When a song as phenomenal as "Cavalier" comes out, it is automatically implied that there will be a multitude of remixes immediately in the works. The 1975 have already graced our ears with a fanciful rework, and now it's Seattle producer Budo's turn to present his interpretation. A ballad as delicate as "Cavalier" must be handled with extreme care, but Budo doesn't need to be reminded of this; not when's he busy layering crisp and upbeat percussion over the original while allowing the chronology of the piece to remain fairly untouched. Budo strips the kit away, but slides in a distorted, mournful sound which complements McMorrow cry, "I remember my first love". The piece suddenly acquires a wavy feel with complex layers of synths and percussion contributing a new flare to the ballad; the trumpet builds up and prepares you for the familiar climax, but no, Budo pulls it away, leaving you somewhat empty, but definitely astounded. A ticking sound fills the void of silence, which then culminates into a percussion-fueled wonder of a work.
James Vincent McMorrow