Album Review: Bombino - Nomad

It may just be that West African music is more popular in the western world now than it has ever been before; seriously good crossover artists blending elements of modern rock music with their own musical traditions are becoming recognised for their considerable talents. Niger's Bombino – a Tuareg bluesman – is the latest name on music lovers' lips and Nomad proves he's worthy.

The guitar playing of Omara 'Bombino' Moctar is the centre-point of Nomad, there's no doubt about that, and he really is a stunning player. In no way is his style of blazing up and down the fret board typical of modern rock music, but the flair with which he does it is exquisite. Through Nomad his playing seems irrepressible; fast, tuneful, gritty, rhythmic and just so very proficient. Dan Auerbach continues his brilliant production track record, ensuring there's a liveliness that pumps through this record and that the spirit of Bombino's music is kept entirely unbridled. There are plenty of small intricacies – like the pedal steel in the background of closer Tamiditine – that you'd not expect without external help; thankfully Auerbach's input is consistently tasteful.

The loping groove of Amidinine, the complexly contrasting rhythms of Ahulakamine Hulan, the aggressive Azamine Tilade and the chirpy, airy Imidiwan all show the divergent styles and musical moods of Bombino. Some may consider the intrinsic language barrier too much to get beyond, but if the music doesn't speak to you then maybe you're best leaving this record for those who are moved by its assorted qualities. Nomad is the sound of a hugely gifted musician who's been placed into the right hands and it's simply brilliant.