To some, the term "Ethiopian " might seem impossible; after all, it's a very American form. But what's truly surprising isn't the fact that these musicians play so well, but the range of they manage, from the -ish guitar workout of to the twisting sax of Really, though, it's more than in its aim (although is on the cover, on stage with , the bandleader behind all these selections). The grooves often smoke rather than swing, with some fiery drumming, most notably on and throughout the guitar is very much to the fore as a rhythm instrument. Perhaps the most interesting cut, however, is from 1974, which is 's tribute to the burgeoning revolution which would oust Emperor . Some of these pieces, certainly has seen U.S. release before; the track appeared in 1972 on , which was 's third American LP, showing that aficionados, at least, had an appreciation for what he was achieving in the horn of Africa. Given that many of his musicians had graduated from police and military bands, they knew their instruments well, and had plenty of practice time, which shows in the often inventive solos that dot the tracks. Varied, occasionally lyrical, but interesting throughout, this shines a fabulous spotlight on a hidden corner of . ~ Chris Nickson