The present work is the fruition of several years research and development, which in itself was the culmination of fifteen years solo work preceding it.
One of the fundamental problems which confronted me as an artist, was how to combine these disciplines in a coherent and satisfactory form. In my opinion the two are inseparable, however aside from the logistical problems (techniques, presentation, ext.) There was/is the formidable obstacle of the reductive and formative thinking which is unfortunately dominates not only the arts and sciences, but even the basic tenets and reflections of culture and society itself.
In the course of this work many exigencies had to be met, solutions found and/or invented techniques evolved and language created. the design and development of both, the instrument and music/dance techniques are of my invention. However they do derive from previous elements and it would be at once both disingenuous and pretentious claim otherwise.
Nor would I, for a tree is after only strong relative to the roots from which it derives. In point of fact this work is a new form of interactive percussion. I view it to be in hereditary line with the modern drum kit, which in its own development has been rife with peculiar and hybrid inventions. Most importantly has been its role as a messenger and relayer of information both physical and psychical within the culture, which originated and developed it. Transmitting not only rhythms but linguistic syntax as well.
Thus closing a circle and partially healing the effects of the dreadful holocaust of American slavery. And so above all this work is an acknowledgment of my debt for artistic and spiritual inspiration to that mighty river: African-American music.