Concert Review: Tinariwen With BASIC (Cat's Cradle)

BY DREW DRAIN

Philadelphia's own BASIC, Chris Forsyth on guitar, Nick Millevoi on baritone guitar and drum machine, and Patrick Avery on percussion and electronics, delivered an electrifying set as the opening act for Tinariwen. BASIC's performance was marked by a dynamic fusion of rock, jazz, and funk, creating a rich and textured soundscape that immediately captivated the audience. Their tight musicianship and engaging stage presence set the tone for the evening, perfectly complementing the hypnotic desert blues of Tinariwen. Their original compositions showcased both technical prowess and emotive depth. Look for an upcoming full length LP from BASIC titled This Is BASIC on September 6.

Attending a Tinariwen concert at the Cat's Cradle was a mesmerizing experience, blending the mystique of Saharan blues with the intimate atmosphere of a renowned music venue. From the moment the Tuareg musicians took the stage, their presence commanded attention, draped in traditional robes and turbans, transporting the audience to the vast expanses of the desert.

The band's setlist was a well-curated journey through their extensive discography, featuring both classic hits and tracks from their latest album. Each song was a tapestry of hypnotic guitar riffs, rhythmic handclaps, and soulful vocals, creating a soundscape that was both haunting and uplifting. The Cat's Cradle, known for its stellar acoustics, captured the nuances of Tinariwen's unique sound, allowing every note to resonate deeply with the crowd.

Highlights of the evening included spellbinding renditions of "Amassakoul" and "Sastanàqqàm," where the interplay between the electric guitars and traditional instruments showcased the band's virtuosity. The audience was visibly entranced, swaying to the rhythms and occasionally breaking into spontaneous dance, drawn by the infectious energy of the performance.

The intimate setting of the Cat's Cradle added a layer of connectivity between the band and the audience. The small venue allowed for a more personal interaction, with moments where band members exchanged smiles and nods with fans, enhancing the communal feel of the event. Tinariwen's music, rooted in themes of freedom, resistance, and cultural identity, resonated powerfully in this setting, making the performance not just a concert, but a shared cultural experience.

In summary, Tinariwen's concert at the Cat's Cradle was an unforgettable evening of musical brilliance, cultural immersion, and communal joy. It was a testament to the band's enduring appeal and the timeless power of music to bridge cultures and create profound connections.

SET LIST
"Azawad"
"Kud Edazamin"
"Cler Achel"
"Imidiwan Win Sahara"
"El Ghalem"
"Nànnuflày"
"Amassakoul N’Tenere"
"Anemouhagh"
"Imidiwan Winakalin"
"He Layla"
"Madjam Mahikamen"
"Tamatant Tilay"
"Toumast Tincha"
"Timadrit in Sahara"
"Tiwàyyen"
ENCORE
"Ittus"
"Assàwt"
"Sastanàqqàm"
"Tis Metten"

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DREW DRAIN

Andrew (Drew) Drain is originally from Point Pleasant, WV, and he now resides in Chapel Hill, NC with his daughter. Drew works as a financial risk management professional to pay the bills, but his real passion is photography. He started taking photos of his daughter playing soccer as a way to resist the urge to coach her from the sidelines. Time behind the camera developed into a love for photography that he has paired with his love for sports and live music. Follow Drew’s Instagram, @Drew.Drain.Photo or his MaxPreps galleries, to check out more of his work or contact him if you need photos of your favorite athlete or performer.

Read Drew's posts here.