Watch Daffo's Paste Session in New York

On a humid, overcast afternoon, Paste Studios’ “On the Road” settled in for a packed day of sessions at Ilegal Mezcal in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. It was a full day of music, laughter, and beverages, where we were lucky enough to hang with Gabi Gamberg (aka Daffo) and record an intimate acoustic set of new music, which, in my opinion, perfectly captured their talent.

When Daffo strolled into our recording space at Ilegal, they immediately came across as a very humble, friendly person. As they sat down and began strumming their guitar in preparation for the set, they noted that their usual instruments were out of commission–the guitar being played was a loaner from a friend, one they had not played before. We chatted briefly about their guitar experience and their songwriting process, and based on the modest way they carried themselves and described their ability, I had no way of predicting the way in which I was about to be floored.

Most Popular

They started the set off with a tune called “Sideways”, which they described as the focus track for their new record, Where the Earth Bends, which is out today. I was hooked immediately and was in disbelief that what I was hearing was an unreleased original, rather than some deeply revered Elliott Smith B-side. A major theme of the song is about the struggle to communicate true feelings and express what one truly means, but ironically, as the song progressed, it became clear that Daffo possesses a rare quality of honesty in their songwriting.

The set continued with a song called “Quick Fix”, also from the new record. It was a moody ballad defined by funky guitar tuning and a circular, entrancing melody. By the time they had finished their second song, it became clear to me that Daffo falls into my favorite category of songwriters—those whose lyrics are just as compelling as the chordal structure and melody. I’m constantly left reevaluating what element of these songs keeps me captivated—is it the chords, the strumming pattern, the melody, the lyrics? To me, this state of blissful indecision is one of the very best gifts one can hope to receive from a great song.

Daffo finished their set with a gritty tune called “Habit”, a song that to me seemed to describe the tempting, almost seductive pull that sadness can seem to have–a bad habit. I added Daffo’s music to my phone as soon as the set ended. In the current musical climate, where the world of indie and folk music can often feel oversaturated, Daffo stands out as an artist making something truly refreshing. Their sound nods to foundational indie/folk artists such as Mazzy Star and Nick Drake, yet still feels entirely its own. I feel lucky that I got to catch them this early in their career.

Thanks to the whole team at Ilegal Mezcal for helping this great day of music (and mezcal) happen.

Watch Daffo’s Paste Session in New York