The Africa Channel (Sky channel 281) in association with record label Independiente have commissioned London based indie Phoenix Film & Television (http://www.phoenixmedia.co.uk/ ) to produce a brand new full length live concert and documentary focusing upon the music and story of freedom fighters turned rock stars “Tinariwen”. The Malian collective, formed in the camps of Tuareg rebels in West Africa are fast becoming one of the world’s most talked about alternative acts, and this film showing their distinctive style and incredible story is another example of The Africa Channel using their scheduling to bring inspiring and unique content to a UK audience.
The sold out concert, filmed live at London’s Shepherds Bush Empire in December 07, will also be released as a stand-alone DVD later in the year, and is expected to repeat the success of the album “Aman Iman” which brought the band to the attention of the world’s media.
Phoenix Film & Television, one of the UK’s leading music indie producers, were also commissioned to send a documentary crew “on-the-road” with the band during their recent European tour, documenting the incredible ascent of the band from exiled refugees to international rock stars. This uncompromising film will give an unparalleled insight into the mindset of these artists, furthering The Africa Channel’s remit to bring serious and quality programming from the continent to a UK audience.
Lawrence Francis, Head of Concept Development at Phoenix says: “This film will give viewers the chance to see the true story of this incredible bunch of people, not only educating about the troubles in West Africa, but showing how human spirit and music really can make a tangible political difference.”
Christopher Walsh, Head of Music for The Africa Channel UK also adds “Tinariwen are one of the most important artists in the world today, and by committing to placing African talent like this at the heart of our schedule we are continuing to show that the continent is alive and kicking with creativity that gets little or no coverage anywhere else on UK Television”.
