Imarhan emerged from southern Algeria’s close-knit Tuareg community in 2006. Fans of Tuareg rock greats Tinariwen will already be familiar with the quintet; Imarhan front man Iyad Moussa Ben Abderahmane (aka Sadam) is a cousin of Tinariwen bassist Eyadou Ag Leche, and he’s toured with the band to fill in for members who couldn’t go for conflict- or visa-related reasons.
On their three full-length albums for Berlin-based City Slang, Imarhan (“Those I care about”) sing predominantly in their native Tamasheq language and firmly embrace the musical traditions of their hometown of Tamanrasset, even as they branch out into other styles. Their third album, last year’s Aboogi, is titled after their rehearsal space and recording studio (in turn named for a type of traditional house in the region), and it weaves together light springing rhythms, sinuous vocals, and nimble guitar lines with global modern influences of rock, funk, psychedelia, and jazz. The quintet seamlessly absorb and integrate their guest stars, which on Aboogi include Sudanese singer Sulafa Elyas (who sings in Arabic on “Taghadart”), Super Furry Animals front man Gruff Rhys (who sings in Welsh on “Adar Newlan”), and several members of Tinariwen. The bluesy “Tamatidin” features one of the last recordings of poet, guitarist, and Tinariwen cofounder Mohammed Ag Itlale, aka Japonais, who passed away in 2021.
Aboogi is evocative and ever-changing, and it takes its soulful journey at an assured pace. “Achinkad” mixes joy and sorrow in a folktale allegory, while “Imaslan N’Assouf” is reflective and melancholy, with chiming guitars and deceptively soft backing vocals. Imarhan’s music acknowledges the grief and horror of poverty and colonialism, but it also celebrates resilience, the beauty of Algeria, and Imarhan’s collaborations with international artists. With Aboogi they present a multifaceted jewel that captures the current moment in every sparkle. This show at the Empty Bottle is part of Imarhan’s first U.S. tour since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it offers a great opportunity to catch the band in an intimate setting.
Imarhan The Arab Blues open. Tue 7/18, 9 PM, Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western, $22, 21+
