The Myth of the Golden Ratio

This London-based quartet is made up of the three brothers Yussef, Ahmad and Kareem Dayes (who play, respectively, drums, trombone and bass) and their close friend Wayne Francis II (vocals, keyboards and saxophone). They have released two albums previously, and this, their third, presents their sound fully developed. A combination of Éthiopiques-style horn lines, Afrobeat grooves, consummate drumming from Yussef (also known for his irrepressible jazz duo with multi-instrumentalist Henry Wu) and ethereal soundscapes that are often enchanting, this is a project with great potential. Unfortunately the record is marred throughout by tedious lyrical content and timid vocal delivery. The message behind lines such as ‘We are the 99%/Why are we ruled by 1%?’ is all very well, but it's akin to the dogmatic proclamations from street corners by end-of-days doomsayers. Tracks such are ‘Far Far Away II’ are great musically, but the lyrical aspect – although expressed with good intention – falls flat and unsettles the feel of the album. Nonetheless, the phenomenal musicianship on show makes it a worthwhile listen. The blistering playing from Yussef Dayes on ‘I Am We’ alone is worthy of attention and the closer ‘Golden’, which features some serene orchestration, finishes the album on a high note.