This past Saturday I went to see Tinariwen at the Bataclan in Paris.

Lo’Jo, the French group who helped setup the Fesitval in the Desert with Tinariwen and others a few years back, were the openers. They were actually quite impressive. Normally I find their music a bit hit or miss, but they proved that they’re great live and that the ‘hits’ are solid. Definitely a unique sound.

By the time Tinariwen got on stage the crowd was ready to rockout. Their set was great and featured lots of songs, most of them extended and changed as live versions should be.

The only downside was Tinariwen’s lead singer, Ibrahim. I know he’s a chilled-out guy but he seemed really subdued.. like somebody had stuck him with a few shots of morphine before the show. There was something strange about having his band members dance around him and engage the crowd as he just stood there in the shadows, never cracking a smile, almost whispering into the mic.

Ibrahim did finally smile when Robert Plant and Justin Adams surprised us by showing up on stage. We were treated to a double-encore of Led Zeppelin hits.. surreal. Robert Plant is looking worse for wear these days but he can still hold it down, especially when he’s flanked by electric guitar playing Touaregs in robes and turbans.

And in case you’re wondering what the Plant-Tamashek connection is: they met at the original Festival in the Desert back in 2003. Plus, their music has a lot in common… hear for yourself below.

Tinariwen – Aldachan Manin (live at the Festival in the Desert)
Led Zeppelin – Whole Lotta Love