Tamikrest

📷Shida Masataka

Tamikrest is a Tuareg blues band formed in 2006 in Kidal, a town in the northeastern region of Mali. The band's music is a fusion of traditional Tuareg melodies, West African rhythms, and Western rock and blues influences, creating a unique sound often referred to as "desert blues" or "Saharan rock." The name "Tamikrest" means "crossing" or "junction" in the Tamashek language, reflecting the band's desire to merge diverse musical styles and cultures.

The members of Tamikrest belong to the Tuareg ethnic group, traditionally nomadic people found throughout the Sahara Desert. The band's music and lyrics reflect the Tuareg people's rich cultural heritage, history, and the political struggles they have faced. Many of their songs address themes like hope, resilience, and the quest for self-determination.

📷Shida Masataka

Tamikrest's lineup includes founder Ousmane Ag Mossa (vocals, guitar), Aghaly Ag Mohamedine (percussion, backing vocals), Cheick Ag Tiglia (bass, backing vocals), Paul Salvagnac (guitar), and Nicolas Grupp (drums). Their music has garnered international attention, and they have performed at numerous festivals and venues around the world.

Some of Tamikrest's notable albums include "Adagh" (2010), "Toumastin" (2011), "Chatma" (2013), "Kidal" (2017), and "Tamotait" (2020). The band's sound has evolved over the years, incorporating a wider range of musical styles while still staying true to their Tuareg roots. Tamikrest is often compared to the pioneering Tuareg band Tinariwen, but they have carved out their own identity within the desert blues genre.