Mdou Moctar - "Live at the Niger River"

An intimate performance from Mdou Moctar filmed at dawn along the Niger River. Mdou Moctar's new album 'Afrique Victime' out now on Matador Records. Order and stream the album here: mdou.ffm.to/af...
From Mikey Coltun:
Before it was decided that it was too unsafe for us to travel together outside the Niger capital, Niamey, we were planning to do concerts in villages throughout Niger, all with beautiful scenery. When Ahmoudou and I spent some time together at the beginning of the trip, we went location scouting in Niamey to see how we can achieve something similar while staying around the capital.
A friend of ours had taken us to a place on the outskirts of Niamey, "In the bush". This land was right on the Niger River: a river flowing through Guinea, Mali, Niger, and Nigeria. Brainstorming different locations for filming, we came up with the idea to film a few songs at this location as the sun was coming up one morning.
On the night before I departed Niger, we played a late concert, loaded everything into Mdou's car, packed in there all together, and dropped off the gear to the location about 30 minutes away. Mdou decided to sleep on location with the gear so none of it gets stolen. The rest of us woke up the next morning at 4am, got into the car, picked up breakfast at a bakery, and drove to the location.
We set up quickly as we didn't want to lose filming the sun coming up. We made a fire to keep us warm and also to keep the Tuareg tea brewing while we played. As we started playing “Tala Tannam” the sun came up and the two-colored Saharan bird, the pied crow, the symbol for Mdou Moctar, flew above us. Midway through the session we were greeted by a pack of goats coming towards us from who knows where. They stopped and listened for a bit. Totally spontaneous, as things usually are for the Mdou Moctar group. This session proved to be one of the most beautiful performances we've played together.
Credits:
Mahamadou Souleymane ‘Mdou Moctar’ : Lead Guitar, Vocals
Ahmoudou Madassane: Rhythm Guitar, Vocals
Mikey Coltun: Bass, Vocals
Souleymane Ibrahim: Calabash, Vocals
Recorded by: Mikey Coltun
Mixed and Mastered by: Seth Manchester at Machines With Magnets
Edited by: Sabrina Nichols
Mdou Moctar:
/ mdou_moctar
/ mdoumoctar
/ mdoumoctarofficial
www.mdoumoctar...
www.matadorrec...
Matador Records on the web:
www.matadorreco...
/ matadorrecords
/ matadorrecords​
/ matadorrecords
#MdouMoctar #AfriqueVictime

[@2handzzz]

Oh to be vibing with the squad on the river as the sun comes up. Joined by some goats even. I am having my morning coffee and am being transported to another place.

[@jacobgates1986]

In my tribe Ohkay Owingeh NM, USA, we bury our dead with the rising sun , when we are most peace to help send off our loved ones so they can be free and rise up with the sun. So in the morning I feel most alive, waking up with the rising sun knowing that I am most alive to wake up another day to enjoy beautiful music, along with watching the world transform from dark to light.

[@nbal5115]

بچ

[@rolferikbaklkk6613]

Im proud to be an Ohkay from muskogee…

[@vogelvogeltje]

⁠@@rolferikbaklkk6613 “Im proud of not standing up to an unjust war, and being a goodie two shoes, and squeaky clean good ol boy”

[@libralaw7359]

What a lovely tradition! Thank you for sharing.

[@-norsecode-]

​@@rolferikbaklkk6613Muskogee Nation 💗

[@abdoulwatamasheq2347]

It's so amazing to see people from all over the world sharing their love and sentiments here in this comment section. The beauty of this music reaches far and wide to every continent of this Earth. The mystical and ancestral vibration resonates in the souls of many people, mine included. Thank you Mdou moctar from the bottom of my heart for creating this beautiful music. #tuareg 😍🔥🎸

[@sharkamov]

Well said, my sentiments precisely! . . .🤘

[@libralaw7359]

ditto!!

[@Drivesfastlikescats]

Wonderfully expressed 🧡

[@thierryc3753]

Tout a fait d'accord , preuve qu'il reste encore de bonne choses en ce monde.

[@ili626]

I’m already starting to love this band. Just today I first heard them. This natural setting fits them well.. They provide great company

[@massinjacob506]

يحيا الشعب الامازيغي الكبير. تحيا اللغة الأمازيغية النيجر مالي موريطانيا المغرب الجزاير تونس ليبيا مصر تشاد السودان شعب واحد لغة واحدة

[@hanshendriksen72]

As usual, Mdou Moctar setting a new standard with this performance. Absolutely spectacular.

