-By Eric Feber

This third release from African group Tinariwen (means "empty spaces" in the band's native Tamashek language) is a wonder of otherwordly rock.

The group is made up of Touareg tribesmen, nomadic people who meander through Mali's desert region. Formed in the 1980s at a rebel camp, the group incorporates indigenous instruments and music bolstered by a cadre of roiling, pulsating electric guitars. Although the band sings about cultural pride, non violence and the struggle to exist in an unforgiving environment, members have also been influenced by Santana, Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones to create a hypnotic rock unlike any ever heard.

The group's output, created over five-tone scales, sounds like a blend of Arabic and African rhythms and melodies. Male lead vocalists render lyrics in Tamashek or French while engaging in spirited call-and-response with a bevy of hand-clapping female backing singers who routinely inject arresting ululating harmonies.

This album is not for the musical faint-of-heart. But for those craving an exotic sound rooted in Bo Diddley blues-rock guitar rhythms that constantly roll and tumble, Tinariwen will take one on a unique musical adventure.