'Crystal Method' plays Alumni Hall

The Union Board's instructions for Fusion 2.0 are clear: get your glow sticks ready IU because "The Crystal Method" is coming. Building on the success of last year's Fusion 1.0 concert, Union Board is sponsoring the sequel at 9 p.m. tonight at Alumni Hall in the Indiana Memorial Union. \nFusion 2.0 will kick off with opening acts DJs Conor Larkin and Pat Foosheen, then a set from world famous Las Vegas DJ's, "The Crystal Method."\nJunior Seth Zimmerman, Union Board director of major attractions, said UB wanted to build on last year's concert and make it even better for fans.\n"The event itself last year was pretty successful, but the biggest complaint was that no one knew who the headliner was," Zimmerman said. \nIn addition to the big name, tickets are free with a student ID. Tickets are $10 for non-students. \nFreshman Andrew Meyer, assistant director for research of the Union Board, said "Crystal Method's" trip to IU is to cater to students' variable musical tastes. \n"'The Crystal Method' is a group whose genre appeals to college students," Meyer said. "Hence why they are coming to IU. The show is free, which makes for a great atmosphere, and hey, what college kid says no when they hear the word free?"\nThe group has been heavily promoting its latest album, "Community Service," Meyer said. \n"They're coming here to give the Midwest a live taste of their tight Las Vegas flavored club beats," Meyer said. \n"The Crystal Method" has been churning out successful albums since the mid-'90s, and the instant name recognition of the band will increase ticket sales and create buzz about Fusion 2.0, organizers said. The mix of hip-hop beats, disco and funk with a robust rock 'n' roll attitude has won fans all over the world and has had them hailed as America's premiere techno outfit. Union Board's attractions committee said this year's event should be a success. \nSophomore Claire Tramm, UB director of marketing, said "Crystal Method's" visit to IU could turn into an annual event. \n"The turnout and success of this year's event will determine whether or not the students, who ultimately determine what kinds of programming we do, are ready for a Fusion 3.0," Tramm said. "The main goal for the Union Board right now is to make Fusion 2.0 a success by focusing on the music."\nJust like last year's concert, Fusion 2.0 is a late night event, with a focus on the headliner's music. \n"We've got two great opening DJ's to warm up the crowd and a phenomenal headliner -- what more could you ask for?" Tramm said.\nFor more information about "Crystal Method," ask at the IMU Activities Desk.