Ethiopiques, Vol. 3: Golden Years Of Modern Ethiopian Music

I got 3 of the 27 volumes to get an idea of available Ethiopian music. #1 and 3 are fine, but it is 4 that I love!

This CD exemplifies the artistic ingenuity of the Ethiopian people. Though the music is quite obviously very Westernized, employing electric guitars, drum kits, saxophones, and even muted trumpet solos, the music retains native Ethiopian elements, such as a propensity toward triple meter rhythms, strict adherence to a variety of pentatonic scales, and the use of the Amharic language. This music truly was the golden age of modern Ethiopian music. Many of these recordings were the last of their kind to be released before the oppressive and all too long-lasting Marxist regime of Mengistu Hailemariam came to power.This CD showcases some of the superstars of Ethiopian pop music - Muluqèn Mèllèssè, Alèmayèhu Eshèté, Tlahoun Gèssèssè, and Mahmoud Ahmed, just to name a few. The music ranges from the fun - 'Yèqondjowotch Mendèr', sung by Hirut Bèqèlè, with the groovy and bouncy Police Orchestra jamming on saxophones, trumpets, drums, and electric guitar. Hirut sings a happy melody about the 'village of the beauties,' where none are as handsome as her lover - to dramatic - 'Tènèsh kèlbé lay', where Muluqèn Mèlèsse begs for his heart to be left alone by the torments of love - to energetic - 'Kèlkeyelegn', sung by Tèfèri Fèllèqè, backed by the Army Band. The song starts with a funky 60's organ and brass over an undulating bassline, with bright electric guitars imparting an almost Kenyan sound - to sexy - 'Sèlam Almazeyé', Mahmoud Ahmed's famous song about his passionate love for the beautiful Almaz.I've only been listening to Ethiopian (and Eritrean) music for about a year so fare, but this is yet another jewel from the wonderful Ethiopiques series. I highly recommend it to anyone remotely interested in the music of this overlooked and misunderstood land.

This is actually the continuation of Volume 1, and just as good. With great performances by Muluqen Mellesse, Tilahun Gessesse, Bizunesh, Mahmoud Ahmad, Alemayehu Eshete etc - this is a must for people interested in Ethiopian music. Great sound quality, considering all recordings are from the early 70's.

Each track on this CD is a gem. Just when you think it can't possibly get any better, the next track is. It is hard music to describe... If you enjoy Om Kulsum you will be in a good position to start with this, although this is probably more broadly accessible than Om Kulsum. Some of it sounds almost like some older Indian and Japanese pop music. These people certainly listened to James Brown and you can hear Motown and central African influences, but an artist like Muluqen Mellesse takes these influences and makes something new and beautiful. Read the lyrics translated in the informative insert that comes with this CD. Everything about this collection is wonderful.

Wow, what a gem. A marvelous fusion of traditional Etheopian music and funk which works on every level.