Acclaimed drummer, producer, and visionary artist Yussef Dayes has announced a limited edition vinyl, Mount Fuji FM; a stunning live collection capturing the energy, spirituality, and improvisational mastery that defines Dayes’ sound. The project includes live performances of both pre-released favorites and brand-new compositions, punctuated with intimate commentary from Yussef and Gilles Peterson, offering listeners a rare behind-the-scenes journey into the creation of the music.
The gatefold vinyl comes pressed in marbled Shibazakura Pink, a vibrant shade inspired by the Japanese springtime flower known for its resemblance to “lawn cherry blossoms.” The artwork, created by celebrated artist Barka, complements the music’s organic beauty with intricate, hand-drawn textures and color.
Inside, a beautifully crafted booklet includes:
– Japanese & English interview transcriptions
– Live session photos & illustrations
– Thank yous from Yussef
Today, Dayes has released a new digital single: “Amami”, featuring the extraordinary Japanese vocalist Minami Kizuki from Amami Island. The collaboration was born in a moment of pure serendipity; the night before filming at Mount Fuji, Yussef expressed a desire to connect with a local Japanese musician, someone rooted in the islands’ sound and spirit. That connection led to Kizuki, whose ethereal musicianship brought an entirely new dimension to the music.
Yussef tells us; “she just came with her vibes, and we just tapped in. And it was literally that feeling of when you’re on edge and you’ve just got to be listening, you’ve got to be in the zone, regardless of the circumstances. And, yeah. It was this beautiful moment, and she really blessed us with the vibes.”
Mount Fuji FM is a sonic pilgrimage, a merging of cultures, rhythms, and stories, and stands as a testament to Yussef Dayes’ global musical vision.
