DJ Spooky: The True Definition of Fusion

Washington D.C.-based DJ Spooky represents the fusion of hip hop and classical music.

His hour and 45 minute performance at the Nelson Nov. 11 was the perfect mix of styles. The evening served as the world premiere of Spooky’s audio-visual tribute to artist Romare Bearden.

Backed by the UMKC string quartet, Spooky spun out his sprawling compositions on three vinyl turntables and a Macbook. The show was controlled completely from his iPad app.

Bearden’s spiraling, hypnotic visuals were synchronized with Spooky’s sound collages to create a fully-formed experience. In-between songs, DJ Spooky discussed how he was inspired by Bearden’s collage and copy-and-paste artwork.

Spooky’s creative use of samples showcased how he has been inspired by these techniques. The live string section added depth and body to the sound. Spooky only briefly showed off his technical skills on the turntables. The show focused more on Spooky’s skill as a composer and arranger than as a DJ.

The evening was a mix of hip hop breaks and bass with classical music. The playing of the string section would overlap with the loops and scratching from Spooky to create something completely unique. His remix of Bach’s “Goldberg Variations” merged prerecorded piano loops, the live playing of the string section and tolling hip hop bass. His piece commissioned by the NAACP was a moving tribute to the history of the Civil Rights movement.

Throughout the night, sounds, styles and eras of music and art all merged together to create a work that was both classic and forward thinking.