008 and since then has not looked back. Steve Watkins and Nate Waxler formally of “The Hypothetical Band” had begun to search for what they knew would conclude their brand new formation Backdrifter.

Soon after the formation had come to a completion and thus the line-up was born, with drummer Terry Barajas, as well as singers Adriann Helton and Kryss Deetch. Now all that was left to do was to make music! This is of course what occurred and what lead the band to unleashing their smashing debut efforts “Sum of Influence”.

Comprising of 12 various tracks you’re divided up with your average rock blended in with some modern blues riffs with punk folk attitude driven in between. That showcases the real music being used here, like for instance, “The Great Divide”, “Sunny Days”, “Everything You Gave Away”, and “Stolen Air”, all consists of that same momentum the mellow pulsing rate of the drums with upbeat guitar riffs that tend to play against each other if not using an on and off type of method.

Lyrically the words are out spoken and overpower the music’s performance rating by drowning out the music the listener is hearing and replacing it rather than with a more aggressive affection. The listener hears what’s being said and can find themselves bobbing their head to each of the notes being played out its very catchy and makes the music bounce per each beat.

Backdrifter’s style is humble and calm breaking down the beat of the music in every which way possible never missing a beat let alone the mood you feel while listening in, makes these folk blues rockers rocking with absolute ease.

Prelude To A Dream -Review

Title: Prelude To A Dream
Singer: Jackie Evancho
Album #: Debut Album
Label: Unsigned
Genre: Crossover Contemporary
Web Site: www.jackieevancho.org

Songs On The Album:

1. Everytime
2. Concrete Angel
3. Teaching Angels How To Fly
4. Starry Starry Night
5. Think Of Me
6. Memory
7. To Where You Are
8. River Of Dreams
9. Dark Waltz
10. The Prayer
11. Amazing Grace
12. Ave Maria
13. O Mio Babino Caro
14. Con Te Partiro

Classical crossover is music that tells a story. It must be compelling and elegant in its delivery, and it must make the listener feel every emotion and become one with the song.  This genre takes a special kind of musician because you’re not only a singer, you’re a storyteller and an actor/actress in the same light.  Many musicians (singers) tend to shy away from the genre just because of its complexity, but those that stand the challenge and love it, know how to make it work.  When done right, this genre is an exquisite example of singing at its best.

Jackie Evancho’s debut album, Prelude To A Dream, is exactly what classical crossover should sound like.  This nine-year-old girl sings like a bird, with perfect harmony, passion, and heart. These very qualities allow Jackie to tell her story while providing the listener the feeling they are apart of the story she sings.  Jackie’s vocals on this CD are second to none; she has pitch perfect control and powerful vocals when needed, while delivering a sweet innocence in her voice that makes her singing oh so sweet.  What’s even more amazing is that her voice sounds mature in her songs, setting her up for a long career when her voice does change in the near future.

Jackie demonstrates her talent most in the song, “O Mio Babino Caro.”  I am amazed at the power and range she is able to achieve on this song.  You can tell from the first word out of her mouth that she loves this song and is ready to do it justice; an instant hit for her.  Some other great songs to mention on this album are “Teaching Angels How To Fly” for its sweet, soothing and heart-warming story and vocals, and also “Amazing Grace.”  I, personally, love the music compilation of this track; it helps add strength and beauty to Jackie’s already amazing voice.

We would definitely recommend this CD to anyone, and if you don’t like classical crossover, Jackie will make you a fan.  

RATING:   5 out of 5

A Fire Inside “Crash Love” CD Review

A Fire Inside or AFI for short, have been around for the past 18 years unleashing upon the music scene seven LPs to date with their eighth “Crash Love,” on the way. But the deal with AFI is a simple known fact, they’ve never seem to stick out with the same sound for more than a couple of albums. Their first being “Answer That and Stay Fashionable,” in 1995. Then the band went on to release “Very Proud of Ya,” the following year, followed up by a third three years later, “Shut Your Mouth and Open Your Eyes.”

Since the earlier creations, AFI has indeed like most bands changed their style to blend in along with the rest of the crowd, just like today’s fads same routine goes for music – AFI went from the stick liking’s of punk down to hardcore punk to horror punk in a matter of just a few years. 1999′s “Black Sails in the Sunset,” and 2000′s “The Art of Drowning,” it wasn’t until 12 years later that the band had stuck major success when it came down to “Sing The Sorrow,” (2003) having the well known hits, “Girl’s Not Grey” and “The Leaving Song, Pt. II,” aside from the others found upon this album. Then the band had taken a brief hiatus and returned in 2006 with “Decemberunderground,” that featured break-through single “Miss Murder,” and second smash-up “Love Like Winter,” now their eighth achievement is on the floor, and “Crash Love,” isn’t all the hype that AFI has been known to establish.

