Aman Iman: Water Is Life

by

Tinariwen

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If you're bored with American rockers who like to pretend that they're sticking it to the man, make yourself familiar with the lyrical and musical wonders of Tinariwen. Made up of former freedom fighters in the quest for the independence of the Touareg people from the colonialist regimes of North Africa, the musicians of Tinariwen possess a true revolutionary wisdom that Americans can only dream about, as they really have been persecuted by the authorities in their home country of Mali. Tinariwen also has a very unique musical history. Legend has it that early in their history as a band, the musicians happened to come across a stash of old blues records and dilapidated electric guitars, all of which had been unknown in their country. Tinariwen has combined a unique interpretation of the blues, homegrown guitar and bass techniques, and the traditional music of the Touareg people - thus creating a relentlessly fascinating sound that is as sparse and haunting as the immense Saharan landscape in which they dwell.

The liner notes for this album state that many of the songs were written over Tinariwen's 25-year history. Since they were not able to record professional-quality releases until recent years, it appears that Tinariwen has spread this extensive backlog across their recent releases. Therefore, this album sounds very similar to Tinariwen's last album, the equally fascinating Amassakoul. But rest assured that more is definitely better in the case of this band's equally exotic and accessible music. Established fans will especially appreciate the songs on this album that illustrate Tinariwen's effortless ability to branch out and expand their vision. The opener "Cler Achel" is a swinging blues-rock workout that is sparsely percussive and nearly funky, "Toumast" incorporates haunting effects from dub reggae, and "Assouf" features some wicked wah-wah that sounds like what Jimi Hendrix might have come up with if he had traveled with Brian Jones or Robert Plant through the Sahara. The masterful and exotic Touareg style of vocal arrangement is also prevalent throughout this album, particularly in "Imidiwan Winakalin" and "Awa Didjen." Tinariwen deliver music that is truly revolutionary - especially for listeners who crave enlightenment through intriguing and exotic new sounds. [~doosmdayer520~]