After the success of the Netherlands’ band The Ex’s collaboration with Getatchew Mekuria, Terrie Hessel, the band’s guitarist, has issued two very different projects on his label, Terp Records. One is a compilation of cassette recordings by the azmari (traditional Ethiopian singer) Bahru Kegne, and the other is a new album recorded in the Netherlands by Kegne’s musical associate, masenqo (bowed lute) player Chalachew Ashenafi.

Whilst there’s a nostalgic feel to the muffled mid-range of the cassette recordings on the first album, it’s a shame that Kegne’s talents are slightly shrouded by the sonic limitations. That said, there’s a woozy, pleasing sheen to tracks such as ‘Mela Mela’, lulling the listener with its hypnotic air, and ‘Sela Beyligne’, which really exemplifies the singer’s talents. It’s certainly a worthy work of historical documentation, but this is also an accessible compilation that will deservedly further our knowledge of Ethiopia’s music and traditions. Chalachew’s album serves as a posthumous reminder of the musician’s talents – he passed away due to health complications aged only 45. Whilst this music is best heard in an azmari bet (the local drinking hole), this recording faithfully captures the singer at his fiery best, backed by the Ilita band who have performed throughout Europe. Whether on the heavy ‘Medina’, where the singer matches the plaintive wail of the masenqo or the tough ‘Memeyew’, accompanied by bubbling krar lute and kebero drums, this album is a celebration of another keeper of the country’s musical flame.