Website: http://www.etranfinatawa.com

Tart, gritty, dynamic and mystical music from Niger carries the listener to the Sahel, complete with a rocking camel ride and the eyes of the Woodabe.

Fascinating‚ unexpected‚ seductive‚ these are a few of the words fans use to describe the music of this unique ensemble from Niger. Etran Finatawa brings together musicians from Tuareg and Woodabe ethnic groups, integrating two cultural traditions through poetry, music and dance. Described by Afropop writer Derek Beres, "... (one must) give equal accolades to the incredible musicianship showcased on Etran Finatawa's international debut. The bluesy electric guitars are prevalent, though the focus remains on percussion, bass and the droning repetitiveness of superb chants and poetry. In short, this is a record one really feels. Producer Chris Birkett does an exceptional job at capturing the lush textures of the azakalabo (water-filled calabash), akayaure (metal rings on a metal plate, worn on legs) and the occasional lilt of the odiliri, a traditional flute.

At the 2004 edition of the Festival in the Desert (Essakane, Mali), two of the invited groups, Etran ('stars of the dunes'), and Finatawa ('tradition'), both of Niger, jammed together onstage in what turned out to be a ground-breaking performance. Ground-breaking because Finatawa represents the first musical group of Woodabe to perform and tour, and because although back at home the Woodabe and Tuareg are often at odds with each other over the need to share limited natural resources, this jam brought these two rival groups together in performance with such success that they are now touring worldwide as Etran Finatawa to critical acclaim.

The Tuareg, known for their love of poetry and music, and the Woodabe, known for their beauty, polyphonic singing, and dances, unveil a program that fascinates and intrigues audiences worldwide.

The Woodabe ('people of the taboo') are traditionally nomadic cattle-herders and traders. They are known for their beauty, elaborate forms of dress, and rich cultural traditions, celebrated in the film by Werner Herzog called "Herdsmen of the Sun". Their music is focused on polyphonic vocals which accompanies dancing in slow motion.

The Tuareg use the (violin) and tinde (drums), and more recently guitar, to animate their songs and dances. The guitar provides a driving rhythm along with handclapping and the tinde.

Together these artists paint a musical portrait of the Sahel and Sahara, landscapes that these people have inhabited for thousands of years. They sing about their nomadic lifestyle, liberty, love, and festivities that mark the passage of time in this stark yet intriguing corner of our world.

Veterans of tours throughout Africa, Europe, Australia, and east Asia, Etran Finatawa is primed to return to North America in the summer of 2010 to captivate new audiences.