Music is a universal language that connects people from different walks of life, but the true magic happens when different musical styles and cultures blend in the art of musical fusion.
It is through this fusion that we witness remarkable results, as exemplified by YomiSax’s latest album, Expressions.
In today’s music landscape, genres are often defined by their cultural and demographic contexts, dictating how they are produced, marketed, and consumed.
For instance, Afrobeats is predominantly characterized by lively and rhythmic West African sounds, primarily targeting a younger audience or those young at heart. However, YomiSax breaks the mould by expanding the boundaries of Afrobeats through a fusion with jazz that caters to a more mature audience seeking a unique ambience created by rich harmonies and intricate rhythms.
With his latest EP, Expressions released on April 4, 2023, YomiSax pioneers a method to fuse the energy of Afrobeats with the sophistication of jazz. By doing so, he not only establishes himself as the ‘Sax Mathematician’ but also opens doors for other sax players catering to niche audiences, attracting new followers along the way.
Expression, the opening track of the EP, which spans 3 minutes and 51 seconds, gracefully begins with soft piano keys that set the stage for the lush and dreamy tones of YomiSax’s tenor saxophone. The introduction seamlessly transitions into a steady and melodic beat, reminiscent of the foundation of most Afrobeats tracks.
As the track progresses, the rhythm section enters, adding a serenading touch through the saxophone’s expressive notes. Though, instrumental, the saxophone replaces the traditional singer, evoking a range of emotions that captivate the listener.
To be sure, the fusion of jazz with other genres of music is not a novel concept. American tenor saxophonist, Kenny G toed that path in the ‘80s, delivering smash hits like Songbird, a top 5 hit on the highly competitive Billboard 100. Perhaps, Expression could be the start of a renaissance where instrumental music takes a place on the musical table with offerings that deviate from the already saturated Afrobeats market to top charts.
Admittedly, breaking into the mainstream music scene is a challenging endeavour. However, Expression stands out for its ingenuity in seamlessly blending musical elements, propelling instrumental jazz music into the consciousness of music consumers. This track serves as a testament to YomiSax’s vision and talent, leaving a lasting impression on listeners and paving the way for future innovation in the fusion of music genres.