The Budos Band finally made their way to southern California last week (for the first time that I’m aware of). This afro-funky Staten Island-based group have been on my radar for a few years now, since I heard their self-titled debut album. The Budos Band creates a unique sound with signature horns, guitars, keys and percussion. This show featured ten players on stage (whoa!), with half of them comprising their percussion engine. The bongos, drums and shakers of all shapes and sizes supported the band, a constant force churning away.
     The high number of band members conveyed a unique stage presence. At times it seemed like all ten guys were swaying with the beat in sync, on the fly, without even looking at each other, the epitome of chill. Such harmony was also found in the music. They were tight, on point, slammin’ it home.
     While I immensely enjoyed the Budos’ bad ass stage presence, especially bass player Daniel Foder, certain aspects of the evening were slightly amateurish. I’m talking about a few cocky comments spouted out by baritone sax player, and apparent band leader, Jared Tankel. His horn skills definitely give him the right to be a little cocky, but his "fuck yeah thanks for fuckin’ comin’ out" and "you love this shit" type of rapport between songs threw me off a bit. But I was able to laugh it off and yell back a "yeah-yuh" to encourage more.
     Then there were the horns. The aforementioned Tankel on bari-sax was joined by trumpeter Andrew Greene. Both are quite accomplished musicians and held nothing back in delivering stellar performances. They provide what I think of first when I think of the Budos Band . . . horns. Give a listen and check them out if they come to your neighborhood:

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     Boogaloo Assassins opened up with their phenomenal boogaloo sounds to set the crowd on fire. This Latin influenced (Puerto Rican and Cuban) style of music originated in New York City and can often be heard on the streets of Spanish Harlem.