Nicky Bomba

Nicky Bomba has already forged a name for himself in the Australian music scene as the front man and songwriter for reggae band Bomba, not to mention through numerous collaborations with other renowned musicians. Now embarking on a more intimate musical journey, Nicky Bomba’s solo performance at The Corner Hotel this evening encapsulates why this was a necessary step for him to take.

Not one to shy away from the spotlight, Bomba’s warm smile lights up the room as he walks onstage and his delight to be performing tonight is obvious for all to see. After many years doing so, it is remarkable to see he still finds much pleasure from bringing music to the people. Bomba reiterates the essence of what music is and that which is so often lost in the industry today – it is about expressing oneself and furthermore forging a relationship between people through music.

Bomba is supported this evening by a backing band comprised of three percussionists - Jose, Dave and Elvis - along with his brother Michael on keyboard. He employs a montage of drums within the performance, the djembe, serdu and dun duns namely. The musical concoction we are presented with is a kaleidoscope of reggae, funk and a bit of everything in between; ultimately the result of travelling from exotic place to place throughout his life.

With the crowd unanimously joining him in vocal sing-a-longs, Bomba incorporates the audience within his collaborative effort. “I’m always aware of the active energy of a crowd. Believing in the moment and kind of steering that spontaneous beast can result in something really special.” And something special was certainly the result tonight. Midway through his colourful set, Bomba brought the music to the audience, literally. Accompanied by one of his percussionists, he drummed his way through the crowd which proceeded to a “drum-off” between the two taking place in the middle of the room. Nicky Bomba has an ability to make the audience feel as if they are not merely a part of the crowd but rather a part of the whole collaboration. His energy is infectious; one is compelled to dance along with the exotic rhythms.

From picking up his first drumstick at the age of six, Nicky Bomba has come a long way on this musical journey of his. No doubt, he still has further to go.

This tour coincides with the release of Nicky Bomba’s “first” album Jah in the Moment’

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