Phil Dawson‘s latest release, “Ilé (Iyesa),” from his forthcoming album Don’t Waste Your Ancestors’ Time, drops on the 29th of November via Funkiwala Records. The song draws deep inspiration from the spiritual and rhythmic essences of Afro-Brazilian culture, reminiscent of Airto Moreira’s experimental sounds from the 1970s.

The song showcases the engaging vocal harmonies of Dele Sosimi and Biola Dosunmu, intertwining Yoruba lyrics with the melody. The sound is further enriched by British flautist Rowland Sutherland, whose flute lines blend flawlessly with the solid Brazilian rhythms provided by drummer Marius Rodrigues and bassist Matheus Nova, complemented by London-based Italian percussionist Maurizio Ravalico.

Phil Dawson’s skilled guitar work integrates with contributions from a prominent horn section, including Nick Walters, Justin Thurgur, and Tamar Collocutor, deepening the track’s rhythmic complexity.

“Ilé (Iyesa)” merges Nigerian and Brazilian sounds, presenting a narrative that uses the cultivation of yams and plantains as metaphors for diligence and youthful vitality.

You can listen to the single and pre-order the album HERE