There is something about the combination of a rainy night within a bustling city and jazz that can’t quite be explained. The bright lights of a metropolis engulfed with drizzle paired with a warm and crowded room of eager listeners laser focussed on the musicianship displayed on stage. On the 5th of June 2022 170 Russell was blessed with witnessing UK based drummer Yussef Dayes perform an incredible set with his band.
Standing in a line out the front of a venue is something I have not experienced in a while. Upon arriving at the 170 Russell at the time of opening I found myself having to pass a long stream of fans to get into the queue. Walking a block over behind the venue to secure my position I could see the enthusiasm displayed by all those waiting. The rain did not matter, the assortment of coloured beanies and corduroy slacks getting wet was not of importance. The only feeling present was that of excitement of being an hour away from seeing world class musicians perform in our city.
There was a level of attentiveness from the crowd that is not present for a lot of shows. Every slight time change, drum fill or synth pre-set was met with a reaction from the crowd. Whether it be a cheer or laughter at the band’s communication and playfulness from their interactions during their improv sections. As Yussef exclaimed in between songs he prefers to ‘play freely’, this was evident in not only the approach to his live set but also through the environment he cultivated during his set. The give and take from the crowd’s reactions and dancing was as free flowing as his improvising. The barrier at the front of the stage seemed non-existent. It felt like less of a gig at a venue and more like sitting back in a lounge watching these incredible artists express themselves in a very pure and interactive way.
The set included some of Yussef’s fan favourites like For My Ladies and a beautiful rendition of tidal wave from his Tom Misch Collaboration album What Kinda Music. However, the real highlights came from the ability all four musicians had during their own improvised sections. Bass player extraordinaire Rocco Paladino’s bass solo was mind-blowing and even had his bandmates in awe. The big reveal came at the end of the set as Yussef stated that a lot of the tracks they played that weren’t recognized by the crowd were to be expected in a new upcoming album. In terms of building up hype and traction for a new release this live show did it better than any marketing campaign ever could.
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