Every few years, interest flourishes for an artists who international-recognition only dented American consciousness. It was the re-issued catalogs of Fela Kuti and Serge Gainsbourg which ignited curiosity and culminated in new appreciation. Now, we see Ethiopian bandleader, arranger, keyboard and vibraphonist Mulatu Astatke obtaining the career retrospective he deserves. From New York To Addis Ababa showcases Astatke development as he melded Ethiopian traditional melodies to Western jazz orchestration, and the unique sound he pioneered. Really, where else do you hear such an astonishing and unique range of sound from one individual? The steel drum on "Asiyo Belema" recalls the latin-jazz of Tito Puente, while the sentimental saxophone on ballad "Tezeta" would bring a tear to Ben Webster's eye. "Ebo Lala" returns you to Addis Ababa with scintillating poly-rhythms and African vocals. Consider "Yegelle Tezeta" his hit: punctuated with a steamy sax runs, an exotica-grooved organ and tight, crisp drum beat, its the amalgamation of all his influences tuned perfectly.
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