Customer Reviews

Moa Anbessa [RARE]

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It is an absolute crime this album isn't more available. It's absolutely incredible!

Background: The Ex heard Getachew on a re-issue disc of Ethiopian music and loved his sound. So for their 25th anniversary concert, they contacted him to see if he would participate. Getachew, though in his 70's agreed without hesitation to come from Ethiopia to Holland. From there, the collaboration resulted in this album which is a mix of studio and live tracks.

I saw this group at Lincoln Center Outdoors in NYC and it was a very mixed crowd. There were obviously people from two distinct camps - those that love Ethiopian and "world" (as stupid as that term is) music and those that hail from a punk/alternative camp. But when the group played, everyone responded immediately in their own way. For good reason - it's a surprisingly successful blend of styles.

Most of the melodies are Getachew's with some help from The Ex. But The Ex (with guests) bring a VERY European punk/avant-jazz sensibility to the table and prove themselves equals in the bargain. The melodies are at once stomping, blusterly, joyous, wistful, searching, and triumphant. They are buoyed by a group that is clearly inspired and respectful of working with such a legend. You get the sense that no one wants to own the spotlight and that the song is real master. Every song has such a rollicking, propulsive feel to it, they are incredibly memorable.

I feel lucky to have seen them live. We are all lucky to have this record of their incredible collaboration.