ALEM (worldin Amharic) is the 2nd release in a series of collaborations between The Hoodna Orchestra and artist and performers from Ethiopia. The song was written and sung by the singer and poet Demisu Belete, to a tune by Ilan Smilan. It is an intense love song describing one's love as a cure to all pains and woes. Belete's singing style is heavily influenced by the great singers from the golden age of Ethiopian music, especially Mahmoud Ahmed and Tilahun Gesesse. Belete's deep voice, alongside the dynamic and groovy performance by the Hoodna orchestra, creates a powerful composition that sweeps the listeners away to a different time and place. The B-side is an Ethio-dub version of the song that features members of ADYABO Ensemble, a group that specializes in traditional Ethiopian music and Folklore. The song titled ALEM-DUB is an attempt at fusing old and new, tradition and Modernity. The result is a hypnotically groovy track, heavily painted in Bright psychedelic colors. The single will be released in a 7" vinyl format and will be launched at the Red Sea Jazz Festival Aug. 30th 2017 and in a series of special shows featuring DEMISU BELETE which will come to Israel especially for this occasion