“Crash love,” does play the band’s strongest points to date but goes back to blending into the modern rock n roll vibrations that they changed not so long ago, there are some “old school” influences found upon the album such as “Medicate,” that constantly builds up that classic punk style with galloping guitar riffs with fast racing drum tactics getting your blood pumped. Guitarist Jade Puget steps it up in a major way when “OK, I feel Better Now,” showcasing his standout performance to date, starting off with a trade marking chiming chord sequence, before working into the strummed octaves and some unexpected, game-changing chord effects found within the third verse.

The other songs, make a particular marking that vocalist Davey Havok stays true to his fascination with death and self-destruction, not going away from those themes one bit but encouraging them a lot more. While “Crash Love,” never seems to hit the lyrical highs that “Sing The Sorrow” had once struck – “Veronica Sawyer Smokes,” may just be the most out-standing tune offered, let alone written about Winona Ryder, having Davey’s vocal skills be at their best perfection level to date, allowing him to sing the following line is remarkable: “I saw you every time I closed my eyes, in the Hughes film I had scored, produced and starred in, in my mind.” Nevertheless, Davey’s vocal contribution makes this song work in every way possible – laying out the voices and chorus structure in the perfect combination, having the rest of the music fall simply into place.

“Crash Love,” doesn’t demand for the listener to pay attention to everything spoken yet alone played to the same chord as their previous accomplishments, but it reveals a more intricate and well-constructed album, rarely lacking any proportion of quality or anything else falling out of place.

Written By Natalie Perez

Children Of Bodom Show Review

When you enter the world of metal what is expected to normally happen? Well of course chaos should be one and that is indeed what happens when you enter this “sea of chaos” or perhaps a “sea of black”. On this night three metal bands have come together to create a unique musical atomsphere that all metal heads would be amazed and satsified with from all various angles. Be sure to capture all the chaos that Ohio metallers SKELETONWITCH build up, leding straight into the thundering force field of THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, right into the main attraction of the night, Finlanders, CHILDREN OF BODOM!

Skeletonwitch

Ever attended a mini block party? Well now is your chance at experiencing your first one, how about joining in on all the fun with the spiraling circle of black! Hence I mean the crowd of people dressed all in black proudly expressing their love and devotion to one of the three musical acts that were set to set the stage that forsaken night out at the Glass House in chilly Pomona, California.

First up was an act from Athens, Ohio one who dislikes the fact that not too many people are aware of what type of music they actually perform, so I guess it would just be your plain old heavy metal if I do say so myself but a very upgraded version. Any who, Ohio’s Anthener’s Skeletonwitch brought on the fiery blaze for a non-stop 30 minutes bringing on the skull crushing beer drinking sensation left and right, as the crowd interacted from all various angles – singing such songs off “Beyond the Permafrost,” and new comer, “Breathing the Fire,” due out on October 13th. Some of the head crushing tunes consisted of “Soul Thrashing Black Sorcery,” “Within My Blood,” the title track, along with a douse of double trouble off the newbie album, “Crushed Beyond Dust,” and “Strangled By Unseen Hands”. The front man declaring his statements throughout the set – wrapping it all up when it came to a closing point with “Smoke Weed, Drink Beer, and Eat Some F**king Pussy”.

Setlist

01. Sacrifice for the Slaughtergod
02. Fire From the Sky
03. Crushed Beyond Dust
04. Upon Wings of Black
05. Beyond the Permafrost
06. Submit To The Suffering
07. Soul Thrashing Black Sorcery
08. The Despoiler Of Human Life
09. Within My Blood

The Black Dahlia Murder

Next up was a band everybody was in “die-hopes” of seeing and of course they did, known simply as The Black Dahlia Murder who threw together a 45 minute set capacity that couldn’t hold it altogether when it came to this aggressive crowd of metal heads shouting and being thrown around like a rag dolls singing along to each and every song that came pulsing out of the vocalist along with his band mates to top it all off. Once they set had came to a closing point the final contender of the night that everyone was obviously here for, was up for their hour and a half glory.

Setlist

01. Everything Went Black
02. Black Valor
03. Closed Casket Requiem
04. Necropolis
05. A Vulgar Picture
06. What A Horrible Night to Have A Curse
07. Christ Deformed
08. Miasma
09. Funeral Thirst

Children Of Bodom

Finland’s finest musicians around being led by one of the most talented guitarists around, Alexi Laiho, Children of Bodom was the main attraction of tonight’s metal frenzy, starting the show off with “Living Dead Beat,” rolling right into “Hellhounds On My Trail,” finishing off the introduction with classic but true “Silent Night, Bodom Night.” But that’s not all, the band continued their classic chaos with “Hate Me,” going down the lines of other top notch tunes, “Bodom After Midnight,” “Are You Dead Yet?,” “Blooddrunk,” rounding it all off with “Hate Crew Deathroll,” dedicated to all the hardcore Children Of Bodom fans within the sea of black.

