In modern music the drum is the centerpiece, the heart. Chris “Daddy” Dave has spent years mastering his craft in studios and live gigs for a wide array of artists including Robert Glasper, Adele and D’angelo, quietly becoming one of the premier drummers of our time. Yet despite his legend-in-the-making status he has not released any material as a bandleader, until now.

The Texas-bred maestro just released his first ever mixtape, Chris Dave and The Drumhedz, which is meant to be a sampler plate of the wide range of styles Dave has amassed. Accompanying his snares, kicks and toms are The Drumhedz, a rotating cast of musicians Dave has formed strong organic connections with over the years. Pino Palladino’s legendary bass makes numerous appearances, as do Isaiah Sharkey and Tim …