Antibalas

Antibalas

Early Show | $75 Main Room Seating – $30 Main Room Standing/Bar Seating

Antibalas, the Brooklyn-based musical collective known for its powerful Afrobeat sound, was conceived by Martín Perna in Mexico City and formed in New York in 1997. Drawing early members from the Dap-Kings orbit, the group quickly developed a distinct identity rooted in politically charged Afrobeat, deep grooves, and expansive horn arrangements.

Their early years were spent performing in alternative spaces across New York, building a following before establishing a long-running residency in Tribeca. With the self-release of Liberation Afrobeat Vol. 1 in 2000, Antibalas launched an international touring career, appearing at major festivals including Glastonbury, Montreux, and Newport Jazz.

Over the years, the band has released a series of acclaimed albums, including Who Is This America, Security, and Fu Chronicles, the latter earning a Grammy nomination for Best World Music Album. Members of Antibalas also contributed to the Tony Award-winning Broadway production FELA!, further extending the group’s cultural impact.

Continuing to evolve, the band recorded new material in Brooklyn, culminating in Hourglass (2025). Known for their dynamic live performances and collaborative reach, Antibalas has worked with artists including Angelique Kidjo, Mark Ronson, and The Roots, remaining a vital force in global music.

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