Mdou Moctar – Live in Niamey, Niger

In winter 2020, Mdou Moctar met up in Niamey, the capital of Niger, to record a few songs in anticipation of the release of Afrique Victime (May 21st on Matador Records). They were staying on the outskirts of town at a friend’s home. One day, they quietly set up in front of the house to film a few songs. Despite the relative isolation, the noise of the band inevitably attracted a crowd. What started as the four of them simply playing a few songs for a camera turned into a three-night run of rowdy concerts, bringing in hundreds of eager listeners. Each night, kids from all over the city would line up at the door, rushing over after their final evening prayer. These performances were completely spontaneous and wholly unplanned. Thanks to the audience in Niamey, Mdou Moctar was able to capture the spectacular energy of a typical Niamey concert for viewers to enjoy!