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"Black Classical Music" is the debut solo studio album by multi-instrumentalist Yussef Dayes, a renowned producer, composer, and drummer from South London. His work brings an electrifying blend of technical skills and emotional depth. Across this landmark LP, Dayes also aims to show the power of rhythm in channelling spiritual energy.

Dayes has been a lifelong student of the drums, performing with his brothers and Wayne Francis, the future founder of London's Steam Down artist collective, even before his teenage years. He also established his reputation through successful duo collaborations with pianist Kamaal Williams (under the name Yussef Kamaal) and guitarist/singer Tom Misch.

"Black Classical Music" presents contemporary jazz as a constantly evolving sound, not limited to easily defined genre classifications. There are touches of post-rock, dub, ambient, modern R&B, and orchestral arrangements across the record. The influence of electronic music is there too in Daye's intricate drumming patterns.

For this project, Dayes has emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge across generations. These values are embedded in the sample of his young daughter's voice and the album's exploration of cultural lineage and history.

The 19 tracks are largely anchored by Dayes' hallmark drum beats and Rocco Palladino’s sturdy basslines. Their sound is enriched by the exceptional contributions of Charlie Stacey on keys/synths, Venna with their saxophone, Alexander Bourt's percussion, and features from a striking cast of luminaries: Chronixx, Masego, Jamilah Barry, Tom Misch, Elijah Fox, Shabaka Hutchings, Miles James, Sheila Maurice Grey, Nathaniel Cross, Theon Cross, and the Chineke! Orchestra.

"Black Classical Music" stands as an education and a celebration. weaving disparate sounds and stories into a singular artistic vision.

For the chance to win a vinyl copy of this week's Album Of The Week, Triple R subscribers can enter here before Sunday September 24th 2023. We have a prize policy of 1 album per subscriber per month so we can share the love and make it fair for all!