Black Classical Music spins a 19-track drum odyssey for the bold

A genre-blurring debut that’s rich in rhythm but comes with vinyl quirks

Yussef Dayes’ Black Classical Music jumps straight into the deep end with a nineteen-track double album that blends jazz, reggae, classical touches, and electronic flavors. It’s a dense listen, with a lot going on—drums and bass form the backbone while horns, synths, and strings fill the spaces. But heads up: this isn’t for easy listening or gentle background noise. The vinyl pressing, in particular, brings a few headaches worth noting.

Drums and bass take center stage

Dayes’ drumming is front and center throughout, locked in tight with Rocco Palladino’s bass. Their interplay forms a solid groove driving this album from opener to closer. Tracks like “Scorpio Rising” lay down spacious, hypnotic rhythms that keep things interesting without feeling cluttered. Around track 12, the Chineke! Orchestra adds sweeping strings and brass, which give a cinematic heft to the mix, though sometimes at the expense of the album’s momentum.

The keys and synths often add a warm or staccato layer on top, and Venna’s saxophone cuts through with smoky tones, while percussion helps keep things moving. The musicianship is tight, but far from sterile—there’s a live feel beneath the careful arrangements.

Guests and moments that stand out

Fourteen guest artists appear across the 19 tracks, including Chronixx, Masego, Tom Misch, Shabaka Hutchings, and more. Chronixx introduces a laid-back reggae vibe on “The Way In,” which contrasts nicely with Masego’s smooth sax and vocal work on “Black Classical Music.” Tom Misch’s touch is gentle and melodic, providing a welcome softness amid the driving rhythms.

The vocals range from breathy and intimate to bold brass calls, keeping the album from settling into any one mood for too long. Just when the album starts to feel busy, the orchestra’s presence around “Fear Not” steps in to add grandeur, though those sections can slow the pacing.

The pressing’s heavy hand

Here’s the raw deal: the vinyl itself is pressed hot. Levels are pushed hard, squeezing dynamics and making the midrange sometimes sound squashed. Drum rolls, for example, lose their airiness and feel boxy or flat rather than vibrant. Delicate piano notes and cymbal rings get swallowed up in the process. This pressing suits listeners who want that upfront loudness, but it will frustrate anyone chasing nuance or dynamic breath.

If you’re after clarity and room to breathe in the mix, the digital version alleviates some of these issues. The vinyl’s compression is just too heavy-handed to deliver the subtle textures that the music otherwise offers. It’s a trade-off to be aware of before you buy.

Four sides, a lot of flipping

Spread across two discs and four sides, the album demands some wardrobery for your patience. Sides A and B hold eight tracks that cascade nicely, while Side C brings in guests before the orchestra’s big push, and Side D wraps up with deep, instrumental cuts. If you’re the kind to put on a record and relax through, be prepared to get up often to switch sides.

Packaging is straightforward—sturdy sleeves, simple cover art, no lyric sheets, no artist notes, and no download voucher. Minimalism fans will appreciate the no-frills approach; others looking for extras or background might find it lean.

Who this album fits—and who it doesn’t

If you thrive on complex rhythms and aren’t bothered by heavy vinyl compression, this is a compelling listen. Drummers, DJs, and fans of polyrhythmic jazz-fusion will find plenty to admire. The guest appearances add spark, with the orchestra providing unexpected cinematic flair.

However, if you need a pressing that respects dynamic range or want a seamless listening experience with modest interruptions, this vinyl might frustrate you. Audiophiles who prize subtle mastering should lean digital or hold out for a more carefully balanced reissue. This album makes a bold statement in style and ambition but comes with its share of compromises, especially on vinyl.