Hailu Mergia: A Triumph of Ethiopian Jazz
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For over a decade, Hailu Mergia has been making waves on the international music scene, redefining the boundaries of Ethiopian jazz with his captivating performances and boundary-pushing compositions. Following a hiatus spent driving a cab in Washington, DC, Mergia returned to the stage with a renewed vigor, captivating audiences around the world with his unique blend of tradition and innovation.
At the heart of Mergia’s resurgence is his powerful trio, featuring Kenneth Joseph on drums and Alemseged Kebede on bass. Practicing diligently in his basement each weekend, the trio honed their craft, culminating in a fiery live performance at the renowned Brooklyn cultural center Pioneer Works in 2016. Recorded and mixed with precision by industry experts, the concert captured the raw energy and virtuosity of Mergia and his bandmates.
Throughout the performance, Mergia and his veteran band skillfully navigate a spectrum of Ethiopian repertoire, infusing each piece with layers of harmonic and rhythmic complexity. From age-old melodies like “Tizita” to original compositions such as “Yegle Nesh,” the trio breathes new life into classic standards, demonstrating their unparalleled improvisational prowess.
Despite his age of 77, Mergia shows no signs of slowing down, seamlessly transitioning between keyboard, organ, accordion, and melodica with remarkable dexterity. His dedication to his craft is evident in every note, as he pushes the boundaries of his remarkable abilities night after night on stages across the globe.
With the release of “Pioneer Works Swing (Live),” Mergia invites listeners to experience the magic of his live performances firsthand. From onstage improvisation to breathtaking solo passages, the album captures the essence of Mergia’s musical journey, showcasing his unwavering commitment to excellence.
As Mergia continues to tour and record, he proves that he is much more than a relic of the past, but rather a living legend whose music transcends time and borders. With each new release, he reaffirms his status as one of the preeminent figures in Ethiopian jazz, leaving an indelible mark on the global music landscape.
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