Addis Acoustic Project - Live

Comprised of Addis Ababa's greatest acoustic musicians, the Addis Acoustic Project, formerly of Addis Acoustic Renaissance Group, brings forth Ethiopia's popular tunes from the 1950's and 1960's in a new light. Ethiopia's pop music of this era predominantly featured acoustic instruments such as the mandolin, accordion, clarinet, and double bass, played alongside traditional instruments such as the Kirar, Kebero, Washint and Massinko.

Directed and arranged by guitarist Girum Mezmur, the Addis Acoustic Renaissance Group unfolds Ethiopian music from the past in a modern and jazzy way.

The band, composed of veteran musicians such as Ayele Mamo (Mandolin), Shaleka Melaku Tegegn (Accordion) as well as contemporary musicians such as Girum Mezmur (Guitar/Arrangement), Henock Temesgen (Double Bass), Natnael Tessema (Drums/Percussions), Dawit Firew (Clarinet), and Mesale Legesse (Kebero/Percussions), produces unique sounds dear to most Ethiopians and that undoubtedly appeal to a greater world music audience.

An updated brand of old-school Ethiopian jazz that irritates, insinuates, then ultimately seduces with snaking clarinet, itchy mandolin and jaunty accordion doing most of the best come-hither work.