Playlist: Daniel Olaifa

What’s the best music video you’ve seen recently and why?

The wondrous algorithms of YouTube brought Yvnnis - GARE DU NORD to my attention, and I remember sharing it almost immediately with some of my colleagues who are into music videos.

I was struck by the visual aesthetic of the film and the clever use of edit cuts. The pacing and transitions throughout added depth, so even though the song’s in French, there was still much to enjoy.

What’s the first music video you remember being impressed by?

Michael Jackson - Billie Jean.  I have such a vivid memory of this video but the sense of magic I felt in my youth comes to mind, seeing the glowing steps as he danced across them. That blend of music, movement, and visual effects was unforgettable, to this day.

And what’s your all-time favourite music video?

C. Tangana - Tiny Desk (Home) Concert.

Not sure if it counts, but I love Tiny Desks, I can’t stop thinking about this one, the work truly speaks for itself.

What other directors/artists do you look to for inspiration?

Dijon is definitely someone I admire. The Dijon - Absolutely film directed by Jack Karaszewski is such a strong collaboration. The album is incredible, the film perfectly matches up and I love the live, raw aesthetic they’ve brought to the visual work. There’s something so honest and immersive about it.

What are you listening to at the moment?

Lately, I’ve been enjoying Mk.gee’s recent album, it’s so good. There’s so many tracks I love, but my top two are How Many Miles and Are You Looking Up.

Jade Bird’s recent EP has also been on repeat, there’s a track on there called Burn The Hard Drive which has been my go to as well, and I’ve found myself diving back into Billie Marten's discography. Her sound has such a timeless feel.

When I’m not here at BBH, I also work as a musician so I’ve just returned from tour with Biig Piig. We had the opportunity to support AURORA during the US/Canada leg of her What Happened To The World Tour and I couldn’t get enough of her music. Perhaps the best part was getting to watch her performance night after night. Churchyard is one of my favourites, there’s a moment when the drums shift from a bouncing rhythm to a driving four-on-the-floor kick pattern, completely changing the momentum of the music. Seeing it live was beautiful, but the studio track still captures that same energy.

What’s your favourite bit of tech, whether for professional or personal use?

Right now, my favourite piece of tech is probably just my MacBook, it’s just got everything I need. However, I have been eyeing something up from Teenage Engineering, a little more on the music front, specifically the OP–133 K.O. II. (above) It’s an all-in-one sampler, drum machine, and sequencer.

What artist(s) would you most like to work with and why?

My aspirations have shifted a bit recently, as I’ve been exploring sound arts, a less conventional direction compared to my previous creative focus. Artists like Meredith Monk and David Byrne have been cool discoveries I’ve found during my research and deep dives.

David Byrne facilitated an installation at the Roundhouse many years ago, featuring a pipe organ attached to the inner framework of the building to bring to life an unconventional sound of music. It got me reflecting on some of my earlier passions of architecture and experimental music, and how those interests might intersect.