British-born Omani musician Zehy Al Dhabari is gaining international recognition as a drummer and percussionist with Yazatas, a jazz fusion band set to release its debut album in the UK by late this year or early next. Yazatas, led by vocalist Jezmond Farren alongside bassist Zak Dajani, offers a fresh take on contemporary jazz, blending rock and jazz influences in a style that recalls an era of intricate musical expression.
Zehy’s journey is supported by his family, especially his mother, Zawan Al Said - a prominent former broadcaster in Oman - and his father, Brigadier (Retd) Abdullah Al Dhabari. Zawan has been a steadfast advocate for her son’s musical aspirations. “Parental support isn’t common for aspiring musicians in Oman,” she notes. “But I encourage parents to immerse their children in music - take them to performances, enroll them in classes, and expose them to various organisations.”
Her commitment goes beyond encouragement. When Zehy was sixteen and too young to attend music clubs alone, she accompanied him to Ronnie Scott’s jazz club in London, where he met renowned drummer Mark Fletcher. “I remember approaching Mark and asking if he’d consider mentoring Zehy,” she recalls. “He agreed, and for four years, Zehy learned from one of the best.”
Sam Jesson, Zehy’s teacher at Portland School, also played a pivotal role in shaping his career as a jazz musician.
Additionally, with Fletcher’s guidance, Zehy honed his skills and furthered his jazz education. Zawan later arranged for him to attend the Julian Joseph Jazz Academy, a programme led by acclaimed jazz musician Julian Joseph. “This exposure was invaluable,” she reflects.
“It’s the small but significant opportunities that help young musicians thrive.” Zehy’s growth continued at West Thames College and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, where he deepened his expertise in music technology. “Studying at Trinity, surrounded by dedicated musicians and teachers, was incredibly inspiring,” Zehy shares. “It encouraged me to deepen my commitment to music.”
Yazatas’ formation was almost accidental. Zehy first met lead vocalist Jezmond Farren through a mutual connection. “Jezmond already had an album’s worth of music when we met,” Zehy recalls. “I approached his work with a jazz musician’s mindset, and together we created our own sound.” Adding Zak Dajani on bass completed the trio. Although Zehy didn’t choose the band’s name, he appreciates its meaning. “Jezmond told me it was about music connecting people, though I always found the name unique,” he says.
Their singles, already streaming on Spotify and Apple Music, have received positive feedback in both the UK and US. “Having our music appreciated in the US was an incredible feeling,” Zehy says. “The hard work we’ve put in makes this recognition deeply rewarding.” Yet, he is candid about the challenges emerging musicians face in London. “It’s tough - venues rarely advertise, and they take most of the ticket sales. But we keep pushing because we believe in what we’re creating.”
While Zehy’s music draws from Western influences, his Omani roots remain significant. His father’s military background instilled discipline, which Zehy credits as essential to his work. “Growing up with a military influence taught me resilience, something every musician needs,” he reflects. However, he emphasizes his mother’s support as the foundation of his journey. “Though my mother’s career in media didn’t influence my music directly, her encouragement has been invaluable.”
As Yazatas prepares for its album release and considers potential tours across Europe, Asia, and America, performing in Oman remains a special goal. “Performing in Oman would be a dream come true,” he shares.
For Zawan, witnessing her son’s success brings immense pride. “Social media has made the world kinder for musicians, but there’s still a lot of groundwork involved,” she says. “This exposure is crucial, and I couldn’t be prouder of all they’ve achieved.”
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