Jorga Mesfin‘s debut album, “The Kindest One,” is a daring exploration of Ethio-jazz that pushes the genre’s boundaries in exciting new directions. The young Ethiopian saxophonist and composer, a protégé of the legendary Mulatu Astatke, fearlessly fuses spiritual experimentation with diverse elements spanning Ethiopian music, jazz, and the Ethiopian jazz tradition that came before.

Mesfin is considered one of Ethiopia’s most gifted contemporary musicians. He launched his professional career at just 17 and has since collaborated with a who’s who of renowned artists, including Mulatu Astatke, Mahmoud Ahmed, Aster Aweke, and international stars like Vijay Iyer and Kirk Whalum.

Across eight adventurous tracks, Mesfin and his talented ensemble weave a mesmerizing tapestry of sound. Mesfin’s soaring saxophone and piano work dance elegantly with percussion, accordion, bass, and djembe rhythms. Standouts include the contemplative opener “Thanksgiving”, the transporting “Pilgrimage”, and the joyful, celebratory title track “The Kindest One”.

“The Kindest One” heralds the arrival of a visionary new voice in Ethio-jazz. By honouring tradition, while boldly experimenting with fresh ideas, Jorga Mesfin has crafted an impressive, forward-thinking debut that pushes the genre into an exciting future. Highly recommended.