"Live Looping" is the process of playing sections of music while simultaneously recording it and then having them repeat over and over (loop). It is then possible to play a second part along with the loop, that overlays on top of the first loop (known as "overdubbing"). Multiple tracks can be overdubbed to form a huge band sound from a single performer. It is possible to loop multiple instruments as well, such as rhythm guitar, bass, rhythms, lead guitar and vocals. There are numerous "looping pedals" available, however I use the BOSS RC-2 (with external footswitch).
Most, if not all, of the looping pedals allow the user to save the loops that are created. They can then be "recalled" at any given time and replayed. Some players save the loops and reuse them, or create loops of "full songs" with the intent of playing along with. THIS IS WHERE "LIVE" LOOPING STOPS!!! There is nothing "live" about recalling tracks previously recorded (even if the performer actually performed them) and playing and/or singing along with these tracks.
I enjoy creating ALL of my loops live, in the moment, and on the spot. There is a risk involved that something can go wrong at any time - and I've seen it - from loss of power (and loop) to broken buttons that wouldn't stop, accidentally hitting the stop (or start) button, or accidentally starting the loop from the previous song. But that's what's fun about it. Pre-recorded loops require you to play the song the same way every time. That's how it's recorded, so that's how it has to be played. True "live looping" doesn't have an arrangement. It's up to the performer to take it wherever they want. It's a little bit of life on the edge.
There are guys out there using pre-recorded tracks - and some of them are pretty good. They just aren't "live looping". In my eyes, that's the difference.
peace...
