Tinariwen - Saharan Hendrix

Tinariwen's most recent album is on Independiente (UNIVERSAL), a clear sign that the majors are now interested in exploiting the Taureg dimension of sound. Who are Tinariwen? It's best to think of them as a cross between Jimmy Hendrix and Ali Farka Toure set against the backdrop of the Saharan desert. They formed in the camps of the Tuareg rebels in 1982 and their songs are sung traditionally in the French and Tamashek languages.

- Matadjem-Yinmixan, from Aman Iman

The Radio Tisdas Sessions was their first album to be released outside of Africa and in 2004, Amassakoul launched them properly onto the European stage with tour dates and appearances throughout the region. In my opinion Amassakoul is still their best work to date. To watch out for is the DVD "The Soul Rebel of the African Desert" that tells the story of the Taureg rebellion and the role of Tinariwen has played in this struggle.


Tinariwen, Amidiwan (UK music festival, 2007)