Mulatu Steps Ahead

by Mulatu Astatke

I really like Mulatu Astatke.  I thought his earlier compilation cd was brilliant, and I really like this recent release of all new material. 

This is a much more Westernized form of jazz through much of the album, but the Ethiopian influence is never far below the surface, coming to the fore on some pieces, such as 'I Faram Gami I Faram' or other tracks that feature vocals.

As usual, I know next to nothing about jazz beyond being able to identify what I like, and I know that I really like this album.  Highly recommended.