Label: Mochilla
Catalog: MO 007LP

2022 repress; 2LP version. "Packaged in a beautiful, five-color gatefold jacket printed on brown chip board. Ethiopian Mulatu Astatke is a giant in African music. He is the inventor of Ethio-jazz. His work has inspired many imitations, many admirers and a whole new generation of fans. His music veers from the sublime tezetas to the most foot-stomping funk. The award-winning and invaluable Ethiopiques series has shed a light into a vital and amazing music scene that existed in the Addis Ababa in the '60s. The composer/arranger of that era was Mulatu Astatke. On February 1st he blessed the sold-ut Luckmann Theatre with an amazing show. He shared the stage with veterans of the Los Angeles jazz scene Bennie Maupin, Azar Lawrence and Phil Ranelin. The performance is beautiful, showcasing many classics as well as some new material. Nas, Damien Marley, Cut Chemist, Quantic, Madlib and K'naan all have felt the influence of Ethio-jazz. This special edition 2LP honors Mulatu and his music. Part one of a three-part series."