When the doors open the Bataclan is not packed but it will fill in the course of minutes, even if the floor is opened only for VIP's (who sometimes are content with sipping their trendy drinks with the common folk in the pit).

To bridge the wait At The Close Of Every Day plays a short set mixing the American Music Club and Will Oldham. At first likeable but later slightly soporific. They end with a more rhythmical piece played in homage to 16 Horsepower.

Because yes, this evening does indeed belong to Sixteen Horsepower... we are awaiting the concert of the year. This tour through Europe, which follows the release of the Olden compilation features the original three-piece line-up on stage. David Eugene Edwards (on vocals, guitar and bandoneon), Jean-Yves Tola (drums) and Pascal Humbert (bass guitar and double bass)... A symbolic tour to celebrate the sound of 16 Horsepower and a ten-year career. To dispel the rumours of separation and to confirm that their side-projects, Woven Hand and Lilium, weren't more than vehicles of their creativity. To prove that the time which had passed hadn't affected either their talent or their urge to play together.

Three guitar chords and the sound of 16 Horsepower springs. The set begins with " Strong man " with only DEE on guitar, joined then by the standing bass and the drums for an immediate ascent in power. It is immediately followed by the old faithful "Horse head", the next link in the chain, and it is the start of 90 minutes during which the tension will not decrease, not even during the magnificent ballads.

Not always very well suited, this time the Bataclan's room turns out to be perfect for the trio. The often-dismal lighting is now set-up and operated more than adequately and beautiful opalescent lights halo the musicians. Whereas DEE is glued to his stool as usual, his arms and legs shaken sometimes in jolts and jerks, Pascal Humbert is bustling about. He shakes his bass in all directions, making big movements with it in the direction of the audience, as if he wants to throw notes towards us, whilst giving the strings of his bass shock treatment.

Jean-Yves Tola too, quieter behind his drum kit, seemed to have a great time playing, often smiling at DEE who got up repeatedly at the beginning of the concert to kick his amp because of a technical problem... one which was not perceptible in the hall but which required a change of material all the same.

From the inescapable rhythm of "Slow Guilt Trot" and "American Wheeze" to the lament of "Prison Shoe Romp" or "Phyllis Ruth", there is not a moment of respite for our attention, we are all ears. Their secrets are long intros to immerse us in their universe and the voice of DEE to captivate us. Their music irradiates our skin and soul because of their talents.

The first encore is electrifying with "South Pennsylvania Waltz" and "Brimstone rock" and the second encore is magnificent with DEE solo with his banjo for a superb rendition of a traditional piece, an amazing version of " Dead Run" and to finish a purifying "For Heaven's Sake".

Thank you for Clapping? Hats off to Sixteen Horsepower!

By David from Froggy Delight, translation by TYFC.