It’s one of those things that triggers mental tics, trying to rationalise the seemingly spontaneous, gentle fingerpicking of Bombino’s right hand while absorbing the masterful licks projected through the PA. The dynamic didn’t waiver throughout the entire set, kicking into overdrive at times and locking into watertight grooves in an instant.
It was the final stop in the Taurag singer-guitarist’s maiden Australian visit, garnering acclaim at Falls and Sydney Festival in the weeks prior. Bombino’s three-piece backing band were unified as a rhythm section, often acting as a pedestal for the perpetual guitar soloing happening front and centre. The guitar was above and beyond in the mix, dwarfing even Bombino’s vocals, sung in Tamasheq. Bassist Kildjate Moussa Albade translated interstitial French banter as Bombino tapped his heart in appreciation.
The comparisons to Hendrix are kinda justified, yet there is more common ground with the melodic wander of Knopfler, or something like the paradox of danger and restraint exercised by Nels Cline at his most unhinged. Desert rock of the Saharan variety was the order of the night, imbuing with bluesy jam elements, ramping up the tempo with uncanny ease, even dropping into dance-ready reggae at points. The sway of Azamane Tiliade, taken from last year’s Dan Auberch-produced Nomad, was a joyous highpoint. The deceptively calm melodic noodling was compounded by Corey Wilhelm’s frenetic yet controlled drum work.
BY LACHLAN KANONIUK
Loved: The moments of pure synchronicity between band members.
Hated: Missing out on his outdoor festival appearances over New Years.
Drank: One Sunday night cap.
