a vision unfolding is inspired by the South African (Zulu) a cappella genre isicathamiya, which uses a higher-pitched lead voice over multi-part bass harmonies and call and response phrases. The beginning and near end of a vision unfolding includes a drone and outlining of the modal content of the piece. These sections are inspired by the improvised alapmusical form that often introduces classical Hindustani (North Indian) music. a vision unfolding also uses repeating compound meters often heard in traditional Eastern European music, rhythmic patterns from traditional Ewe music from the Volta region of Ghana, and the tight relationship between linguistics and rhythm found in spoken word poetry.