The Endless Journey can best be described as a cultural touring project, an event incorporating live music, documentary film and a photographic exhibition. Made up of four musicians from Niger’s popular ensembles: Mamane Barka and Etran Finatawa (read our 2010 article about them) the artists took a desert road trip in 2010 to bring their music to the outlying schools of Niger. The resulting documentary was made by the talented photographer and film maker Jean Molitor which captures the essence of the journey along with the social and political issues they face as well as unique footage of their attempt to reinvigorate traditions for a new generation.
They are well placed to act as global ambassadors having taken the music of nomadic tribes to stages across the world so it is great news that they are bringing this project to the UK. The full performance incorporates specially mixed visuals projected behind the performers in order to create a powerful and emotive live experience. Together, the four musicians’ swirling strings, driving rhythms and haunting vocals evoke the vast open spaces of the desert and the very soul of nomadic life.
The powerful combination of these world-class artists together with the touring film and photo exhibition is sure to resonate musical meaning both on and off the stage.
The exact dates and venues of the tour are yet to be announced.