Tinariwen returns in a mesmerizing musical extravaganza

PUSAKA, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of France, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of the Grammy Award-winning world music band, Tinariwen, to Malaysia. The iconic group is set to perform at JioSpace, Petaling Jaya, on the 15th of December 2023, marking their second concert in the country as part of their Asian Tour 2023.

Tinariwen, a collective of Tuareg musicians hailing from the Sahara Desert region of northern Mali, is renowned for their pioneering musical genre known as ‘Assouf’ or ‘Sahara Blues.’ Blending ancient Tuareg melodies and rhythms with electric guitars and soulful vocals, the band has become a global phenomenon with a career spanning decades.

The Asian Tour 2023

The concert in Malaysia is part of Tinariwen’s Asian Tour 2023, with other stops in India, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Thailand. This marks their second appearance in Malaysia, promising a night of mesmerizing music that seamlessly blends traditional Tuareg sounds with modern influences.

Fans and music enthusiasts can expect a cultural journey transcending borders, providing a rare opportunity for Malaysian audiences to witness the unparalleled musical brilliance of Tinariwen. The concert will feature songs from their latest album, “Amatssou,” which has garnered widespread acclaim for its deeply-felt lyrics and rhythmic melodies, alongside some of their well-known compositions.

Tinariwen, celebrated by luminaries such as Carlos Santana and Robert Plant, has become a fascinating fusion of West African traditions and Western rock. Their universal resonance has earned them a Grammy Award for Best World Music Album in 2012 and performances at major events like the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Cultural fusion

The event will take place at JioSpace, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, starting at 8:30 PM. In addition to the musical extravaganza by Tinariwen, the opening acts will feature Nading Rhapsody, an indigenous world music group from Sarawak, and traditional drummers of Chinna Rasa Urumee Melum Masana Kali. These acts promise to add a unique Malaysian touch to the evening, creating a cultural fusion that reflects the diversity of the country.

PUSAKA, the cultural organization behind this event, is dedicated to researching and archiving traditional art forms in Malaysia. By curating festivals and supporting local performance traditions, PUSAKA aims to preserve the dignity and stature of traditional performers while fostering a deep interaction with the country’s history and contemporary ideas.

Tickets for the concert are available in three categories: Oasis (seated) at RM350, Sahara (standing) at RM200, and Dune (mezzanine standing) at RM250. Seats will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets can be purchased at Jiotix.asia.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unique cultural experience. For more information, contact [email protected] or [email protected].