It was around about 2005 when I was first introduced to the fantastic music of Mulatu Astatke, I had watched a film which had featured a couple of his songs in the soundtrack and was instantly hooked. Best known as the father of Ethio-jazz, this Ethiopian musician and arranger opened my eyes to a whole new world of music.
Also inspired by the work of Mulatu Astatke comes a band called The Sorcerers whose sound incorporates the musical influences of Ethio Jazz alongside the soundtracks of European horror films of the 60’s and 70’s. Signed to Leeds based ATA Records, The Sorcerers were formed by guitarist Pete Williams and bassist Neil Innes and soon joined by drummer Joost Hendrickx, Pianist Johnny Richards and multiple-instrumentalist Richard Ormrod.
The band had initially came together to write and produce some Ethio inspired music which was only intended for release as a 7″ single but after attracting such a popular response they decided to develop the sound further and went on to release a self titled, full length debut record. Taken from this album comes the single ‘Cave Of Brahma’ which is a heavily Mulatu influenced track; its funky, its spooky and classically authentic.
“Who’s this? The Sorcerers? It’s cool! This is great. Give me the cd man!” – Mulatu Astatke
Released on 10th August via ATA Records their debut album can be purchased from here
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