[@shalasalazar4930]

Indeed, wholeheartedly agree!

[@user-un3lf3ln7l]

Mr. Mdou is good and original, but they set the standard; kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKCzgYChqb12e6s

[@hanktheblesseddeejay]

The sound of the guitar looks like the sunset

[@omairsh8]

Perfect description! Acid tone

[@jochemloeve7604]

0:37 Tala Tannam 4:40 Bismilahi Atagah 10:55 Ya Habibti 15:09 Chismiten

[@tumblewheed5994]

There is absolutely no reason I should find this as intriguing as I do! Soul knows no nationalities or borders. I am entranced...

[@hopeclayburnsax9369]

This music and video should be prescribed as an alternative to blood pressure pills because I’m so chilled and a serene space listening to this.

[@Baghdadbatterymusic]

Imagine being that one person who disliked this. I honestly can't, it must suck to be them

[@sponkmcdonk3898]

I was at their concert and someone behind me was shitting on them. It's lame when people bring a "friend" who turns out to be a racist ignorant douchebag and feels the need to badmouth the band in public like that.

[@MrTicTics]

@@sponkmcdonk3898 some people are just miserable and they almost can't help themselves. If you can look past them being bitter, they're actually free marketing lol

[@lmg4378]

Hopefully it was somebody who thought thumb down means terrific!

[@BenedickHoward]

Shucks, I so miss West Africa, the desert festivals, the smiling faces, warm hearts, couscous, barbequed meats in the evenings and the camel trains swishing through the full moon light filled dunes. Mahalo from Hawaii.

[@ragaamedia]

These fantastic people are our brothers! Oromo, Afar, Somali, Sidama people of Ethiopia are your brothers. In Diredawa we have the same beats 🎧. Nice to meet you ❤❤❤

[@momofri6643]

Just when it couldn't get more perfect we see their friend brewing tea!

[@motorbikeTim1]

I wish I could upvote this every time I wwatch it. Im awe struck by the location.

[@bethwilliams7926]

Hypnotic and ethereal. I'm hooked.

[@markbutterfield2740]

My great honor to have seen them twice in concert. In Oregon!

[@TheFord1932]

Wow what a group. Can't stop listening to them. Please come to 🇦🇺 Australia.

[@jakemargerison9262]

Pretty sure they are coming to Aus in March 23'

[@aarondoyle96]

Hes coming mate, im seeing him in Brunswick Ballroom in melbs

[@ThouDailyBlab]

@@aarondoyle96 Just found them last week. As usual I missed them. Hope they come back...

[@markkennedy7404]

Also a late comer from Melbourne, enjoying the music.

[@rorymcclure]

This band changed my life

[@MegaAmoled]

this is the future

[@Yusufiano]

I played drums when I was like 9-10 years old. Now I am very inspired to play drums again

[@chrisgannuscio2217]

Good luck!!! Start playing, Brother! God bless you on your path!!

[@5thbassdrum]

Me too I got bored and almost gave up from the hurdles of the music business. Thank you Mdou mactar!

[@heraprince]

As the former wife of a N African, your music brings me comfort in my dark days. Love for the Sahara

[@hhalimbbouakka3532]

نتمنى لو تعيدو غناء اغنية توماس توماس جميلة جدا ،تخية الى ناس تمنراست ولاد بلادي ،انا من ولاية البيض وربي يحفظكم الفنانين

[@rebekah620able]

makes my ears feel so good

[@neilleach5249]

Thank you. Best wishes.

[@chelanoestaok9709]

Enjoying all the way from Hawaiian islands👏🏼🤙🏼🌴☀️

[@skeeterboombaty]

just discovered these guys. My mind is fucking BLOWN. Completely blown. Never heard of Berber blues either...just so excited because this art is beautiful.

[@lastmanstanding9389]

The beauty of an African dawn and mesmerizing music..

[@EsmondLyons]

The recording is fantastic, great mix by whoever did this remarkable job!

[@shysonofficial]

I seccond that

[@jho2646]

The bass player, according to the video description.

[@skyarubi]

And to think they used little Roland Cube amps!

[@balabunat]

We NEED such music nowadays. Maximum grounded, peaceful, simple...love it! Thank you guys, for what you are doing

[@brandenpatten]

This is incredible

[@brandenpatten]

Come to Minneapolis MN

[@margaretnesbeth593]

I love this, amazing setting.

