Tinariwen is the emblem of a revolutionary musical movement that emerged in the 1980s on the shared borders of Mali, Niger, Algeria and Libya. Their songs reflect the transformation of the culture of the Tuareg and echo their new socio-political messages. By mixing images of their daily lives in the Sahara, personal archives and stories of each and by playing exclusive recordings, ‘Sawt el Wahuch’ retraces the extraordinary journey and life of Abreybone, legendary artist and icon of the Tuareg people and the history of one of the most influential bands of Tuareg blues of all time—Tinariwen.
In the heart of the Sahara live Abreybone and his pals Kiki, Akalaï, Diara, Japonais, and Abin-Abin, with whom he has shared years of exile, combat, and music. These men work, raise their children, and create their songs in the desert, admired by the young Tuareg who became their “foster” children. The young Tuareg gather around the veterans and become privileged interlocutors. A dialogue begins then between those veterans and the new generation. Their stories resonate with their current context. They highlight historical facts that marked all those who witnessed them and explain why history is repeating itself today. These veterans do not take part in the new Tuareg revolution. They witness the efforts of the next generation to face new challenges. They continue their lives in the margin of the fighting. Each passing day is a struggle for survival and lost freedom. They strive to fill the inner void left by the war during musical evenings between friends. Their songs are the original recordings of their wanderings, fighting, friendships, and the best way to ensure that their messages can travel beyond their borders.
