Jorg and Munit’s concert

It was a low-key musical affair yet an immensely enjoyable experience for the mostly young audience at Hager Fikir Theatre. Two young musicians, one a US-based Ethiopian female vocal singer and a German guitar player, took the stage at the huge, high-ceilingled hall. There wasn’t any flashy or heavy instrument-just the two of them-Jorg and Munit, with of course their guitar.
It was Munit who did the introduction with her stammering but proper Amharic, at times mixing with English. She had an aura of simplicity and humour. She told us that she was having a cold, so she might produce some bizarre sounds, she warned us. Jorg was also having flu, she told us to beware, because “nifit” might come anytime. It was a little cheeky but the audience roared.
The first line of song they played was Bob Marley’s rendering of “Jamming”. It was enjoyable and fairly upbeat. The next one, “Just the two us” the cover song for their CD which was on sale at the entrance. The audience seemed unable to settle on response to the music at this early stage and a mixture of reaction were seen.
As the atmosphere progresses, the crowd entertained with a mixture of original and time tested favourtie music.
One of the songs, “I remember” which Munit said was her first full Amharic song conjures up childhood memory, like drinking Pepsi and watching Ababa Tesfaye on ETV. There was a hint of sadness in her voice as she recalls those times passed. Other songs include Tracy Chapman’s “Give Me one Reason”. But my favourite one was an interpretation of Girma Beyene’s “Set Alaminm” which Munit understandably changed in to “Wonde Alaminm”. It beautifully displayed Munit’s talent for soft, fluid vocals.
The music style expresses childhood innocence and simplicity. This style can be witnessed in “Lem Lem.”
I feel some of the songs need some more work and practice but all in all the two deserve respect and attention.
Jorg and Munit’s C.D ..just the two of us, recorded live at @ the Coffee House could be found at Irea Music shop in Kazanchis.