Released in 1972 on the eve of the release of Mulatu’s masterpiece “Ethio-Jazz,” this classic compilation was released by Ethiopian label Amha Records. It’s also known as one of the most sought-after Afro-rare groove releases ever!

After studying jazz in the West, Mulatu returned to Ethiopia and the new wave of Ethio-jazz emerged on the country’s music scene. This ambitious album compiles the modern Ethiopian sound from 1969-1972, aiming to popularize what was considered a groundbreaking sound at the time. However, most of the content is actually composed of tracks credited to Mulatu and arrangements by Mulatu himself. It’s no exaggeration to call it essentially a “Mulatu album.” The fusion of Latin jazz, which was a major influence on Mulatu’s time in the United States, with the indigenous Ethiopian Afro-American sound, creates a unique exoticism, rustic flavor, and smoky blackness that is hard to describe!

A1. Mulatu Astatke – Munaye
A2. Mulatu Astatke – Meche Dereshe
A3. Tesfa Mariam Kidane – Yetesfa Tezeta
A4. Mulatu Astatke – Kasalefkut Hulu
A5. Mulatu Astatke – Tezeta
B1. Bahta G. Hiwot – Ewnet Yey Lagegnesh
B2. Mulatu Astatke – Yegele Tezeta
B3. Bahta G. Hiwot – Bemegnot Alnorm
B4. Mulatu Astatke – Yekrmo Saw
B5. Tesfa Mariam Kidane – Heiwote