Yohan Kebede, Kokoroko’s keyboardist and synth player has announced the launch of ZENA; a new duo formed in conjunction with British bassist and producer Menelik (Muva Of Earth, Bill Laurance).
Born out of a mutual love and respect for the music of their shared Ethiopian heritage, Yohan Kebede and Menelik through ZENA are seeking to redefine and reimagine Ethiopian music for a new generation. Building upon the roots and foundations laid by legendary Ethiopian musicians Haliu Mergia, Alemayehu Eshete and Mulatu Astatke, ZENA fuses the haunting spirituality and earthiness of the ethio-jazz tradition with a modernity, sensuality and sense of disruption that is distinctly London.
Marking their official arrival, ZENA have unveiled their debut single ‘Anchi Bale Gamé’ – a cover of the 1984 cult classic by Admas. Boldly putting their own spin on it, their version transforms the funky and synth-laden nature of the original track into a brooding and slow-burning number which heavily draws from alternative R&B, trip-hop and downtempo electronica.
Speaking on their decision to lead with a cover, Yohan said: “This song connects with everyone who hears it, beyond being an Ethiopian song, it’s just super catchy. While starting our journey with a cover might sound counter intuitive, it felt like the best way to formally announce ourselves to the world – many people are familiar with the song, but not with the way in which we’ve put it together. Hoping to start as we mean to go on!”
Listen here.
Watch the video here.
