“The heaviest desert rock-out yet … Tamikrest’s music blazes with a righteous intensity that is almost scary.” - Songlines (Top of the World)

Tamikrest is an iconic Saharan rock band that has redefined the sound of contemporary Tuareg music. Formed in 2006 in Tinzawaten, on the border between Algeria and Mali, by Ousmane Ag Mossa, Cheikh Ag Tiglia, and Aghaly Ag Mohamedine, the group channels the rich musical heritage of their predecessors, particularly Tinariwen, while forging their own distinct path.

Driven by a deep sense of identity and the need to amplify the oppressed voices of the Kel Tamasheq (Tuareg) people, Tamikrest quickly gained recognition for their soulful melodies, poetic songwriting, and electrifying energy. While deeply rooted in traditional Tamasheq rhythms and Ishumar music, their sound also reflects the psychedelic depth of Pink Floyd, the rebel spirit of Bob Marley, and the raw intensity of rock and blues.

Their first two albums, Adagh (2010) and Toumastin (2011), showcased their ability to blend traditional Tamasheq rhythms with modern rock influences. With the addition of Paul Salvagnac for their third album, Chatma (2013), the band expanded its sonic palette, embracing a grittier, more powerful rock sound. Dedicated to the struggles of Saharan women, Chatma was widely celebrated as a landmark release in the Ishumar music movement, earning the Songlines Award for Best Album of the Year in 2013.

Their later albums, Kidal (2017) and Tamotaït (2020), further deepened their connection to Tamasheq traditions, carried by the raw intensity of blues-infused rock and hypnotic desert grooves. However, it is on stage where Tamikrest truly comes to life—delivering mesmerizing live performances that blend trance-like rhythms, psychedelic soundscapes, and unrelenting rock energy.

With extensive tours across Europe, Africa, North and South America, Japan, South Korea, and Australia, Tamikrest has become a global force in both African music and the international rock scene—a band that continues to bridge cultures and push musical boundaries while staying deeply rooted in their heritage.

Lineup:

Group size: 4-5 artists + 1 tour manager
• Ousmane Ag Mossa: acoustic and electric guitar, lead vocal
• Paul Salvagnac: electric guitar
• Cheikh Ag Tiglia: bass guitar and backing vocal
• Cédric Momo Maurel: drums and percussion
• Faris Hamidou: djembe and backing vocal
• Charles Sagnet: FOH sound engineer and tour manager