Ethiopiques, Vol. 4: Ethio Jazz & Musique Instrumental 1969-1974 CD - Import

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.
To some, the term "Ethiopian jazz" might seem impossible; after all, it's a very American form. But what's truly surprising isn't the fact that these musicians play jazz so well, but the range of jazz they manage, from the George Benson-ish guitar workout of "Munaye" to the twisting sax of "Tezeta." Really, though, it's more Jimmy Smith than Duke Ellington in its aim (although Ellington is on the cover, on stage with Mulatu Astatke, the bandleader behind all these selections). The grooves often smoke rather than swing, with some fiery drumming, most notably on "Yekermo Sew," and throughout the guitar is very much to the fore as a rhythm instrument. Perhaps the most interesting cut, however, is "Yekatit," from 1974, which is Astatke's tribute to the burgeoning revolution which would oust Emperor Haile Sellassie. Some of these pieces, certainly "Dewel," has seen U.S. release before; the track appeared in 1972 on Mulatu of Ethiopia, which was Astatke's third American LP, showing that jazz aficionados, at least, had an appreciation for what he was achieving in the horn of Africa. Given that many of his musicians had graduated from police and military bands, they knew their instruments well, and had plenty of practice time, which shows in the often inventive solos that dot the tracks. Varied, occasionally lyrical, but interesting throughout, this shines a fabulous spotlight on a hidden corner of jazz. ~ Chris Nickson
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.