The night closed off to being as I foretold it would, a “sea of black,” and indeed that’s what it was and had becoming, its waves of triumph pushing over anyone/anything that came in its path of destruction.

Setlist

01. Living Dead Beat
02. Hellhounds On My Trail
03. Silent Night, Bodom Night
04. Hate Me!
05. Follow The Reaper
06. Lake Bodom
07. Bodom After Midnight
08. Are You Dead Yet?
09. Blooddrunk
10. Angels Don’t Kill
11. In Your Face
12. Children Of Decadence
13-.Bodom Beach Terror
14. Downfall
———–
15. Everytime I Die
16. Hate Crew Deathroll

By: Natalie Perez

Degrassi Goes Hollywood

When it comes to drama there is only one place that handles it all no matter the shape or size and that place is Degrassi High. Reuniting once again to re-live their old school drama terms, Manny (Cassie Steele), Paige (Lauren Collins), Marco (Adam Ruggiero) Ellie (Stacey Farber) along with Craig (Jake Epstein) join forces once again to showcase what friendship and love is truly about.

That’s the theme for Degrassi Goes Hollywood, when Manny bombs her audition for Jason Mewe’s new film, she must face the drama when he casts a replacement. Paige fills in for her instead unleashing a spiraling circle of chaos as soon as making her way onto the set. Paiges old friends Marco and Ellie fly out to Hollywood in Paiges time of need and support her but soon realize she’s become a Hollywood diva overnight. While out in Los Angeles Ellie reunites with an old flame Craig and old emotions begin to flutter between the former pair. Meanwhile Manny and Jay along with the band mates of The Studz board a school bus for a cross-country road trip to help Manny reclaim the lead role in Jason’s film Mewsical High. After their arrival Manny goes off to become Hollywood’s next BIG thing whereas Paige is tossed in the backdrop helping her along the way. During all this fame and fortune for the Degrassi ladies, Ellie and Craig get in yet another fund because the feelings they have for one another. When it’s all said and done, Ellie and Craig realize they’re fate. As Ellie flies back out to be at her father’s side because of his illness and remaining in the hospital.

Degrassi Goes Hollywood isn’t your typical Degrassi episode but it still impacts the same high school drama deliverance that will always linger and remain a treasured loved

Written by: Natalie Perez

Anime Expo Celebrates Independence

Southern California holds some of the most unique events around the Los Angeles County from concerts to movie premiere’s to conventions down to expos each one being more interesting than the last. But this time we’re here to discuss an expo side of L.A. And an annual one to be precise one that’s been hitting it hard since the start back in 1992. I’m talking about the one and only Anime Expo, abbreviated AX, an American anime convention that usually takes place during the 4th of July weekend festivities but varies each year.

This time around it held its doors open allowing more than over 40,000+ Unique Attendees at the Nation¹s Largest Anime and Manga Event. Everyone and anyone were willing to come down from all over to bear witness the fun and excitement that is offered. From karaoke contests, to costume contests to merch booths selling items you cannot find anywhere else. The Anime Expo is hosted by a non-profit Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation (SPJA). The SPJA has held a handful of other Anime Expo’s throughout the world i.e. New York, Tokyo that took place respectively in 2002 and 2004. Instantly growing as the time goes on. But that cannot maintain the mayhem and pure adrenaline rush that these crazed fans can’t get enough of. Hundreds roamed the many halls of the Los Angeles convention center dressed up as their favorite characters being admired by all who wanted to catch a glimpse or get a shot alongside their favorable characters. Ranging from Death Note, Fullmetal Alchemist, Inuyasha, Naruto, Pokemon, Sailor Moon, Dragonball Series, Bleach the list goes on and on all sorts of anime was being tossed around. But aside from the main hole in the wall merchandise world throughout the convention several rooms were held up holding contests and movie airings, rock concerts, panel discussions, you name it. It was being showcased one way or another.

This year’s anime expo had brought in a ton of fun and pure happiness everywhere you looked. Everyone who was involved or just checking out the sights and many sounds offered throughout the convention was talking. It brought out the fun and kept it flowing throughout the entire event. Not missing a single person in attendance. Be sure to not miss out on your chance come next year’s fun and total excitement.

