Single Focus: Nhatty Man & The Lalibelas

Answered by: Nhatty Man

Single title? Andneger

What's the song about? Sung in Amharic, "Until we meet again, don't be sad, wait with a smile", for lovers/migrants/travellers/everyone far from loved ones.

How long did it take to write/record? I worked collaboratively with bassist and Lalibelas' member Yoseph H Bekele to arrange the song over a couple of weeks.

Is this track from a forthcoming release/existing release? The song is featured on Multicultural Arts Victoria's Visible 10 release, recorded with producer Oscar Jimenez and my first collaboration with The Lalibelas who are an amazing Melbourne-based Ethio-jazz band.

What was inspiring you during the song's writing and recording? Produced leading up to Ethiopian New Year, yellow flowers were blooming, a symbol of our new year/beginnings — very inspiring. We wanted to send a message of peace and well wishes to all over the world. 

We'll like this song if we like… Mahmoud Ahmed, Mulatu Astatke, Alemayehu Eshete, Dereb The Ambassador.

Do you play it differently live? No, we recorded it live (rather than over dubbing) so the sound is very similar live.

When and where is your launch/next gig? At Multicultural Arts Victoria's State of Culture showcase, 26 Nov at The Curtin, launching four releases from MAV's programs: Visible 10 (feat. Andeneger), ReMastered Myths, Producers' Lounge, Common Ground.

Website link for more info? multiculturalarts.com.au/event/stateofculture2015