Take a trip through Addis Abeba with Ethiopian Records’ “MAKEDA” video

Off the vinyl-only EP, Ye Feqer Edaye.

August 23, 2018

Ethiopian Records is an Addis Abeba-based producer and DJ making thoughtful electronic and experimental music in a style he describes as “Ethiopiyawi electronic" — work that is grounded in his home culture. Over the past few years, he's made a name for himself through a drip of EPs and mixes, all with a singular style. Earlier this summer, he released a vinyl-only EP, Ye Feqer Edaye, via Warp imprint Arcola. Today, Ethiopian Records is debuting the video for "MAKEDA," an enchanting, cleverly percussive track off that project.

ADVERTISEMENT

"The video takes us through the streets of Addis Abeba in the eyes of a wandering young girl, who makes these streets her playground. It is the representation of a day in the eyes of this little girl. Makeda is the Ethiopian name of The Queen of Sheba or Bilqis," he explains. The clip is urgent-feeling, a rogue adventure through streets and back alleys, amplified by emotional camera-work and editing.

In an accompanying artist statement, which he describes as being just as important to him as the music is, he outlines a sociopolitical mission of sorts. Read an illustrated version, with artwork by Dawit Muluneh, here.

ADVERTISEMENT
Take a trip through Addis Abeba with Ethiopian Records’ “MAKEDA” video