Renowned trumpeter, music producer and arranger Bruce Cassidy returns to South Africa with the one-of-a-kind Anti-Gravity Machine concert. Cassidy’s amalgam of Western and African music, performed with 15-piece string, woodwind, brass, and jazz rhythm group will bring jazz alive for one night only, on Saturday, 19 November 2016, at The Bassline in Newtown.

Musical director of Blood Sweat and Tears, Cassidy describes the Anti-Gravity Machine concert as an uplifting experience of heartfelt performances. With musicians of the highest caliber and a repertoire of original composed work, popular jazz and South African music, the concert promises a musical journey that echoes his influences, inspirations and world travels.

Cassidy spent a number of years in South Africa and much of the music was curated here, the pieces he is arranging for the performance reflect his love of the country and appreciation of his time here.

“I consider that in my own small way I am an ambassador for African music and the parts of the culture that have touched me. No one who spends any time in Africa can fail to be affected by its people’s elemental earthiness, generosity and passion,” says Cassidy, who lived in South Africa for 23 years and worked with South African jazz greats like Barney Rachabane, Pops Mohamed and Sibongile Khumalo.

The group is a diverse mix of virtuoso musicians, happy in disposition, and passionate about their performance. Cassidy is arranging the music to suit their style ensuring their musical pleasure is passed forward to the audiences.