Éthiopiques, Vol. 14: Negus of Ethiopian Sax - Getatchew Mekurya

Getatchew Mekurya adapted the ancient vocal tradition of shellela: a ferocious warrior chant used by Ethiopian soldiers preparing for battle: into a blistering, free-jazz saxophone language. Recorded in 1972 with the Police Orchestra, Mekurya's raw, guttural overtones and wild microtonal shrieks predated European avant-garde movements while remaining rooted in imperial musical heritage. It stands as one of the most singular and uncompromising saxophone statements in recorded history.