Despite a discography stretching out over two decades, restless international touring and recognition, as well as collaborations with a host of US and European musical pioneers, some things remain exactly the same: Tinariwen are still at their core a desert band, with only certain aspects that the Western music industry can ever hope to capture.
Their music has a remarkable timeless quality, with songs coming together as they would back in Mali, played late at night around the fire. Deep into the evening the musicians bring out their guitars, chat, recall old songs and just let the music come at its own pace. In those moments, the music rises like a shower of sparks and without premeditation, revealing stories of friendship, community, nature and a shared history.
Lyrically and thematically, the band explore the continuing political, social, humanitarian and environmental problems faced in their home country and continue their pledge to highlight the issues of the Tuareg people through their mesmeric music. Tackling the climate catastrophe and the ongoing conflicts that have dogged Mali since it gained independence in 1960, this free-spirited collective of exiles and former rebel fighters will light up the Summer Series stage with their wonderful musicianship, soulful presence and prowess.
