Dive into the rich, vibrant world of Ethiopian jazz with Instrumental's latest album, "Sustenance - Violin Music from Canada," set to release on May 13, 2025, under the SPEKTRAL label. This captivating collection spans a full hour and thirteen minutes, offering a unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds that showcase the violin's versatility and expressive power.
The album opens with "Offering of Water," a five-part suite that explores themes of life, purification, and renewal. Each movement builds on the last, creating a profound and immersive experience. Following this is "The Interior Castle," a piece that delves into introspection and inner strength.
Instrumental's virtuosity shines in "FIRE-AND-ICE-BODIED-DOUBLED-UP-WITHDRAWAL-ANXIETY," a two-part composition that contrasts mellifluous melodies with agitated, possessed energy. The album also features playful and inventive works like "Foxy Fox’s Musical Games for Violin and Piano" and "Jack the Fiddler," showcasing the artist's dynamic range and technical prowess.
Cultural influences are evident in tracks like "Sari Aghtchig (Girl from the Mountain)" and "Country Food for Violin and Tape," which blend traditional motifs with modern experimentation. The album concludes with "Without Words" and "Tango Melancólico," offering a reflective and melancholic close to this diverse collection.
"Sustenance - Violin Music from Canada" is a testament to Instrumental's ability to merge different musical traditions and create something entirely new. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ethiopian jazz or a newcomer looking to explore, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.