Antibalas

• Genre: Afrobeat
• Hometown: New York
• Antibalas Website

About

In the spirit of African icon Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, this fourteen-plus piece ensemble drops African roots, straight out of NYC. Their Big Band arrangement incorporates all the elements of jazz and Funk-influenced Highlife -- the genre formally known as Afrobeat, a term created by Fela's movement. Antibalas, which means "anti-bullets" or "bullet-proof," stand behind the same revolutionary and anti-capitalist beliefs. Unlike Fela, besides an occasional chant or speech, they do so almost entirely without vocals. The history of Afrobeat speaks for itself and Antibalas' dedication to the cause is truly enlightening. The members come from various cultures and professions such as teaching, design, sports, and spiritual healing.