ETHIOPIQUES 4

The selections on ETHIOPIQUES VOL. 4 are taken from two previously released albums, ETHIOPIAN MODERN INSTRUMENTAL HITS and YEKATIT: ETHIO JAZZ. Personnel includes: Mulatu Astatke, Fekade Amde Meskel. The fourth in a series of compilations of early-to-present Ethiopian jazz, this release focuses on instrumentals. Heavily horn-based, the ensembles are sonically multi-faceted, including an almost psychedelic electric guitar and acoustic and electric bass, vibes, and piano. This volume focuses on the arrangers and composers of the late '60s and early '70s, highlighting both the Amha Records label and innovative bandleader Mulatu Astatke. The arrangements combine traditional jazz elements with Ethiopian folk tunes, creating a foreign yet pleasantly familiar feel. From the lilting saxophone of "Tezeta" (Nostalgia), to the jumping organ of "Yegelle Tezeta" (My Own Memory), each song carries its own story, relayed by many tempos. The most percussive, "Munaye" (My Muna), speaks with African beats accompanied by bongos and bell-like sounds accented with jazz guitar solos and well-timed horn bursts. Various stringed instruments provide a warmly personal feel. The cover photo, featuring Duke Ellington holding an African instrument as he jams with Mulatu Astatke, highlights the album's Ethiopian jazz sound.