Gessesse, Tlahoun: Ethiopian Urban Modern Music Vol. 4 (Ethiopiques) LP

"A set of vocal recordings by Tlahoun Gessesse -- one of the most important singers during the golden age of Ethiopian Music -- caught here on a set of sides that sadly saw that period coming to an end. The tracks on the set are mostly from the early 70s, a time that saw great political changes in Ethiopia -- and tremendous censorship and restrictions on cultural production. Gessesse's vocals during this time are perhaps even more melancholy and heartfelt than before, and he's working here on a number of sides with the legendary Mulatu -- with arrangements that have a angular, almost modernist edge." Tip!