Black Jesus Experience are bringing their irresistibly danceable alloy of traditional Ethiopian song and 21st century groove to the Hawthorn Arts Centre.
Fusing elements of hip hop, jazz and funk with the Azmari musical tradition of the Ethiopian Highlands, the ensemble reflects the multicultural vibrancy of Melbourne.
Lead singer Enushu began entertaining her local community as a child in Addis Ababa. She migrated to Australia, bringing hauntingly beautiful compositions inspired by her remarkable life story and the unique vocal traditions of Ethiopia.
Enushu is joined on vocals by Mr Monk, Zimbabwe born and outback bred. Their ensemble includes much-loved Australian musicians including Bob Sedergreen, Peter Harper, Ian Dixon, Zac Lister, Richard Rose, James Davies and Kahan Harper.
Having recorded 7 albums and played countless live shows all over the world, in 2023 they were nominated for a prestigious Music Victoria Award. Their most recent album, ‘To Know Without Knowing’ was The Guardian Jazz Album of the Month, with 4-star reviews from The Times, Blues + Soul, NPR Music and more.
The rhymes and chimes of Black Jesus Experience deliver the power and beauty of Africa through the vocal prism of hip-hop and freedom of funk.
