After a short break, the French-Ethiopian group uKanDanZ is back. Led by the charismatic singer Asnake Gebreyes, Ethiopian rhythms and melodies are linked to pop, rock, jazz and nowadays also electronica, resulting in a unique style. Asnake Gebreyes hails from the vibrant music scene in Addis Ababa where he is in demand as an artist.
The fuel of this modern trance machine remains Ethiopian soul, with two fundamental elements: the elastic voice of Gebreyes and the compositions of Damien Cluzel, never more comfortable than in triggering musical and cultural crossovers.
The line-up of the French part of the group has changed since the comeback. Not only does uKanDanZ have a new drummer who plays electronic drums, the synth bass player is also new. The band's sound is therefore more electronic and more open and funky, as can be heard on the album Ye kettleale, but still fascinating and powerful. Ukandanz continues to belong to the front line of innovative ethio-jazz bands.
Asnake Gebreyes – vocals Damien Cluzel – bass guitar Lionel Martin – tenor sax Fred Escoffier – keyboards Thomas Pierre - drums