Gojo
121234.records (53 mins)
For 14 years, the Fendika ensemble have represented the Addis Ababa azmaribet (traditional Ethiopian music-house) of the same name, serving as its house band, touring internationally and collaborating with experimental collectives such as the Ex and Large Unit. And they’re collaborating again, this time with members of Swiss-based Trio Kazanchis (here renamed K-Sanchis) led by saxophonist Jeroen Visser. The concept is less experimental this time, though, with the intent to channel the spirit of classic Ethio-jazz using mostly traditional instruments in addition to a small horn section.
The arrangements are clean if not particularly earth-shattering, but this album really shines in its frequent solos: instead of short spotlights, the solos here are long, giving the improviser time and space to create and develop ideas into narrative shapes over the rolling accompaniment. There are many great solos throughout Gojo, but the standouts come from Habtamu Yeshambel and his electric masenqo (one-string fiddle) who always brings the heat, whether in a smoulder or in fireworks. Highlights also come where the influences lean slightly further afield – the track ‘Adage’ has a jump blues feel; ‘Restraint’ takes cues from Afrobeat.
While this project isn’t the most original in its scope, the quality of the musicians ensures a playful, classy and enjoyable album.