Music We Love: Yussef Dayes
Taking a mini break from the music for some reading? You may want to start with a this snippet from Yussef Dayes’s about on Spotify:
The UK’s most innovative young Drummer and producer, Yussef Dayes, has gained notoriety on the international stage as a pioneer of his field. Though largely considered a “jazz” drummer, Dayes pushes beyond genre restrictions melding together everything from 70s funk to Senegalese percussion to UK grime.
Yussef Dayes is by far, one of the best musicians around today! We were double blessed with 2 incredible albums in 2020: What Kinda Music and Welcome to the Hills.
Dayes elevates the drums to another level, beyond just the rhythm section. Now dear readers please do not misinterpret what I’m saying here. As a bassist, I have nothing but the deepest respect and kinship with fellow members of the section of rhythm. What I mean is that Dayes not only builds an epic foundation for which the rest of these pieces stand, but then carves one of a kind works of art on top. Perhaps that’s too flowery and poetic and ridiculous of a metaphor. Maybe I should just be straight forward. Here … Yussef Dayes is a fucking amazing drummer and these albums are absolutely incredible.
Dayes makes his drums sing. They never play second best in song, yet never take over when it’s another musicians turn. And speaking of other musicians … The best work with the best!
The dual artist album with Tom Misch and Yussef Dayes, What Kinda Music, has it all! Not to mention collaborations with other musical giants, Freddie Gibbs, Rocco Palladino, and Kaidi Akinnibi. While the whole album is absolutely worth listening to on repeat here’s some favorites to get you in the mood.
The pair seamlessly blend Misch’s funky and oh so smooth melodies with Dayes hard hitting, yet subtly beautiful and unique rhythms. You can truly get lost listening and will be doing yourself a favor keeping this album on repeat.
Welcome to the Hills takes everything that is amazing about Dayes’s drums and turns it up to 11. Dayes brings together Rocco Palladino and Charlie Stacey for a rollercoaster live experience. The album is raw and playful and everything great about music!
They cover so many genres with ease. In one moment they’re going hard and funky and the next you’re listening to Psychedelic Jazz. There’s truly something about a Yussef Dayes drum track and those who know, know!
Check out some favorite tunes from this album:
Above all there is this masterpiece! I go back to this one an unhealthy amount of times. It’s truly a perfect example of what is possible when you bring together masters.
At the end of the day, I say listen to what makes you happy … This song makes me happy and I hope it brings you some joy as well!
