Ahead of his performance in the First Avenue mainroom, Bombino visited The Current once again to perform live in-studio and to chat with host Jade about his new album, Azel, produced by Dave Longstreth of the Dirty Projectors.

With the help of a translator, Bombino — aka Omara Moctar — explains that the unique "Tuareggae" rhythm that shines through in his songs is the result of simply being in tune with his guitar.

And not only is Bombino giving his guitar a voice, but he's giving the Tuareg community a voice through his connection with the instrument and his travels. Bombino has become somewhat of an ambassador for the community, for which he is honored.

Songs Performed

"Tihegren" / "Emé"
"Akhar Zaman (This Moment)"
"Iyat Ninhay / Jaguar (A Great Desert I Saw)"

"Iyat Ninhay / Jaguar (A Great Desert I Saw)" and "Akhar Zaman (This Moment)" are off Bombino's album Azel, out now via Partisan Records. "Tihegren" is an unreleased song.

Hosted by Jade
Produced by Lindsay Kimball
Engineered by Mike DeMark
Web feature by Leah Garaas
Visual by Nate Ryan

Gallery

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