The Nazarenes are Medhane Tewolde and Noah Isac Tewolde, two brothers who grew up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in the mid 70's among a large close-knit family. At that time and place Reggae was considered to be sort of an underground music and despite the scarcity and the lack of due promotion, the hypnotic riddim and the conscious message it carried soon engulfed the heart and soul of the entire family. This was a very unique sound - all types of music but Reggae blared through the speakers of every café and clubs and on the radio. Medhane and Noah's taste in music stood out among their peers. Medhane received his first guitar at the age of 12 and he began to scratch. In the 80's Medhane and Noah played with various bands in Europe (mainly Sweden and Germany). Medhane on guitar and as lead vocal, Noah on bass and back vocal. In the 1990's Medhane joined well known Reggae bands from Jamaica and went on European and African tours with the likes of Iqulah, Culture Knox, Mamma Booker (Bob Marley's mother). Noah soon took upon lead singing. In 1992 he was discovered in Gothenburg, Sweden, which landed him a solo record deal with Virgin Records. He released three singles, one of which was a hit in Sweden. In 1994 his debut album was released through Virgin Records under the name Anbessa. In 1996 Medhane and Noah reunited their forces and engaged on a new venture; their own style and vibe. As the Nazarenes they released their debut album "Orit" in 2000.

Four years further on their musical route they come up with a notable concept album called "Songs Of Life". It's our first acquaintance with the Nazarenes' music and what instantly grabs attention are their wonderful nasal and slightly hoarse vocals of a rare mythical beauty. Medhane and Noah are accompanied by Swedish musicians such as Stefan Sandberg, Jesper Lundaahl, Erik Bodin, Michael Azar, and Kalle Stenbäcken, who fully master the horn riffs and incredible precise provide the building blocks of the musical foundation. On this cd you'll find a fresh and vibrant blend of Roots Reggae that fully reflects their talent and dedication. Spread over thirteen solid to excellent tracks the Nazarenes express their spiritual and conscious views of life. Our choice musical cuts are "Song Of Love", "Song Of Righteous Life", "Song Of Liberation", "Song Of War Mongers" and "Song Of Mission". "Songs Of Life" is an inspirational and entertaining collection of tunes, worthwhile checking out.






 by Quatty, ReggaeTrain.com
 E-Mail: info@reggaetrain.com