Phil Dawson ٤-tet with Dele Sosimi and Biola Dosunmu – Ilé (Iyesa) feat. Rowland Sutherland

Phil Dawson, a UK-based guitarist, composer, and bandleader known for his rich musical collaborations with legends like Hugh Masekela, Tony Allen, and Mulatu Astatke, is back with a new single that promises to blend the sounds of Nigeria, Brazil, and beyond. “Ilé (Iyesa),” the first release from his forthcoming album, is an exhilarating blend of Afrobeat and Brazilian rhythms, with Dawson continuing his tradition of combining diverse cultural influences.

Dawson, who has honed his craft over the years by working with musical icons from across Africa, brings a wealth of experience to this track. He is joined by Nigerian Afrobeat giant Dele Sosimi and multi-instrumentalist Biola Dosunmu, best known for his work with Estuary 21 and Fatai Rolling Dollar. Together, they lay the foundation for a collaboration that moves across continents and musical genres.

The track is driven by the powerful, hypnotic flute melodies of Rowland Sutherland, whose past work with the Jazz Warriors and Airto Moreira solidifies his place in the world of jazz and fusion. His playing on “Ilé (Iyesa)” intertwines beautifully with the rhythm section, which consists of Brazilian drummer Marius Rodrigues and bassist Matheus Nova. Both musicians bring their deep roots in Brazilian music—having worked with artists like Ed Motta and Antonio Forcione—to complement the Afrobeat underpinnings.

But “Ilé (Iyesa)” doesn’t stop at Brazilian and Nigerian influences. The track also features horns by Nick Walters, Justin Thurgur, and Tamar Collocutor, adding another layer of depth to an already rich soundscape. With percussionist Maurizio Ravalico (known for his work with Jamiroquai and Collocutor) rounding out the ensemble, the song is packed with rhythmic complexity and sonic exploration.

What makes “Ilé (Iyesa)” stand out is its fusion of Nigerian and Brazilian traditions, specifically the Ijexa rhythm, which is often associated with the Yoruba Orishas, Shango and Ogun. Dawson and his collaborators have chosen the Spanish spelling for the rhythm (Ijexa), reflecting its Afro-Brazilian lineage. This connection to the spiritual and cultural practices of both Nigeria and Brazil is echoed in the song’s lyrics, sung in Yoruba, which use agricultural metaphors like growing yam and plantain to offer philosophical wisdom on working hard in one’s youth to reap future rewards.

With its official release slated for 04 October 2024, “Ilé (Iyesa)” is more than just a musical collaboration—it’s a celebration of Afro-Brazilian heritage and a testament to the power of cross-cultural musical exploration. Phil Dawson’s ability to blend these elements with the help of world-class musicians like Dele Sosimi, Biola Dosunmu, and Rowland Sutherland results in a track that is both rooted in tradition and expansive in its global outlook.

For fans of Afrobeat, Brazilian rhythms, and jazz fusion, “Ilé (Iyesa)” promises to be a must-listen, offering a fresh yet timeless take on the ever-evolving sounds of the African diaspora.