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7 / 10 Mali is arguably the most musically diverse country in Africa. At the other end of the scale from the state-sanctioned virtuoso kora player Toumani Diabate (the star of Damon Albarn’s ‘Mali Music’) are Tinariwen. Their history as Saharan volunteers in a rebel army opposing the government between 1980 and 1996 has certainly given them longevity. However, their music is a relatively mellow and sublimely positive blend of traditional Mandé vibes, blues and rock. Chris Martin has claimed they were an influence on ‘Vida La Vida…’. This might be no more audible than the influence of Ming The Merciless on his piano playing, but suggests that despite their genuine outsider status, they could still become mainstream contenders.

John Doran

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Date/Time	Venue	Town/City	Seetickets	Viagogo
Apr 05, 2012 19:00	Oran Mor	Glasgow	Buy Tinariwen Tickets from £17
Apr 06, 2012 19:30	Queens Hall - Edin	Edinburgh	Buy Tinariwen Tickets from £17
Apr 07, 2012 20:00	Colston Hall	Bristol	Buy Tinariwen Tickets from £20
Apr 08, 2012 19:30	Hmv Ritz	Manchester	Buy Tinariwen Tickets from £18
Apr 10, 2012 19:30	Hmv Institute	Birmingham	Buy Tinariwen Tickets from £18