Antibalas

Originally inspired by Fela Kuti’s Marxist-with-a-monster-groove stylings, the dozen-plus Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra from New York is now world famous for its hot music (and equally incendiary political message). Antibalas weaves a fascinating tapestry of Latin, jazz, funk, reggae and soul into kinetic performances featuring dazzling horn lines and gutsy guitar. Their funk is so deep and organic that they don’t need to do any sampling: just check out their eighth scorcher of a CD, Security. The band’s combination of highlife, jazz, funk, and traditional West African rhythms coalesce into sultry, strutting, utterly mesmerizing dance grooves that are intricately woven arrangements of multiple brass, percussion, bass and shiny guitar lines that shimmer with tropical heat. Antibalas have played with – and learned from – the Afrobeat originals, and their music is utterly authentic. They have been brilliant on previous performances, and we’re delighted to bring them back for another barnburner of a show.
“Its live show is an irresistible and uplifting experience.” –Time Out
“Antibalas explodes onstage where the members work themselves, and their audiences, into a frenzy.” –The New Yorker
“These unabashed Fela worshippers are also first-rate musicians who know how to let a groove simmer until it’s time to make it boil.” –Boston Phoenix
“A treasure trove of eclectic beats, energetic sounds, political musings and agreeable voices that come together in a perfect musical statement.” –Urb