Afropop Worldwide

Saturday, July 25, was a scorching hot day at New York's Central Park SummerStage, but things got even hotter when Bombino bombed the stage with explosive Tuareg guitar-driven rock from Niger. The fact that the group was full of energy and vigor was quite a feat considering that they had just arrived from Calgary, Canada where they performed the day before. After opening sets by Fantastic Negrito and Young Fathers, the crowd was primed and ready for the main event, and Bombino and his four-piece combo delivered. Bombino is a remarkable guitarist on record, but it's something else to watch him play live. For those who weren't in attendance to see some Tuareg guitar shredding, you can enjoy the next best thing, as portrayed in our photo essay below. All photos by Atane Ofiaja.

Bombino and his band backstage before the show

Bombino takes to the stage