THE PROJECT
A unique non-traditional chamber ensemble, Hybrid Groove Project is a collaboration, featuring saxophonist Brian Sacawa and composer / turntablist DJ Dubble8 (a.k.a. Dr. Erik Spangler). Synthesizing elements from traditions as diverse as modern classical music, free jazz, funk, and break-beat electronica, the project emphasizes affinities between these various influences in a union of groove and sonic experimentation. Sacawa and Dubble8 first teamed up in 2004 for a multimedia concert at the University of Michigan in collaboration with internationally acclaimed video artist Johnny DeKam. Since then, Hybrid Groove Project has evolved to become a cutting-edge performance model for new music, embracing the idea of live remix in the presentation of both original and borrowed compositions.
Individual bios
BRIAN (saxophones)
Praised as "an inventive musician" (The New York Times) and "a sharp new-music saxophonist" (Time Out New York), Brian Sacawa has firmly established himself as an important contemporary voice for his instrument. Active internationally as a soloist, recitalist, and chamber musician, his versatile career has led to appearances ranging from the concert stage to club settings as well as the premieres of over 50 new works for saxophone by both established and emerging composers. Mr. Sacawa's critically acclaimed, Grammy-winning recordings can be heard on the Naxos, Innova, Equilibrium, and BiBimBop record labels. He holds degrees from the University of Michigan, the Peabody Conservatory, and the University of Massachusetts and currently resides in the lush, rolling asphalt slopes of Bolton Hill in Baltimore, where he serves on the faculty of the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
DUBBLE8 (turntables & laptop)
A renegade Doctor of Music from Harvard University, DJ Dubble8 (a.k.a. Erik Spangler) is a composer and turntablist whose hybrid soundscapes thrive on a unique blend of experimental and popular influences. Samples from old vinyl records, programmed drum patterns, newly composed acoustic layers, and synthetic sound elements are all subject to live time-bending through digital turntable manipulation. Dubble8's acoustic compositions have been performed across the United States and Canada, by ensembles including the Atlantic Brass Quintet, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, International Contemporary Ensemble, Callithumpian Consort, and the yesaroun' duo. A committed teacher, Dubble8 has served on the faculty of institutions ranging from Ithaca College to Oasis Middle School (Cape Coral, FL). He currently teaches music at Maryland Academy of Technology and Health Sciences (charter high school in Baltimore, MD).