Tank and the Bangas is an American musical group hailing from the vibrant and culturally rich city of New Orleans, Louisiana. Since their formation in 2011, after meeting at the Liberation Lounge open mic at Blackstar Cafe and Books, the band has become renowned for their eclectic blend of genres and dynamic live performances. The core members of the band include Tarriona "Tank" Ball on lead vocals and poetry, Joshua Johnson on drums, Norman Spence playing keyboards and bass, and Albert Allenback providing the melodic lines of the alto saxophone and flute.
Tank and the Bangas' music is a rich tapestry that defies easy categorization, weaving elements of R&B, soul, hip-hop, jazz, and spoken word poetry into a seamless blend. Deeply influenced by New Orleans' musical culture, their sound captures the intimate energy of open mic nights and combines it with the infectious spirit of the city's "jazzerific" atmosphere. The band's approach to songwriting often starts with Tank's poetic inspiration, with her words and melodies guiding the band's arrangements.
Tank and the Bangas' journey from local open mic nights to international acclaim is marked by several notable achievements:
Their standing as innovative musicians is further reflected in their numerous collaborations with artists such as Jacob Collier, Samara Joy, and Jill Scott, emphasizing their versatility and broad appeal.
Tank and the Bangas boast an impressive discography that reflects their growth and experimentation:
Their latest work, "The Heart, The Mind, The Soul," released in 2024, showcases their continued evolution as artists, with an expanded vinyl edition offering bonus content for their fans.
Despite their expanding global following, Tank and the Bangas remain deeply connected to their New Orleans origins, crediting the city's creative freedom as a pivotal influence on their music. They liken New Orleans to a "lawless place for creatives," nurturing an environment where their eclectic sound could flourish. The COVID-19 pandemic, while challenging, provided a period of reflection and refinement, allowing the band to hone their songwriting and production skills, potentially heralding a new creative chapter.
Tank and the Bangas continue to be one of the most innovative and exciting acts to emerge from New Orleans, captivating audiences with their unique blend of music genres, poetic depth, and electrifying performances.
Want to know when Tank And The Bangas joins Holican?
Subscribe to get notified when this artist claims their official page and starts sharing content.