The title of Mulatu Astatke's album Mulatu Steps Ahead isn't just a nod to his jazz roots, it's also an acknowledgment of the fact that his music has been slowly evolving since the late 60's and early 70's output for which he remains most known. A collaboration with musicians of varying ages and nationalities, his first solo album in over 20 years refines his singular musical vision and builds upon the foundation he has laid in his storied career. In this video, Astatke explains the intent and process involved in different tracks on the album. Mulatu Steps Ahead is out now!

We're extremely pleased to announce that following up on his much loved Inspiration Information collaboration with The Heliocentrics, and an anthology of his early work, Strut will be releasing the first all new Internationally released solo album from Mulatu Astatke in over 20 years.  Mulatu Steps Ahead explores new directions in fusions of Western jazz with Ethiopian modes, moving forward the pioneering sound Mulatu developed during the ‘60s and ‘70s, showcased on the anthology New York - Addis - London. For the new album, tracks were recorded with members of Either/Orchestra in Boston, with contributions by traditional Ethiopian musicians in Addis, members of The Heliocentrics and some of the UK’s leading jazz and African players during the final sessions in London in November 2009.

Mulatu will be touring the album from March 2010 globally, interspersed with dates with The Heliocentrics.  Streaming audio and info will be available soon at http://www.mulatu-steps-ahead.com

This week on Arte - Tracks, a documentary about Mulatu Astatke. If you have access, watch it!
More info here:
French: http://bit.ly/BCFrk
German: http://bit.ly/me2WW