Nicky Bomba, Front Man and Co-founder, Melbourne Ska Orchestra
Keep it simple. Be yourself. Follow your dreams ...
From early beginnings (simply) attempting to break a world record for the largest number of horn players on stage at once, the Melbourne Ska Orchestra has activated many a wide smile and shake of the hips since its birth in 2003. This year, the group celebrates its tenth anniversary, have released a new album and return to Byron Bay Bluesfest this March to mesmerise the crowd with its infectious sound. Conductor and founder of the ensemble, Nicky Bomba is a talent of a musician, employing his love of ska, reggae and mento across his band Bomba, as the drummer and percussionist for John Butler Trio, in his solo project Planet Juice, and the Melbourne Ska Orchestra. If you see dancing as a compulsory part of each Bluesfest experience, head along to see this big band when it plays on Sunday March 31. The Weekend Edition took five with Nicky in the lead-up to this momentous festival to chat inspirations and weekend essentials.
How do you like to start your weekend?
I don’t have weekends as such. My life is a constant morphing of ambiences and varied activities. Sometimes it feels like a constant weekend.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Saturday morning?
Wake up very slowly, and quietly, and kiss my love.
How do you like to unwind?
Oh you know … a bit of music, dancing and romancing, extended dinners and fishing.
What are your essentials for a well-spent weekend?
For me, it’s a combination of great gigs, creative moments and getting re-energised by nature and romance.
What’s something you’ve been meaning to do on the weekend but haven’t got around to yet?
I really need to clear out my garage and get rid of old stuff.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday evening?
Play in front of 10,000 people and join in the celebration of music.
What are you looking forward to next weekend?
Playing in front of 10,000 people and joining in the celebration of music!
What are you reading at the moment?
Lyrics to some new songs.
What inspires you?
Life, love, good rhythms, great melodies, love.
What was your childhood dream?
I wanted to be a park ranger.
What has been your greatest achievement?
Getting the balance of life and love right.
What is success to you?
A sense of peace and knowledge that I’m doing the best I can.
What are your words of wisdom?
Live in the moment. Love the wonder of life. Keep it simple. Be yourself. Follow your dreams. Eat well. Love strong. Live long.
FAVOURITE WEEKEND SPOT TO:
Perk up … Ovens River, Victoria.
Relax … On the balcony of my house.
Dine … Freeburgh Station.
Indulge … with YATB.
Shop … Bright fishing store.
Catch-up … Coral Lee, Bright, Victoria.
Be inspired … In front of my stereo.