ZENA, the contemporary ethio-jazz duo from London comprised of producer, keyboardist and synth player Yohan Kebede and bassist/producer Menelik, have announced the forthcoming release of their debut EP ‘TEMESGEN’.
Set for release on March 20th via Brownswood Recordings on all digital platforms as well as vinyl, ‘TEMESGEN’ is a six-track aural odyssey that balances uncompromising experimentation with a deep sense of home, comfort, and exploration. In accordance with the duo’s mission, the project is seeking to redefine and reimagine Ethiopian music for a new generation.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the EP’s title, Yohan said: “‘TEMESGEN’ means “Thank God” in Amharic, and for me, I never heard my mother receive good news without saying it aloud. After the first couple gigs we did as ZENA, we saw how people reacted to our music and how it resonated with them. It spurred in us a feeling of overwhelming gratitude, after which the EP kind of named itself”.
Coinciding with the EP’s release, ZENA has unveiled ‘MY LOVE YOUR LOVE’ as the project’s lead single. Drawing from a rich blend of psychedelic funk, dub, R&B, jazz fusion, interwoven with the rhythmic and melodic language of Ethiopian Raya and Lasta music, ‘MY LOVE YOUR LOVE’ is slow-burning and fluid composition with a trance-like flow.
Listen here.
Pre-order the vinyl here.
