Daao is an acclaimed Armenian musician known for his boundary-pushing compositions that blend diverse musical styles. With a unique fusion of European jazz elements and old-school electronic grooves, he captivates audiences with his distinctive soundscapes, drawing inspiration from his Armenian heritage and aiming to inspire unity, understanding, and collaboration through the power of music. As he unveils his new album ‘Home’, DMCWorld goes back to mine with Daao.
Roy Davis Jr – Gabriel
This track is particularly enjoyable after a less-than-stellar night and is most soothing as the sun begins to rise. It has accompanied several significant events in my life, now earning a spot on my nostalgia playlist. I recall a friend who listened to this extensively during the summer of 2020 or 2021. Its melody stuck with me, but I could only remember Roy Davis’s name, always forgetting “Gabriel.” I had to text my friend each time to recall the track’s name, which I never saved. I’m even considering remixing it one day.
Duke Pearson – Cristo Redentor
I’ve never been a morning person, but over time, I’ve discovered a love for early mornings. There’s something special about exiting a windowless club after a late-night gig to encounter fresh air, birdsong, and the solitary sunrise. Duke Pearson’s “Cristo Redentor” perfectly encapsulates this sensation.
A Tribe Called Quest – We Got The Jazz
I constantly jump from genre to genre. My musical style is heavily influenced by jazz and hip-hop, and “We Got the Jazz” is one composition that continually matures my craft. It’s a simple composition, but its timing and characteristics echo the groove around which my musical mind revolves. This track is my go-to whenever I feel lost, and it fits perfectly in the context of an after-party home listening playlist. It’s ideal to play while relaxing, engaging in enlightening conversations with loved ones, or even those not so dear.
Moussa Doumbia – Keleya
I’ve recently developed an interest in Afrobeat and the roots of funk music. A friend introduced me to this track, and I’ve since listened to it almost 300 times. Each playthrough invigorates me with the raw joy of free-form dancing. In the context of our current world, “Keleya” emits a vibe that I crave. It’s the perfect song to cook to at home after a long night.
Charles Aznavour – Je M’voyais Déjà
Charles Aznavour’s music holds a special place in my heart, having appeared in various shapes and forms throughout my life. His songs bring back childhood memories, creating a sense of belonging. In today’s complicated world filled with endless possibilities and information, this old piece of music takes me back to simpler, joyous times. It’s a great tune to watch the morning city chaos unfold.
Keith Mansfield – The Loving Touch
Have you ever felt everything going according to plan, leading to a feeling of accomplishment? I associate this feeling, often occurring in the morning, with “The Loving Touch.” It represents those periods in our lives when we manage to accomplish small or even big things, bringing about a sense of fulfillment. It complements a time of good food, dance, and partying. So, I wanted to share it as an excellent piece for home after-party listening.
Air – Mr. Man
I’m a huge fan of Jimi Hendrix. His music has led me to discover gems from his era. The band Air always takes me back to the romanticized times of 1970’s San Francisco, Woodstock, and psychedelic rock bands. The first high pitch of the song “Mr. Man” sends chills down my spine. It’s like a cup of coffee, perfect for unwinding at home after a long night.
Isaac Hayes – By The Time I Get To Phoenix
Listening to Isaac Hayes made me realize that I still have much to learn about expressing love. The first time I heard “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” was in Lisbon, a city that the song helped me better appreciate and understand. Although it’s an excellent accompaniment for slow, romantic nights, it’s also great for whenever you want your soul to feel “hot buttered.”
Penny Goodwin – Slow Hot Wind
There’s a unique satisfaction in discovering the original composition that inspired one of your favorite artists. In this case, I have Tyler, The Creator to thank for my discovery of “Slow Hot Wind.” Without hearing Tyler’s rendition, I would never have fully grasped the feeling Penny Goodwin aimed to convey.
September – Ostavi Trag
Born in Armenia, a post-Soviet country, I’ve noticed many shared aspects among the diverse cultures of the Soviet Union. Despite its darker aspects, whenever I encounter music from this era that resonates with me, it leaves a profound impact. September, a band formed during Soviet times in Yugoslavia, offers a pure representation of a simple form of love.
Daao ‘Home’ album is out now.
https://daao.bandcamp.com/album/home
