Terakaft (meaning “The Caravan” in Tamashek) was founded in 2001 by ex-Tinariwen guitarist/vocalist Kedou ag Ossad (nicknamed “Khiwaj” or “The Giant”) and guitarist/bassist/vocalist Liya Ag Ablil, aka Diara. Each made important contributions to the latter outfit’s development, but Kedou, a hero of the Touareg Rebellion, was inspired to leave his Sahara-based hometown of Kidal, Mali for extended stays in Algeria and Libya. Upon his return, he re-established his partnership with Diara and they invited Rhissa Ag Ogham (guitars, vocals – he had been in Libya with Kedou and is also a talented painter) and Sanou Ag Ahmed (guitars, bass, vocals) to join in.
Terakaft made its live debut at the 2007 Festival In The Desert, recorded a first album, Bismilla (The Bko Sessions), and embarked upon an extensive European tour. Their current album Kel Tamasheq (refers to those who speak Tamashek, meaning The Tuareg People) was recorded in Anjou, France, and produced by British guitarist and producer Justin Adams and co-produced by Jean-Paul Romann of the French supergroup Lo’Jo.
Adams is no stranger to the Touareg desert blues sound having produced albums for Tinariwen and Lo’Jo, his production skills shift what could potentially be another similar sounding Touareg album to something all the more exciting, intense and original. There are some really nice touches, subtle but noticeable such as the slide guitar of French guitarist Jean-Louis Livenais.
The opening Tiera takes off like a rocket and from there on in you can expect to hear Touareg music like you’ve never heard it before as they lock it down into a blissful rocked-out album that stands proud! Seeing that intensity take form on stage is an opportunity you do not want to miss!
Terakaft: Live at Cargo, London
TERAKAFT will be performing at Cargo on 10 April Apr 2013 (Tickets and details)
Aïma Ymaïma live session
Giveaway
For the chance for you and one other to get on the guestlist for this special performance just email us here: alex [at] www.folkradio.co.uk and enter Terakaft in the subject title along with your name and contact details. Closing date: Thursday 7th February 2013