Solomon Sisay Quintet

SOLOMON SISAY AND HIS BAND
A tribute to the rich musical history of Ethiopia

Solomon Sisay is a world-class musician who shot to fame after being the chosen saxophone player for Axumite Band, a legendary outfit in Ethiopia. Solomon has since continued his legacy, playing alongside the greats such as Mahmoud Ahmed, Aleymehu Eshete, Ali Bira, Tsegaye Eshetu and with many of the young, up and coming Ethiopian music stars. Now living in Australia, he has toured Europe, Middle East, Japan and New Zealand and performed at WOMADelaide, Port Fairy Folk Festival and MONA FOMA.

In November 2019, Solomon Sisay launched his debut album, Sitota as part of the Due West Arts Festival. The launch was a sell out and the album has become a staple on community and national radio across Australia. It is one of the most talked about releases within Ethiopia and has propelled Solomon’s onto many new stages including the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, Paris Cat and Eltham Wine and Jazz Festival. Written by Solomon and fellow Ethiopian artist Nhatty Man ናቲ
ማን, Sitota (meaning gift in Amharic) is a tribute to the Ethio-Jazz modes endemic to their homeland and is a fitting salute to the saxophone’s role within Ethiopian Jazz. Since becoming popularised under the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie, who had a fondness for military brass bands, it is rare to hear an Ethio-Jazz jam without it.

The album is available for streaming and purchase on all digital platforms. Physical copies of the CD and vinyl can be purchased through themilomix.com or at performances. The artwork for the vinyl was painted by Ethiopian artist Tamirat Gebremariam and visually compliments the artistry of the album.

Link to music video: https://youtu.be/tVEzFGAyLv4

Social Media: facebook.com/solomonsisaysax