Born out of war and exile, this Malian group creates blistering, compelling West African rock music fused with elements of reggae and country.
It was formed in 2012 when three musicians from northern Mali – Aliou Touré, Garba Touré and Oumar Touré (not related) – fled to the capital, Bamako, after the Islamist group Ansar Dine took control of the region, banning music among much else. The three met in Bamako, recruited drummer Nathanael Dembelé, and a band began.
Following their debut, Music in Exile, their new album Résistance explores how Mali is perceived by the rest of the world in music often described as ‘desert blues.’
Aliou explains, ‘The situation in Mali now is different from 2012: it is getting better, so the lyrics we wrote are all about that.’
Painting a picture of their part of the world with humour and defiance, the band collaborate on Résistance with special guests including Iggy Pop.
Support comes from Snapped Ankles. Now settled in east London, Snapped Ankles maintain the feral energy of the forest, with primal rhythms, the rush of white noise and post-punk angles.
More Listings MORE
Made in Ancient Egypt
From the gold mask of Tutankhamun to the bust of Nefertiti, ancient Egyptians produced objects that remain iconic…
Out-Spoken: January
Out-Spoken is the Southbank Centre’s resident night of poetry and live music, showcasing some of the most exciting…
Magic Of Motown
Seen by millions, The Magic of Motown returns with all the soul, style and sparkle that’s made it…
David Olusoga
Multi-Award-Winning producer, presenter, historian and professor, David Olusoga examines some of history’s missing chapters to uncover how and…
A Night to Remember: Motown Show
Get ready to relive the magic of 1960s Detroit with A Night To Remember – a live celebration…
Legend – The Bob Marley Story
When you think of reggae, there is one name that stands above all: Bob Marley. Legend – The…
Afel Bocoum
Afel Bocoum is one of Mali’s most respected and enduring musical voices — a bridge between generations, a…
Sunday Piano Series: Amiri Harewood
Young British rising-star pianist Amiri Harewood takes the spotlight with a sweeping programme that journeys across continents and…