[@bruceangel4459]

I can see your excellent work reflected in the eyes of the children. Their unscripted and spontaneous responses are the ultimate truth teller. Keep up the great work!

[@mengmar1]

It's refreshing to see a band enjoying their craft as much as these guys. Regards from Manchester

[@HeatherClarkafterdark]

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THESE GUYS!!!!

[@ibrahimabdoulaye1394]

Mdou moctar always magnificence of beautiful colors, sun's colors, music's colors, happiness color. Great artist.

[@rasta-moumou9749]

Perfect sitting my brothers....pure everlasting serinity comes with authentic vibes...wish I was there...

[@twinpeaks5564]

This is one of the most incredible things I have ever seen.

[@ericlangloislanglois7661]

I love u, i'll see u at Montreal the july 26

[@hannuback]

I love this stuff! I've just discovered your music and I have been listening to it a lot this week. I don't understand a word you're singing, but I feel you're at the core with your music - it comes from the heart. It's nice to see a performance like this, where you're just enjoying the music together. It's meditative, beautiful and there is joy and peace in it. Even the goats seem to like it! :)

[@MilkCheck]

As someone who has listened for awhile now, enjoy! Check out all their stuff it’s all golden

[@drychaf]

Must be a great feeling to be so fluent as this on an instrument. Lovely music under a spectacular sky.

[@gspona]

Sheer brilliance, pure magic! I don’t understand the lyrics but music like this will put you in a trance for sure!

[@5thbassdrum]

This is heavily spiritual 🙏

[@libralaw7359]

Fabulous!!! The music is amazing and the river is absolutely gorgeous!!

[@Facerip]

Such a unique and interesting band. Love it.

[@heraprince]

Unique for you

[@AzmeerDarulBarai]

Salam my favourite band! Peace be upon us all!

[@sharkamov]

*Fantastic music by Mdou Moctar!* 💓

[@tijanikidal11]

cooool songs

[@Amadeus451]

Always sounds so clean in every performance I've seen, this group is clearly dedicated to their craft. Never dropped a beat or hit a yellow note, awesome

[@MattPendles]

OMFG!! You guys are amazing!!! Please come to Adelaide, Australia!! So much love for you guys!! You guys need so much more followers than you have atm!! I mean, your sound and meaning are what the world needs to hear right now!! Please do another live version of Tarhatazed!! Would be greatly appreciated!! Everyone I introduce to this song absolutely loves it!! Much love Matt Pendles from Adelaide ❤️🙃

[@kirbykeough3366]

Listening here in Hawaii, your heartfelt music so very moving and beautiful! Mahalo nui!!!

[@johnnydeformed7123]

Super tight band! Beautiful voice, I don't know what he's singing about but I'm sure it means a lot. His guitar sounds like a sitar. I'm sure this is influenced by styles of music that I'm unfamiliar with, but there's something vaguely Appalachian folk about it. This evokes good feelings, when I hear this band, I'm just *gone.*

[@Svarthod1]

super

[@marinalvasofia4075]

Jesus vai vir

[@shalasalazar4930]

Truly one of the best bands in the world today. You're all so extraordinarily gifted. ✌🏽❤

[@omairsh8]

Ya Habibti is such a masterpiece

[@DriverFirst-547]

Soothing music. Something that is sorely lacking right now. Thank you.

[@YURAKAPTIV]

Been a fan for years and can't wait until the Athens show, definitely entering a trance that night.

[@tanirt-hassnaamalou3996]

Adorable musical team 😍❤️ ..big up Modou Moctar 🇲🇦🙏✔️

[@HamzaKab-]

Glad to see a moroccan with such a good taste 😂 3dbouna s7ab way way

[@robertochaves9305]

Muito massa

[@mariaflores-es2qz]

This music is highly spiritual. I'm from Chicago , and speak English this music moves me. Music is Gods highest form of praise , it's a universal language. Keep playing brothers God bless you all.

[@Claytone-Records]

Loved reading Mikey’s comments about this performance. Great performance piece, guys.

[@hounnontinarnaud3322]

the boss of bosses

[@yvanobam3902]

They made it through the wilderness 🥹

[@bikers_path]

Great session, great scenery, I especially loved the way you played Ya Habibti: even better than the album version!

