These two latest releases from Buda are in some respects polar opposites, though connected by a common theme. One is an archival collection, another an attempt to rephrase the same material in a modern context, both focusing on the musical talents on Kassa Tessema. He was a key singer in pre-Derg-rule Ethiopia and was part of the Imperial Body Guard from the age of 17. ‘Mastawesha’ captures his plaintive delivery, accompanied by sparse krar (harp) playing, his voice to the front of the mix to ensure focus on his vocal and lyrical dexterity. It's a deeper outing than previous volumes, and the traditional ‘Tezeta’ and ‘Antchi Hoy Lene’ contain a soulful simplicity. Mastered from old vinyl, the usage of what sounds like some kind of noise reduction technique interferes with the sonic clarity, which is a pity.

While Daniel Techane's project is undoubtedly a personal response and interpretation of what Tessema's music means to him, it is hampered overall by rather hackneyed electronics and production that lacks depth. The music beds, while well composed, merely seem to perfunctorily accompany Tessema's vocal, rather than taking it in any meaningful new direction or re-contextualise it. The closer ‘Sewasew’ displays a mournful and lush string arrangement that points to a direction that feels genuinely promising; it's a shame that this wasn’t explored further over the rest of the album.