Ethio Cali is a Los Angeles-based Ethio-Jazz ensemble, led by trumpeter, arranger, and composer Todd Simon. The ensemble’s sublime sound is inspired by the golden age of Ethiopian music of the 1960’s and 70’s, filtered through a lens that is uniquely Los Angeles. Acknowledging the diverse musical foundations of Ethio-Jazz, the ensemble also draws inspiration from the rhythmic and melodic textures across Africa, Central/Latin America and the Caribbean.
Ethio Cali features:
Todd Simon – Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Music Director
Randal Fisher – Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Flute
Tylana Renga – Violin
Alan Lightner – Steel Pan
Kibrom Birhane – Keys and Vocals
Nadav Peled – Guitar
Brandon Owens – Bass
Kahlil Cummings & Steve Haney – Percussion
Te’Amir Yohannes Sweeney – Drums
Extended Family:
Kamasi Washington – Tenor Saxophone
Justo Almario– Tenor Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet