The group Amanar formed in 2005, under the direction of Ahmed Ag Kaedi. Ama… Read Full Bio ↴The group Amanar formed in 2005, under the direction of Ahmed Ag Kaedi. Amanar rose to fame locally in Kidal through hard work and perseverance – sometimes lugging their material by foot when necessary, utilizing megaphones when lacking the proper material. The origin of the name Amanar (the Tamashek word for the constellation Orion) comes from when the band had to rehearse through the night until the early hours, when the stars were high in the sky.

The contemporary sound of Kidal, Amanar plays an original interpretation of classic Ishumar guitar that forces one to move, incorporating wailing guitar solos and frenetic rhythms. That is not to say however there isn't a heavy subject manner at hand. As an artist, Ahmed Ag Kaedi's lyrics are imbued with a responsibility to the listeners, particularly the youth. These are conscious lyrics that are concerned with education, development, and "agnah" (respect for tradition) – "the real rebellion today," Ahmed explains.

At a moment when many artists are looking to the exterior, Amanar looks to the people of Kidal and Mali foremost. They've played throughout Mali, from Kidal to Kayes, including their debut this year at Timbouctou's Festival au Desert.