Admas: Pioneers of Ethiopian Jazz and Funk
Admas is an influential Ethiopian music group known for revitalizing classic Ethio-jazz with a modern, funk-infused sound. Formed in Washington D.C. by Ethiopian diaspora musicians, the band gained international acclaim following the reissue of their self-titled 1981 album, introducing their music to a new global audience.
Early career
Admas was formed in 1981 in the United States by musicians who had left Ethiopia. The founding members, including guitarist Henock Temesgen and keyboardist Abegasu Kibrework Shiota, were steeped in the golden age of Ethiopian music but sought to push its boundaries. Their early work was a direct fusion of traditional Ethiopian melodies with the contemporary funk, jazz, and synth-driven sounds of the early 1980s.
Breakthrough
The band's breakthrough to a worldwide audience occurred decades after their initial formation. In 2006, the Belgian label Ethiosonic reissued their long-lost album Admas, originally pressed in limited quantities. This re-release coincided with a growing global interest in Ethio-jazz, catapulting Admas from obscurity to celebrated status within the world music and rare groove scenes.
Key tracks
Admas — The title track from their 1981 album is a definitive statement of their hybrid style, blending a driving bassline with unmistakably Ethiopian scales.
Almaz — This song showcases their ability to reinterpret classic Ethiopian tunes, giving a funk rhythm to a beloved melody originally by Alemayehu Eshete.
Musicawi Silt — A vibrant instrumental piece that highlights the band's tight musicianship and serves as a prime example of their cross-cultural sonic experiment.
Tezeta — Their version of this quintessential Ethiopian "memory" song genre demonstrates deep respect for tradition while framing it within their own unique arrangement.
The renewed interest led to active touring and new recordings. Admas performed at major international festivals and, in 2008, released the album Recreating, which featured new compositions alongside fresh interpretations of Ethiopian classics. Their music has been featured on numerous compilation albums dedicated to African and rare groove music, solidifying their legacy.
For fans of the vibrant Admas sound, explore similar artists on our platform. Discover Mulatu Astatke, the father of Ethio-jazz whose work is a foundational influence. Listen to Either Orchestra, an American ensemble that has deeply collaborated with Ethiopian musicians. Check out Imperial Tiger Orchestra, a Swiss group known for its energetic modern takes on Ethiopian pop. Explore Abyssinia Infinite, the project led by singer and guitarist Ejigayehu "Gigi" Shibabaw, which explores similar sonic landscapes.
The music of Admas holds a regular place in the rotations of specialty world music radio stations, classic funk FM channels, and online radio streams dedicated to African music history. Their distinctive fusion makes them a staple on programs focused on global grooves and musical rediscovery.
You can experience the innovative funk and jazz of Admas on radio stations featured here. Listeners can discover the enduring appeal of this Ethiopian group through the variety of online radio stations available on onairium.com.
