From rock music wrapped up in ancient rhythms, to mournful laments and blues, Touareg six-piece Tamikrest gave a memorable performance.

They may have been largely wearing traditional dress, but this was contemporary music, and unusually for a band of this ilk, female singer Wonou Walet Sidati took centre stage.

Surprisingly powerful were the more electric of the songs, which despite the density of the sound were hypnotic and soulful, and the lead guitar of frontman Ousmane Ag Mossa was compelling.

The band arrived on stage without fanfare, but the quality of the music deserves much celebration.

The vocals were not high in the mix, and instead added texture to the percussion-driven sound, whether it happened to be full drum kit, calabash, or hand drum.

As explained with passion (largely in French, which left many present wishing they had paid more attention at school), Tamikrest sing of the struggles of the Touareg people (in the Tamasheq language).

For example, the latest album, Chatma - Sisters - is dedicated to women, particularly Touareg women, the suffering of whom often goes unnoticed in times of conflict.

Tamikrest means 'gathering', and this was one of warmth, energy, and mutual understanding transcending language barriers.