Written by Natalie Perez

I Love You, Beth Cooper

I Love You, Beth Cooper was not your typical teen movie of the past, which were full of nudity and reckless sex, in fact, this movie was very refreshing. This comedy was very entertaining, outright hilarious and I loved every minute and didn’t once think twice that there wasn’t any nudity.  I would easily call this one of the best comedies of the summer and dare I say the year.  Larry Doyal masterfully wrote a movie that was entertaining without the unnecessary attractions.

The movie takes place in a small town in Washington state, where a graduating high school class was about to be shaken up by someone they all least expected, the valedictorian, Dennis Cooverman.  This nerdy classmate has sat behind Beth Cooper all his life, and never had the chance to even talk to this popular head cheerleader.  With graduation commencement taking place and his speech being the last thing his class will hear, he’s faced with a now or never regret should he not profess his undying love for Beth Cooper.  Dennis Cooverman does so in the speech, in front of the entire school and also throws out some other matter of facts for some of his other classmates, causing extreme anger towards him.

After graduation, Beth Cooper confronts him and Dennis Cooverman asks her to come to his post graduation party.  Surprisingly they show up, Beth and her friends (a.k.a. The Beauty Trifecta), and what happens next is the ride of Dennis’ life.  Her angry boyfriend who is all coked up arrives at the house and attempts to kill Dennis and his friend, and Beth saves them from his rage.  She takes them on an amazing adventure with crazy driving, underage drinking, and parties across the city, each time dodging or barely leaving with their lives from her boyfriend who is tracking her every move.

The party ends up in a cabin outside of the city, where Beth and Dennis sit and discuss their plans, and Beth sadly confesses her high school life was the best ride she’ll have; her time is done from here on in.  Dennis tells her after the night they just had, that statement was a line of crap and she was in for the ride of her life.  He also sees this image he had of Beth Cooper through the years broken as she proved to be a bit more rambunctious than expected, but he fell in love with that girl, too.

Hayden Panettiere was amazing in the role.  Her character plays a typical Panettiere role; the popular cheerleader type that’s tough and is not easily pushed around.  She’s fun and lives life to the fullest, even to the point of a bully that is just a bit misunderstood.  In the end of the movie, she turns into something we are not used to seeing from her roles; a character who is unsure of herself, who has doubts and is vulnerable under that tough facade.  It was amazing watching that side of a character for her and she did it with ease.

I would highly recommend this movie to anyone, and if you are a parent and afraid there would be nudity or extreme vulgarity, think again.  The closest you’ll get to nudity is a topless back shot of Panettiere, and you couldn’t see anything.  Anyone of any age would like this, but still, it is R-rated so parents should be there with their kids.

This movie receives 5 out of 5 stars.  It will make you laugh, cry and realize you can enjoy life; it doesn’t stop after high school, it’s only how you make it.

Stomp Romping Into Tampa

Downtown Tampa was rocked when the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center hosted one of the most intensely physical, rhythmic percussion shows I have ever seen.  Stomp “drummed” up a crowd and took the hearts of their patrons by storm.  I don’t think I witnessed one person not amazed by their performance in that sold out theater.

Stomp is a performance with an urban feel to it, but resembles so many different aspects that it’s hard to put it all into a list.  It’s as intense as River Dance with a blue collar urban feel, but I also see Cirque De Soleil and West Side Story, all masterfully blended into its own unique play.  This show would amaze Fred Astaire for sure.

From start to finish, it was an hour and forty-five minutes of non-stop rhythm. The performers used their bodies, brooms, Zippos, trash cans, signs, newspaper, and anything else they could find to make incredible sounds with.  They combined karate, slapstick, juggling, tap dancing, comedy, intense lighting and the feeling of friendship that will send your emotions running all over the spectrum.  I was awestruck with the choreography of this show, and have a new found respect for the level of physical and mental endurance as well as the countless hours needed to learn this act.  They are true sportsmen and theatrical artists combined into one true package.

What I like the best about this show is the feeling of urban friends (ie. New York City) getting together on a hot summer day, behind one of their places of employment, down an alley chilling out.  They come up with some incredible sounds and dancing to pass the time away.  If you ever lived in a big city, you will know what I mean when you see Stomp.

Stomp is definitely one of the best shows I’ve ever seen; a must for anyone who loves dance and intense choreography. Stomp is a show perfect for any one of any age and race.  When they’re done, you’ll be out of breath and feel sore just from watching.  Oh yeah, they will get you involved in the show, too.

The Expressionist Magazine gives this intense show 5 out of 5 stars, and a big kudos to all the performers who made this look easy.  We also thank the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center for having this show for the people of Tampa to be amazed with.

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