YOU don’t just listen to Natacha Atlas, you are bewitched by her haunting and unique voice.

When she roams on to stage in a full-length kaftan, with her effortless regal air, her feline presence is already captivating.

And that’s before she starts singing.

With a voice that can only be described as ethereal, she had everyone in the palm of her hand while she weaved us into the tapestry of her Arabic, Parisian, Afro blend of sounds.

Her set manages to conjur up heady spices and incense from traditional Middle Eastern bars, yet, at the same time, offer up Parisian cafes and rich coffee beans. The atmosphere is exotic, intimate and breathtaking.

Highlights of the night were Black is the Colour, where her voice excelled and was profoundly melancholy.

This flowed perfectly into Mon Amie La Rose, silky and as sweet as melting chocolate.

The real piece de resistance was as Natacha began to wind her sequined scarf around her waist. The anticipation was palpable as she slowly began her famous, sensual, belly dance with that feline spirit truly coming to the fore.

Support was provided by whimsical Spanish/English ensemble Clara and the Real Lowdown, whose jazz/folk sound made for a good warm-up.

The best song of their set was about the singer’s relationship with a snowman from her childhood, adventurous but doomed because he melted through her warmth.

Jewels Johnson