Ibex Band - Stereo Instrumental Music 2xLP
$39.98
Label: Muzikawi
Release Date: May 9th, 2025
The Ibex Band, led by Giovanni Rico and Selam Woldemariam, shaped the sound of modern Ethiopian music, backing legends like Aster Aweke, Girma Beyene, and Mahmoud Ahmed, and contributing to iconic albums like Ere Mela Mela. Their 1976 album Stereo Instrumental Music resurfaces after decades, showcasing their innovative fusion of traditional Ethiopian rhythms with contemporary influences.
Despite the challenges of political turmoil in Ethiopia during the 70s and 80s, the band modernized Ethiopian music with a new, danceable sound driven by Giovanni’s bass and Selamino’s guitar. Their work influenced a generation of musicians, both in instrumentation and style.
The band’s output was prolific, creating over 250 albums and 2500 songs in the 70s and 80s, much of which remains hard to find today. Stereo Instrumental Music was recorded with Swedish collaborator Karl-Gustav Lundgren and used pioneering four-track recording technology. Despite difficult political conditions, including curfews and limited resources, Ibex Band’s music captured a moment in history, blending tradition and modernity.
The legacy of the Ibex Band is one of adaptability, resilience, and musical innovation, creating timeless music that continues to influence modern Ethiopian culture.
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