Etenesh Wassié is one of the most distinctive voices in Ethiopian music today. Deeply rooted in the azmari tradition, she first came to prominence as one of the leading singers on Addis Ababa’s legendary cabaret scene. Since then, she has built an international career and become a sought-after collaborator among Ethiopian and European musicians alike.

Her artistic partnership with French bassist Mathieu Sourisseau and musicians from the Toulouse-based collective Freddy Morezon has developed over more than a decade. Following the acclaimed albums Belo Belo and Yene Alem, their new project, Arada, now opens a new creative chapter.

Rooted in the rich heritage of Ethiopian azmari songs, Arada ventures far beyond traditional forms. The quartet creates a powerful, contemporary musical language in which Ethiopian modes meet free jazz, blues, alternative rock and improvisation.

On stage, Etenesh Wassié’s distinctive voice - raw, deep and intensely expressive - is carried by the warm sound of the double bass, the richly textured strings and the driving rhythms of the drums. Ethiopian ballads and cabaret songs are transformed through influences as varied as Charles Mingus, Tom Waits and Sonic Youth, while retaining the emotional depth and storytelling power of azmari music.