Tank and the Bangas is an electrifying New Orleans band known for their unique blend of funk, soul, hip hop, and jazz, led by the dynamic Tarriona "Tank" Ball. Bursting onto the scene after winning NPR's Tiny Desk Contest, they continue to captivate audiences with their genre-defying sound and vibrant live performances, solidifying their place as a major force in modern music.
Tank and the Bangas is a dynamic band from New Orleans, formed in 2011. With an electrifying fusion of funk, soul, hip hop, jazz, and spoken word poetry, the band quickly emerged as a distinctive musical force. The core members include Tarriona "Tank" Ball (lead vocals, spoken word), Joshua Johnson (drums, musical director), Norman Spence (bass, keyboards), and Albert Allenback (alto saxophone, flute).
The origins of Tank and the Bangas trace back to an open mic night at the Black Star Cafe in New Orleans, where the members converged in 2011. Before leading this vibrant band, Tank had gained recognition by winning National Poetry Slam championships. The group released their debut album "Think Tank" independently in 2013, which set the stage for their future successes.
The band's breakthrough came in 2017 when they won NPR's Tiny Desk Contest, standing out among over 6,000 other entries. Their Tiny Desk performance went viral, accumulating over 14 million views on YouTube. This exposure led to a contract with Verve Forecast Records, marking a significant development in their career.
Known for their vibrant live performances and genre-blending sound, Tank and the Bangas captivate audiences with a rich mix of R&B, funk, soul, hip-hop, jazz, and rock. Tank's voice seamlessly traverses singing, rapping, and spoken word poetry, adding a layer of depth to their performances. They are celebrated for their originality and ability to surprise audiences.
In 2024, the band released a 3-part album "The Heart, The Mind, The Soul," emphasizing Tank's poetry and spoken word. They continue to perform at major festivals and venues, keeping the energy of New Orleans music alive and current.
Tank and the Bangas are credited with injecting fresh energy and innovation into the New Orleans music scene, continuously praised by critics and fellow musicians for their inventive spirit and live performances. Their collaborations include artists like Robert Glasper, Big Freedia, and Trombone Shorty, further solidifying their diverse and influential place in the music industry.
Tank and the Bangas have swiftly progressed from being local favorites to internationally acclaimed artists, recognized for their genre-defying sound and dynamic live shows. Their success captures the essence of a new generation of New Orleans musicians, seamlessly blending the city's rich musical heritage with contemporary innovations.
