Reverie vs Machine

Blasio Kavuma - a composer, producer and DJ working at the intersection of Western classical and Afro-diasporic music - releases his new EP "Soundclash" on nonclassical.

Like a modern-day Arthur Russell, Blasio combines the aesthetics of electronic dance and classical music through the use of percussive samples and extended cello techniques, warping and looping the sounds to create Jungle-style breakbeats in a fresh, unique take on both genres.

Performed by cellist Cecilia Bignall, parts of the suite are also reimagined as full-on Jungle remixes by acclaimed producers Chris Inperspective and Tom Mason.

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Blasio Kavuma was an Artist in Residence with nonclassical from 2019-21. His most recent work, "The Separating Line", was commissioned as part of the Royal Philharmonic Society composers scheme, and was performed by the AMC Gospel Choir and Manchester Camerata in November 2023.

Blasio has composed for theatre and opera, including Dawn Walton's production and "Antigone" and Sky Arts' "The Gods of the Game".He received the George Butterworth Prize for his dance collaboration "Spirit Level" with choreographer Si Rawlinson.

He is currently a doctoral student at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama researching a new methodology of composition which merges Western Classical and Afro-diasporic music.