Mulatu Astatke - Mulatu Plays Mulatu (2025)


Mulatu Plays Mulatu stands as both a reflection and renewal of Mulatu Astatke’s singular vision: he revisits foundational Ethio-jazz compositions with fresh arrangements that both honour the original grooves and open new vistas. The hypnotic rhythms and pentatonic melodies that first defined his work are present, yet re-imagined with clarity and space—each track feels like a conversation between past and present. The instrumentation shines: vibraphone, saxophone, Ethiopian traditional instruments, and modern jazz arrangements merge with elegant precision. Though the record draws from familiar territory, it never feels retread—the reworkings invite deeper listening and reveal subtle variations in rhythm, tone and mood. Ultimately, the album is a triumph: an artist looking back without being beholden, offering a mature, graceful statement that affirms his legacy while still sounding vibrant and alive.




Genre: Ethio-jazz
Country: Ethiopia

Final Verdict: 70% (Very Good Album)
Yearly Ranking: 64th / 716

Highlight: Zèlèsègna Dèwèl


Made me think of:
Mahmoud Ahmed
King Krule
Fela Kuti

#newalbum #newalbum2025 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery
#Ethio-jazz #MulatuAstatke #Ethiopia
#LP #Album #release

 

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