alluminum EthioJazz is so good!

Kevin Bradshaw Like the best music ever. Favorite track: Yèkèrmo Sèw.

Amin Mesbah The album that first introduced me to the magical world of Ethio-Jazz. Every track is a treasure. Favorite track: Tezeta.

Chris Bestwick This is a wonderfully interesting and surprising collection of tunes, each one introducing new sonic elements. I love the blend of traditional sounds with the more unexpected textures.

Favourite track For Harley, for the reasons mentioned above, and also for fitting so well in its position in the tracklist: it's exactly what you want at that point. Favorite track: For Harley.

ctpak Dope record, but also awesome live. Saw them at Buteco and it was such a good vibe. Favorite track: OB Jumper.

WiLV I first heard these guys when I mixed a live show they did in London and I had to seek them out -- such raw energy and funk.

Lubey Lu I saw these guys live and their relentless energy blew me away. High-octane, psychedelic, poly-rhythmic Niger rock with so much groove.

SDHoneymonster Rock n' roll, Nigerien style. Trance-inducing, energetic, foot-stomping joyful noise. Favorite track: Claire.

therealaugustineesterhammerfic I can't fathom the level, the mind reels Favorite track: Entente.

Ryan Sarno Tal National's Tantabara is a superb third Fat Cat release from one of the world's best bands. Tantabara is largely in the same vein as Zoy Zoy and Kaani with a few additional textures - occasional keys, a fuzz (!) guitar solo, one track disintegrates into oscillating reverb. The impossibly precise ensemble playing, locked in 12/8 rhythms, and face melting vocal performances are all present.

Almeida is the guitar hero you need. Do whatever you can to see Tal National live. Favorite track: Entente.