Tank & the Bangas, Sweet Crude
UW Memorial Union-Terrace 800 Langdon St., Madison, Wisconsin 53706
Free.
press release:Originating in New Orleans, Tank and The Bangas’ performances range from being “one of the most energetic shows you’ll ever see” to “a gospel tent in Mississippi.” Rummaging through their sound like a thrift store hippie, the band provokes musical references of rhythmic soul and spoken word among other genres such as rock, gospel, funk and folk. Combining the various musical techniques among the Bangas—coupled with the instilling play on lyrics from the lead vocalist—Tank and The Bangas have quilted a unique sound that singles them out as one of the most distinctive groups to come out of New Orleans.
The group has graced the cover of New Orleans’ OffBeat and won band of the year at the New Orleans Big Easy Awards. Additionally, they have opened for acts such as Lianne La Havas, PJ Morton, Galactic, Big Freedia, The Revivalist, Lyfe Jennings and The Soul Rebels.
Tank and The Bangas are Tarriona Ball (lead vocals), Merell Burkett (keyboards), Joshua Johnson (drums), Norman Spence (synth keys, bass) and Albert Allenback (alto saxophone, flute).
Tank and The Bangas recently released the music video for their song, “Quick.”
"Quick" by Tank & the Bangas
Additionally, the group will reissue their 2013 debut album, Thinktank, on limited edition colored vinyl. Fans can pre-order the LP here.
The release follows their unanimous win of 2017’s NPR Music “Tiny Desk Contest.” Of their music, Bob Boilen declared, “This band combines R&B with hip-hop’s poetry and rollercoaster storytelling, with a flair and alchemy that could only come from New Orleans.”