Founded: 1982
Location: Mali
Tinariwen (Tamasheq: ⵜⵏⵔⵓⵏ; with vowels ⵜⵉⵏⴰⵔⵉⵡⵉⵏ; plural of ténéré meaning "desert") is a collective of Tuareg musicians from the Sahara region of northern Mali. Considered pioneers of desert blues, the group's guitar-driven style combines traditional Tuareg and African music with Western rock music. They have released nine albums since their formation and have toured internationally.
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Adding to their appearances at the VIVID and RISING festivals.
"Dark, mysterious melodies rang out, and he sang with power and purpose - reminiscent of a prayer."
"Identifying as Tuareg, it's dispiriting - if not heartbreaking - to identify that their music understands the refugee experience, the tyranny of borders and disintegration of homeland."
They're coming a long way to play for you
"Tragic circumstance have spurred Tinariwen on to creating their most vital album in years."
"There are some spellbinding moments such as the three-part collaboration with the queen of the tinde drum, Lalla Badi."
Whilst wherever they are they’ll always possess the soul of the Mali blues, with one of the most evocative electric guitar sounds around, six albums down it’s these subtle cross-cultural communications that see them expand their palette and continue to feel vital.