Friday, January 23, 2009

The Macrotones

So when a band lists as their influences The Budos Band, Fela Kuti, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, the Daktaris, Antibalas, Nomo, and the El Michels Affair, I don't have to scratch my head long trying to figure out if I'm going to like them. I'll take one please, super-sized. And when the band is a (semi-) local band out of Boston, I've got to throw out some kind words for them to help spread the beat.

Their name is The Macrotones, an eleven piece outfit that's got a macro-sound, as in large, thick, and especially prominant. Like many of the groups they mention as influences, they pump out an instrumental, afro-beat inspired, funk sound that will get your booty shaking. While you certainly get the sense that Fela's spirit is lingering in the air, there are also dashes of good ol' American funk thrown in for good measure. Tight horns, funky basslines, all sorts of percussion - certainly a tasty recipe.

Although I haven't had the pleasure, I'm guessing that experiencing these guys first-hand would be quite an experience. If you're in the Somerville area, check them out at Johnny D's in Davis Square and let us know about the show.




Become their friend on MySpace.

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Antibalas - Rat Race (Live Bob Marley cover) : Live at the 9:30 Club 4-4-07

4 comments:

Unknown said...

I was at the show at Johnny Ds on Sunday - they burned the place down. There were a bunch of people on the dance floor AND a bunch in the seats. I picked up Wayne Manor, too, and got a sticker of a Tank with a trombone coming out of it. If you get a chance, do see them. You will not regret it.

Sean said...

Sweet! Thanks for the concert report Cornelius. I don't make it into the city that often, but I'm going to try and get in and see them on one of their upcoming dates.

Ashwin Sodhi said...

any chance you'd be willing to hook up the Antibalas Rat Race file once more?

Sean said...

Ashwin,

Simply follow the link to the show and you can download the whole thing.