Hoodna Orchestra

Biography

Hoodna Orchestra is a dynamic collective formed in 2012 in the southern Tel Aviv neighborhood of Florentin, Israel. The group originated as a gathering of musicians and composers united by a deep appreciation for Afrobeat, initially rehearsing and performing at the Hoodna Bar, which became their creative headquarters. Over time, the ensemble expanded both in size—reaching up to 12 or 14 members—and in musical scope, weaving together influences from West African funk, psychedelic rock, hard funk, soul, jazz, and, notably, East African music, especially Ethiopian jazz.[1][2][3][4][8]

The orchestra’s evolution was marked by a growing fascination with Ethiopian sounds, particularly the Ethio-jazz pioneered by Mulatu Astatke. This interest led to collaborations with Ethiopian artists such as singer Tesfaye Negatu and, most recently, a landmark partnership with Astatke himself for the 2024 album 'Tension.' Produced by Neal Sugarman of the Dap-Kings, the album showcases Hoodna’s brass-heavy, rhythmically intense style alongside Astatke’s signature vibraphone and Ethiopian scales, earning international recognition and airplay from outlets like BBC Radio 6 Music.[1][2][4][6]

Hoodna Orchestra’s musical style is defined by its fusion of African jazz, funk, and local Israeli influences, reflecting the diverse ethnic makeup of Tel Aviv. Their legacy lies in bridging genres and cultures, introducing Ethio-jazz and Afrobeat to new audiences, and fostering creative collaborations that push the boundaries of contemporary jazz and world music.[1][3][4]

Fun Facts

• Hoodna Orchestra began as a rehearsal project in a local bar, eventually transforming the venue into a hub for Afrobeat and jazz in Tel Aviv.[3]
• The group’s lineup has fluctuated between 12 and 14 members, emphasizing a collective rather than a fixed band structure.[3]
• Their music has received praise and airplay from international figures such as Iggy Pop and Huey Morgan on BBC Radio 6 Music.[2]
• Hoodna Orchestra’s collaboration with Mulatu Astatke was produced by Neal Sugarman, co-founder of Daptone Records and member of the Dap-Kings.[1][2]

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Mulatu Astatke - Pioneer of Ethio-jazz; major stylistic influence and recent collaborator (Tension (2024), Ethio Orchestra project) [2023–2024]
• Adyabo Ensemble - Israeli group specializing in traditional Ethiopian music; helped Hoodna Orchestra incorporate Ethiopian modes and rhythms (Live collaborations, rehearsal support) [2010s]

Key Collaborators

• Mulatu Astatke - Co-wrote and performed on the album 'Tension' (Tension (2024)) [2023–2024]
• Tesfaye Negatu - Ethiopian singer; collaborated on earlier Hoodna Orchestra recordings (Single/recording with Hoodna Orchestra) [2010s]
• Neal Sugarman - Producer and multi-instrumentalist (Dap-Kings); produced 'Tension' and participated in recording sessions (Tension (2024)) [2023–2024]
• Ilan Smilan - Guitarist; core member of Hoodna Orchestra (All Hoodna Orchestra releases) [2012–present]
• Eitan Drabkin - Organist; core member of Hoodna Orchestra (All Hoodna Orchestra releases) [2012–present]
• Rani Birenbaum - Percussionist and Hoodna Bar owner; founding member (All Hoodna Orchestra releases) [2012–present]

Artists Influenced

• Local Tel Aviv jazz and funk musicians - Inspired by Hoodna Orchestra’s fusion of African and East African styles; contributed to the city’s vibrant live music scene (Various local projects and ensembles) [2012–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Tension (Tension)
2. Major (Tension)
3. Delilah (Tension)
4. Hatula (Tension)
5. Dung Gate (Tension)
6. Yashan (Tension)
7. Sof Layla (Ba Hoodna) (Sof Layla (Ba Hoodna))
8. Dung Gate (Dung Gate)
9. Tension (Tension)
10. Major (Major)

External Links

• Spotify