Imarhan take to the stage at a ridiculously early time tonight meaning that I miss the first couple of tracks as I've been visiting my dad in hospital. The reason for the early start (as I find out later) is because they're playing two short sets with an intermission in between.
Obviously, Tinariwen are a comparison as they play a similar Tuareg style of desert blues. Rolling, funky grooves and blues licks with the odd electric moment combine with hypnotic vocals to mesmerising effect. They aren't as raw as Tinariwen, they are a much gentler experience and softer, soulful numbers such as 'Okcheur' and 'Tindjatan' really soothe the soul. Serene desert evenings are brought to life by the music but this is probably more tranquil than the reality. 'Achinkad' starts off gentle but midway through is transformed into dirty blues played with a real vengeance.
After the intermission, 'Tahabort' is stomping blues with some excellent guitar work reminiscent of Mdou Moctar which really gets the crowd going. The four voices together are powerful, hypnotic and add authority to the music. One member usually takes the lead and the others follow in a call and response which is captivating. There is a togetherness and brotherhood beween the members of the band which helps when they are constantly required to interact with each other. 'Derhan N'Oulhine' has some anthemic guitar work which brings to mind '80s Celtic rock like Big Country or Simple Minds. The guitar playing is excellent throughout and brings to mind how Mdou Moctar marries classic guitar heroics with African blues. Some tracks result in extended jams and the use of percussion gives them an atavistic feel. This is when they're at their most dancefloor friendly too. The electric freakout towards the end of the encore is glorious. Excellent.
Imarhan ****
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