Roaring Abyss

Filmed over the course of two years, Quino Piñero's documentary explores traditional music in Ethiopia, although since none of the acts are identified until the end credits the effect is more immersive than informative. Musicians sing and play in community centers and village squares, either a capella or with minimal instrumental accompaniment (most of the instruments are vintage or handmade). Some of the groups are small, while others feature every citizen in town. Weldie, a visually-impaired musician, explains that his father made the washent, a flute-like instrument that he plays. Mengesha talks about his affection for a spindly-stringed instrument called the masenqo (he made his own). "No one can compete with my skills," he states proudly. He has also taught his sons how to play, so the tradition continues. One interviewee who conducts a police marching band says that he appreciates the freedom to play what he wants, which wasn't the case during the country's more repressive past. Another group sings a song in praise of coffee. The lead singer explains that coffee originated in Ethiopia, and that it's the stuff of life (though he actually uses an Ethiopian word for "tool"). Piñero ends with a group playing Western instruments, like electric guitars, in an Ethio-Jazz style—a melding of native and foreign influences. Offering a multifaceted look at the music of this country of 100 million people who have different cultures and speak 80 different languages, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)