Addis Acoustic Project

Girum Mezmur-The Addis Acoustic Project

Comprised of some of Addis Ababa’s finest acoustic musicians, the “Addis Acoustic Project” brings forth Ethiopia’s popular tunes from the 1950s and 1960s in a new light. Directed and arranged by guitarist Girum Mezmur, the “Addis Acoustic Project” unfolds Ethiopian music from the past in a contemporary way. The group’s musical style has influences of traditional East-African, Jazz, and Latin in it.

The band, composed of veteran musicians such as Ayele Mamo (Mandolin), as well as contemporary musicians such as Girum Mezmur (Guitar/Accordion/Arrangement), Henock Temesgen (Double Bass), Nathaniel Tesemma (Drums/Percussions), Aklilu Wolde Yohannes (Clarinet/Flute), and Misale Legesse (Kebero/Percussions), produces unique sounds dear to most Ethiopians and that undoubtedly appeal to a greater world music audience. Some have even dubbed the group as being similar to the “Buena Vista Social Club”.

Addis Acoustic Projects’ founder/ musical director, guitarist Girum Mezmur, has performed with the who’s who of Ethiopian music including Aster Awoke, Teddy Afro, Ali Birra, and Mahmoud Ahmed. His musical relationship with Mahmoud Ahmed has provided him the opportunity to tour several countries worldwide including Africa, Europe, and Canada, playing at major international music festivals such as the WOMAD, the Montreal Jazz Festival, Roskilde Festival, etc. Girum has also had the honor of participating in U.K’s 2007 BBC Radio World Music Award, appearing as Mahmoud Ahmed’s guitarist. It was here where Mahmoud Ahmed won the nomination for “Best Artist” under the category “Africa”. Girum has also performed with renown international artists such as Angelique Kidjo, Ray Lema, Brice Wassi, and Ali Keita.
Girum Mezmur is also a cofounder of Jazzamba Music School and live music venue in Addis Ababa, as well as the yearly Acacia Jazz & World Music Festival.

Since its premiere at the 7th Ethiopian Music Festival (May 2008), the Addis Acoustic Project has been enjoying great success. The group currently performs on a weekly basis at one of Addis Ababa’s hip jazz spots..."Jazzamba". The band has also performed internationally at renowned festivals such as WOMEX 2009 in Copenhagen-Denmark, Selam Festival in Stockholm-Sweden as well as TFF Rudolstadt Festival in Rudolstadt-Germany.

The band released its debut album "Tewesta"- Remembrance" on the world music label, Harmonia Mundi/World Village in August 2011.