[@user-xw6zi9fp6j]

ىفغزغ٤

[@omairsh8]

Agreed! Love that song

[@henrikeriksson6910]

Beautiful suroundings and music

[@AbubakarMouhamed-qi8mq]

🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@eleniphotos]

Merci beaucoup! Musique envoutante! J'ai toujours voulu aller au Niger, en Mauritannie et au Mali!

[@abdoulahinouh---officiel3451]

De cœur avec vous ✌️🎸🇳🇪🎸 Good Luck

[@charleshash4919]

Respect!

[@jennifermullins277]

Hello from southeastern Kentucky in the US. Thanks for the video and beautiful music!

[@williamridinger843]

Man I would so love to come and play with u gentlemen someday. Terrific flow and beauty vibe to this music. Timeless and ethereal. I love it!

[@shinji5967]

Look at that sun rise!; Whoo hoo!

[@darkranger116]

heck yes!!

[@travisthornton1792]

Man, Peter Jackson did some magic with that recovered Beatles footage

[@derekjesse2582]

I’m so mad at myself for not seeing them when they were in my state

[@paulusmarticus]

Wow. Thank you. Lifted my spirit today.

[@justgivemethetruth]

Someone is a media and marketing genius to show us a side of Africa that we've never seen before. Really great, thanks.

[@yvanobam3902]

That someone is Mikey Coltun, the producer and American bassist of the band 😉

[@justgivemethetruth]

@@yvanobam3902 Thanks Yvan. They're all fantastic. I wish them success, and very much that that success doesn't go to their heads. Fantastic music and videos.

[@christianepyrenees2281]

Video enchanteresse, idée magnifique que d'aller enregistrer là.... Rien de plus beau que d'allier votre musique avec la nature qui l'a inspirée, et de nous en faire profiter.... Un pur bonheur pour notre être, notre coeur grâce à vous 😊 🙏 🙏 🙏 💖🌴

[@khounabenhaoued4162]

BRAVO ♥️🔥🎸🎸🔥♥️

[@GLD516]

I’m looking forward to seeing this band in Brooklyn this summer.

[@bloosman1]

Beautiful.

[@dennis_johnson]

More power to you guys!

[@manuelalbertomarques4575]

Congratulations , this is Great! Thnaks you for your songs ,wish all the best for all .

[@andrewgoldbergs4474]

Just spectacular and natural..great backdrop and as always inspiring musicianship carries you away..

[@freethis222]

The sounds are so familiar, but the arrangement of them is so enchanting, I feel so at ease listening to this, like it's a harbinger of good.

[@bigaouanzeg6394]

Beautiful music 🎶🎵

[@DaoudaDico]

🎉😢❤ 3:04

[@DaoudaDico]

❤

[@freedarga2227]

Wow, sessioni opus est ut hoc Pura musica fruor ex tanto opere Amor et pax a Sudan 🇸🇩❤️❤️

[@observador3419]

Love you all from Brazil!

[@Millions_Baby]

Thank you so much mdou montar 🥰🥰🥰

[@abdoulahimohamedmijila4400]

Très bien mes frères Mdou et akhmoudou👍👍🇳🇪🇳🇪🇳🇪🇳🇪🌹🌹

[@scrubbingmonkeys2488]

Great job guys.....real entertainment

[@desequilibriosen6cuerdas]

🤟🏿👌🏿 Muy bueno, una maravilla, nos ha encantado a los que por aquí estabamos

[@Kastsiuchenka2Minsk]

молодец Мухтарчик, продолжай радовать нас новыми песнями

[@kenmilne2379]

Awesome again boys!! ❤ lovely sound !! ❤❤

[@rpcorp]

Incredibly beautiful and moving performance 🙏🏼🙏🏼💫

[@kakazak3934]

This is the most insane scenery I have ever seen.... Music genuine, players genuine....it is just perfect. I love you guys

[@martinhall932]

This is such a beautiful video... thank you Mdou and your band for sharing your vision. I could feel the spontaneity of the whole production, and then reading Mikey's synopsis confirmed it. With amazing sound quality like that in an outdoor setting, who needs studios?!

[@gabrielha]

So great, thanks for putting this into the world.

[@ibrhimist]

اغنيه جميله من أجمل الاغاني

[@user-gw3tc5iq6w]

Beautiful

[@shepopop]

Thé sound of the Sahara . Reminding me of Tirenawen