Te’Amir is a master of rhythm, both as a drummer in the LA jazz, soul, and hip hop scenes (with the likes of Aloe Blacc, Ethio Cali, and Kamasi Washington) and as a producer. On Abyssinia & Abyssinia Rise, which ties together two previous EPs, he delves into his Ethiopian heritage through a series of soulful, beat-driven and jazzy compositions. “Habesha” immediately sets the tone with its blend of Ethio-Jazz and hip-hop beats, before Dustin Warren’s smooth vocals open up “The Quest” accompanied by light touches of harp and violin. Throughout the record Te’Amir seamlessly ties together these different sounds, blending cosmic jazz with nostalgic Ethiopian arrangements and skittering electronics. It works a treat.