Nicky Bomba

Nicky Bomba

Fresh from a world tour including two weeks in the hills of Jamaica, Nicky Bomba returned to Australia to hit the road for his new solo album Planet Juice. It all started on September 5th at Reggaetown Festival in Cairns, where 'multi-instrumental king Nicky Bomba and his Reggaetown All Stars stole the show' said The Cairns Post.

Nicky will be performing in different configurations around the country with regular band Bomba (with brother Michael on keys), or Solo with Allstar random guests. Continuing the trail of wicked rhythms and funky-reggae mayhem, he will be playing fresh songs from his new album Planet Juice, along with the sweet live Bomba favourites and some old school mash ups.

Nicky debuted his song, which has been written for the campaigners in the south western old growth forests at The Republic Bar. Having been a solid supporter of the cause for many years, the new track 'Florentine' follows previous track 'Hold Your Ground' donated in 2006. The lyrics in 'Florentine' are fantastic, soothing, informative and yet still holding popular musical value.

Nicky Bomba has had a massive year so far starting with the headline spot on New Years eve in Fed Square, Melbourne conducting the infamous 30 piece Melbourne conducting he infamous 30 piece Melbourne Ska Orchestra, completing his solo album, performing in Polynesia, United States, Canada, UK and Europe, shooting a film clip in Jamaica and returning to partake in the massive Garma festival in Arnhem Land.

Mix all this in with becoming the new drummer for the John Butler Trio, receiving an International Park Ranger Ambassador award and appearing on the front cover of the 2009 Melbourne White pages! Nicky Bomba is on fire!

Nicky Bomba is definitely someone to watch out for with his amazing raw energy and charismatic performances.

Interview with Nicky Bomba

How did it feel to hear your song played all over the airwaves?

Nicky Bomba: I remember the first time it happened and the grin I had. Still feels the same.


Did you have any pre-conceived ideas about the music industry?

Nicky Bomba: Just that change is the only constant. I think if you find a sweet balance it can be one of the best occupations ever.


Do you write your own songs? What's your inspiration?

Nicky Bomba: Yes I do. I love the creative process. I get inspired by lots of things...experiences, hearing a wicked groove, the feeling of creativity, my travels, books, melodies, articles, phrases, people...the list continues.


What music/artists do you listen to when you are not playing your own?

Nicky Bomba: Ethnic music, James Brown, Old school reggae, Stevie Wonder.


What's next? Tour/Album/Single?

Nicky Bomba: In the middle of touring my first solo album Planet Juice around Australia which is a lot of fun. We'll release a new single soon but the cycle usually goes... Write songs/ record/ create album/ tour / earn enough to start it all again.


Was there a moment you contemplated throwing in the towel?

Nicky Bomba: Yeah a couple of times, usually when the energy expended doesn't translate. Touring a six piece band with two crew and having flights/ ground transport/ accommodation/ advertising/ wages to cover and then only a handful of people turn up to a gig, that can knock you around


Do you prefer performing live or recording?

Nicky Bomba: I need both to be complete. They feed each other


What/who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

Nicky Bomba: I grew up in family dance band atmosphere. I was playing drums at the age of six.


What is the biggest challenge you have faced along the way to your musical success?

Nicky Bomba: Keeping a positive healthy attitude when the frustrations kick in. Success is relative anyway but I still feel I have a long way to go.


What's a typical day like?

Nicky Bomba: Make sure I bless the day in the morning and be thankful for my life and health, and then it's a matter of enjoying whatever is on the agenda. Could be touring/recording/writing/fishing/walking/chilling I like to go to bed happy day long.


What has been your favorite part of becoming a music artist?

Nicky Bomba: Creating my own music, performing live and connecting with audiences, travelling- seeing the world.


If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?

Nicky Bomba: Had a great time making an album with Joe Camilleri (Limestone) but I'd dig to do some stuff with Aston( Family Man) Barrett and Toots Hibbert.


Are you single? What do you look for in a partner?

Nicky Bomba: I am seeing a sweet beautiful gypsy at the moment and enjoying the journey, being in the here and now. I think someone who resonates at a similar frequency with a natural understanding of how you roll.


Do you have a website fans can visit?

Nicky Bomba: www.nickybomba.com


Can you tell us 5 things required for a happy healthy & enjoyable life?

Nicky Bomba: good food
good friends
a love of life (and yourself)
respect nature
compassion


What message would you like to say to your fans?

Nicky Bomba: Jah in Every Moment (appreciate the present- seek the best)


What is the story behind the bands name?

Nicky Bomba: Nicky Bomba is a nick name that stuck since my teenage years.


60 Second Quiz
Full Name: Nicholas Publius Victor Josef Caruana the 4th
Nickname(s): Nicky Bomba
Star Sign: Virgo
Music Talent: Drums/guitar/vocals
Favorite Food: Ethiopian food
Favorite Film: Barbarella
Favorite Actor: Will Farrell
Pet: Chickens
Describe yourself in 3 words: Happy, Creative, Positive
Best Feature: Optimism
Worst Feature: Too Analytical
Person You Would Most Like to Meet: Dalai Lama
Hobbies/Interests: Nature/Fishing/Romancing
First Job: Musician
Are you a Pub, Bar or Club kind: Organic funky little reggafied Cafe by a freshwater River on a mountain overlooking the ocean.
What Can You Never Leave Home Without: My sense of adventure.
What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning: The blessing of life.