DAAY
Flight, truly unique
Here’s one of the more unique bands we’ve come across in the long time, DAAY, from South London. This alt-pop, alt-rock, psychedelic quartet has just dropped their sixth single, Flight, which continues to expand upon their sound. While diving through their earlier work we were reminded of bands like Eels, Death Cab for Cutie and Radiohead - but it changed with every song. It could be punky, funky, atmospheric or chaotic, depending on the track. We love bands like this - those that take risks with instrumentation and chord progressions, in a true expression of what song writing can be. Here’s our review of Flight.
It’s an all start from the band as a slow groove sits underneath a simple, floating and effective melody that sits nicely atop a bed of backgrounds, fluid bass line and picking guitar line. There’s a host of influences and images that come to light with just the first 26 seconds - hard to tell where it’s going, and we love it. Then comes a 4 bar section before the chorus that creates a clean break - like a bird changing direction in its flight - with an altered sax tone and wonderful bass riff that leads us into the chorus where we get a progression and tonal change. This section is more straightforward than the others - and it should be. Even here, the chord progressions and melodies (particularly on the back end) are not what you would expect. The genre’s expression in this section include pop, reggae, and rock, with a bit of experimentation as well. Again - this band is very different than what we typically hear and anytime we find something like this that is out of the ordinary, we’re thrilled.
Second verse expands upon the feel and intensity of the first, as does that 4 bar pre chorus, which is now extended into a bit of a jazz-like jam before we get to the second chorus. Pay attention to the vocal layering, the switch up to reggae, and then the heavy riffs that cap off the section. They’re able to make it all work smoothly and build on the mood of that second chorus to create the outro in more of an experimental feel.
The mix and production are exactly what you would expect from an experimental band like this. Not normal but highly effective. Sure, you’re going to hear some tones that are synonymous with today’s pop and rock, but for the most part you’re getting altered frequencies, compressions and effects that make art rock what it is - unique, compelling and honest. If you want a commercialized love song that is produced like a tuna sandwich, they’re easy to find. If you want to experience something new, something truly artistic, this song and band are a great example of that. Make sure you scroll down to check out they’re other work and if you’re in London - go check them out at a gig, we’re sure this is a great band to see live!
Music and lyrics by DAAY
Lead guit @nickwemyss808
Keys @melodywayfare
Bass @njbr.music
Drums @lowtotem
Produced and mixed by @lowtotem
Mastered by Oli Morgan
Artwork @alexbartyking