★★★★★
Nigerien artist Bombino has a knack for combining the evocative desert blues/rock of the Tuareg tradition with his incredible skill as both musician and storyteller, creating albums that transcend language and cultural differences.
On his latest release, Azel, Bombino has created something truly special. Combining elements of reggae with a ‘sunnier’ form of Tuareg blues, Bombino is forging his own brand of music. The new sound feels very clean and lively, as though the grit of the desert has been given a new shine.
The band behind Bombino is tighter than ever before, and this results in new levels of energy. Where previous releases felt as though you were sitting in on a jam session, Azel contains an excitement, as if for the first time Bombino is playing music just for you.
Bombino’s musical skill shouldn’t be understated; he makes his guitar shift and sing like the desert sands. From the acoustic beauty of ‘Inar’ to the very embodiment of the Sahara on the incredible ‘Iyat Ninhay / Jaguar’, each song has a delightfully intoxicating style.
A powerful and beautiful album, Azel covers everything personal to Bombino, from childhood memories to the decay and destruction of his culture. It is undoubtedly Bombino’s best work to date.
Bombino’sAzelis out now through Partisan/Cooking Vinyl.
