Dub Station 26: Jah Shaka and Zion Gate Hi-Fi

"Shaka! Shaka! Shaka!" It is just past three in the morning when the crowd shouts the name of the Mighty Zulu Warrior. For half an hour, the English artist has been selecting his vinyl with slow gestures. The crowd pressing around him watches him take out his treasures, wrapped in plastic bags. He carried them in a battered blue suitcase, closed with worn straps. It is for him that the crowd has come in such numbers. Woe betide those who had not booked advance tickets: they stayed outside. And those who had their place still had to wait several hours before hearing the sound of Jah Shaka.

For before him, it was the Nantes crew Zion Gate Hi-Fi who played their selection. And you can't say they were just making up the numbers. Alternating nicely roots oldies and their new productions, Ras Abubakar's troupe warmed up the crowd. The Trabendo trembled when they chained, for long minutes, versions of Sister Racheda's I love Jah. The other sistas in the spotlight - notably Nelly Stharre - and the voices of Nassadjah and Prince on the mic did the rest. No doubt about it, Zion Gate is one of the very best French sounds. And the recognition Shaka gives them by playing on their gear is no accident.

When Jah Shaka finally takes the turntables, it is to launch a Bob Marley set. Redemption song to begin, then a ska version of One love, before moving into a dub version of Exodus. Nothing original, since that is how he starts most of his selections outside England. But, once again, the Zulu Warrior shows his ability to make us believe we are hearing these hits for the first time. And so off we go for several hours of dub. The volume and the number of bass frequencies have risen considerably. But those who heard Shaka in London during the Notting Hill Carnival quickly understood that he will not play as heavy away from his home turf. And, frankly, it is hard to complain. If only for the quality of his nyabinghi selection, which sent the crowd into a trance.

Rarely have so many people remained at the closing of a Dub Station at the Trabendo. And when Shaka ends his selection, unfortunately a bit rushed by the organisers, the whole hall applauds the artist at length before dispersing. Come on, patience, only a month to wait until the next Dub Station, this time with King Earthquake.